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Hat Trick: Palm University: Book Three
They’re best friends. Teammates. They’re each other’s person.
And I’m, well… me. Dominic Foster and Emerson Baker are Palm University’s star hockey players. They’re in the prime of their life, and I’m in mine. I’m creating a life for myself, one that I’m proud of. And yet, I see it everywhere I look. Love. I see it in my parents, and in my brother and his new husband. A kind of love so loud I find myself wanting it with everything in me, and I refuse to settle for less. Which is why they’re my new addiction. Both of them. Together. What started as a casual fling is quickly starting to feel like it could be more. But is it what I need? Is what they have to offer me, what I deserve? Will I even get a chance to decide before one of them blows the whistle on this entire thing?
Liliana Campos is… everything. She’s a tornado of chaos and sass, with a fire burning so bright inside of her she could do anything, have anyone she sets her sights on. She snuck up on both of us when we weren’t looking. She wasn’t part of the plan. And yet, she feels like she was always meant to be here. She has the power to bring both of us to our knees. It’s always been the two of us, but now, we have to decide if what the three of us are building together is something we should run from or hold on to. Because if one of us is done, all three of us are done. That’s the rule.
The real question is, are rules meant to be broken, or…
Will we get our own Hat Trick?
And I’m, well… me. Dominic Foster and Emerson Baker are Palm University’s star hockey players. They’re in the prime of their life, and I’m in mine. I’m creating a life for myself, one that I’m proud of. And yet, I see it everywhere I look. Love. I see it in my parents, and in my brother and his new husband. A kind of love so loud I find myself wanting it with everything in me, and I refuse to settle for less. Which is why they’re my new addiction. Both of them. Together. What started as a casual fling is quickly starting to feel like it could be more. But is it what I need? Is what they have to offer me, what I deserve? Will I even get a chance to decide before one of them blows the whistle on this entire thing?
Liliana Campos is… everything. She’s a tornado of chaos and sass, with a fire burning so bright inside of her she could do anything, have anyone she sets her sights on. She snuck up on both of us when we weren’t looking. She wasn’t part of the plan. And yet, she feels like she was always meant to be here. She has the power to bring both of us to our knees. It’s always been the two of us, but now, we have to decide if what the three of us are building together is something we should run from or hold on to. Because if one of us is done, all three of us are done. That’s the rule.
The real question is, are rules meant to be broken, or…
Will we get our own Hat Trick?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2025
19 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
November 17, 2025
I’m not specifically sure how I feel about this. Books one and two I somehow loved and devoured even though I thought they were objectively bad lolol. This one was also kind of bad but I didn’t love and devour it the same way. The throuple and smut scenes were really good and hot. I liked all the characters.
But I feel like the authors think their reader base is stupid because they over explained things.
Something would be implied and instead of trusting that the reader knows how to read between the lines and decode the implied parts- they would break the fourth wall to have it explained like they think their readers are idiots. For example after it’s implied that the two dudes have more than friendship going on, one breaks the fourth wall to say “in case you didn’t pick up on this- ya we’re fucking”. Another time they said a hockey player who has the last name Evan’s and looks like Chris Evan’s is nicknamed cap. Instead of just leaving that there they again break the fourth wall to dumb it down for the reader “do you get it- Chris Evan’s played captain america, and captain America is called cap” like ya authors we get it. It’s almost insulting they felt their readers base was too stupid to put that together on their own.
And I hate the way authors casually have their characters punch each other. Like if your partner ever punches you, walk away don’t keep dating them. Especially when they say “ya you deserved that” this book had two authors so I imagine them to say “hey let’s sprinkle in some third act domestic violence, wouldn’t that be lovely?” Well I don’t find it lovely. Anyway I won’t be continuing the series. I did weirdly enjoy the first two books though.
But I feel like the authors think their reader base is stupid because they over explained things.
Something would be implied and instead of trusting that the reader knows how to read between the lines and decode the implied parts- they would break the fourth wall to have it explained like they think their readers are idiots. For example after it’s implied that the two dudes have more than friendship going on, one breaks the fourth wall to say “in case you didn’t pick up on this- ya we’re fucking”. Another time they said a hockey player who has the last name Evan’s and looks like Chris Evan’s is nicknamed cap. Instead of just leaving that there they again break the fourth wall to dumb it down for the reader “do you get it- Chris Evan’s played captain america, and captain America is called cap” like ya authors we get it. It’s almost insulting they felt their readers base was too stupid to put that together on their own.
And I hate the way authors casually have their characters punch each other. Like if your partner ever punches you, walk away don’t keep dating them. Especially when they say “ya you deserved that” this book had two authors so I imagine them to say “hey let’s sprinkle in some third act domestic violence, wouldn’t that be lovely?” Well I don’t find it lovely. Anyway I won’t be continuing the series. I did weirdly enjoy the first two books though.
August 16, 2025
I literally gobbled this book up in less than a day and absolutely loved our 3 main characters! That night in Turks & Caicos was HOT and I was so here for it! But I love how much they all care for each other, even if they say they were only ‘having fun’. This Palm University series is literally one of my faves for some feel good moments and delicious spice! Although we definitely get some heavier moments in this as well and I love the mental health representation. And I’m already excited for the next book after those little easter eggs!!
What to expect:
🌴MMF
🏒Bisexual Rep
🌴Hockey Romance
🏒Found Family
🌴Vöyeurism
🏒Exhïbitiönism
🌴“Just for fun”
🏒Mental Health Rep
Thank you so much to Tilly Ridge & S.R. Clark, as well and Luna Literary, for the ARC of this book! All opinions are my own.
What to expect:
🌴MMF
🏒Bisexual Rep
🌴Hockey Romance
🏒Found Family
🌴Vöyeurism
🏒Exhïbitiönism
🌴“Just for fun”
🏒Mental Health Rep
Thank you so much to Tilly Ridge & S.R. Clark, as well and Luna Literary, for the ARC of this book! All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2025
A wedding in Turks and Caicos turned into “just a little fun” between teammates and best friends Dom and Emerson with the grooms new sister in law Lillian . When they get back to Palm University will they keep the fun going or will it turn into something more ?
Tilly and SR hit this out of the park!! If you like MMF this is for you !!
Tilly and SR hit this out of the park!! If you like MMF this is for you !!
August 25, 2025
4.5 ☆
boots the house down
UPDATED -
What an absolute delight this book was. I have been looking forward to this one for a while as the Palm University series has been nothing short of steamy masterpiece throughout and dare I say, it just got better. I feel like this book has taken a little bit of a turn from the others, for one thing we have a thruple! but with that comes the addition of an extra relationship dynamic. This book felt like it was more about the people than their circumstances.
Now, we already know all of our MC’s, Liliana, Rocky’s sister from book one and Emerson is Jax’s brother from book two. We are aware of Domanic but haven’t really had a chance to dive into his personality much yet. Even before I started I was over eager to jump into this book knowing we had these characters waiting for us. Liliana is an absolute treat, she is the turbulence and the stability that Rocky needed to be able to be himself in book one, and this definitely feed into all other aspects of her life. She is carefree and wakes up every day to genuinely live it. Emerson on the other hand initially seemed like a relative carbon copy of Jax, trustworthy, affable and level headed getting to jump into his sterner side was definitely a treat, seeing where he truly deviated from his brother was where it really got interesting.
Now we have Dominic, You could say one of Emersons defining characteristics prior to this book was his attachment to Dom. If Emerson is mentioned, Dom is there. They play hockey together, they hang out with each other constantly and its pretty early on in this book that we learn that they do truly do everything together, even if they are still labelling themselves as ‘friends’. Dominics personality was an infectious surprise. He is a mad man, a golden retriever if you will. He is excitable, loveable and all of the above, even if he does have a gloomy cloud hanging over his head.
The connection’s here being - Dom and Emerson are on the hockey team together and are besties for life. They hook up but see other people, the rule being they don’t discuss their other partners. It just so happens that the other partner happens to be Liliana, for both of them but the other one doesn’t know. Liliana does in fact know but the sneaky little bitch she is she’s having her cake and eating it to all up until a perfectly timed last minute round of the flu (knocking out some guests) lands Dom at Rocky and Clays destination wedding, along with planned guests Liliana and Emerson and Liliana’s sneaky little activities all come out when she is standing at the altar next to her brother. This moment is so good by the way, the reveal was great. Could not have been better. Liliana’s decent into impending doom was glorious .
This is to say, things progress. I am dedicated to both of these authors now to the point where I have a full faith that the spicy scenes are going to be outstanding and to say the least, they were. I have no notes. Just read the book, trust me, the whole series even. The dynamic between the three of them is invigorating and there is also love that there is time carved out for their individual relationships, not everything has to be done as a group. I just love these three characters as people when it comes down to it, they’re all great. They’re people you want to be friends with.
On that note, we need to talk about Gigi. If I was excited for this book, I can’t even begin to describe how I feel about book four. Can I have it maybe, right now? Please? Again, I just love her so much. She has been through so much, she has so much to deal with yet she still genuinely and deeply cares so much for those around her. She is invested in Lil and the boys. She is coming out of her shell with a fire. And Ford? We have had like one sentence out of him but let me tell you, it was a really good sentence. So polite... “S’cuse me, ma’am” I’m already gone.
In conclusion, can this series just go on maybe forever? One book a year until I’m like 50 isn’t too much to ask right, that’s only like 23 more books, right? We do have a little bit of a buckle in the third act but honestly the context of this one is the only thing I will accept. I know I’m being intentionally vague with this but trust me your heart will hurt but in the best way possible and it’s so they’re so much better off for it the end.
Thank you to C.S.Clark, Tilly Ridge and Luna Literary for providing me with an arc copy of this book so I was able to jump back into this universe. Let’s hope I don’t actually loose my mind before the next book.
boots the house down
UPDATED -
What an absolute delight this book was. I have been looking forward to this one for a while as the Palm University series has been nothing short of steamy masterpiece throughout and dare I say, it just got better. I feel like this book has taken a little bit of a turn from the others, for one thing we have a thruple! but with that comes the addition of an extra relationship dynamic. This book felt like it was more about the people than their circumstances.
Now, we already know all of our MC’s, Liliana, Rocky’s sister from book one and Emerson is Jax’s brother from book two. We are aware of Domanic but haven’t really had a chance to dive into his personality much yet. Even before I started I was over eager to jump into this book knowing we had these characters waiting for us. Liliana is an absolute treat, she is the turbulence and the stability that Rocky needed to be able to be himself in book one, and this definitely feed into all other aspects of her life. She is carefree and wakes up every day to genuinely live it. Emerson on the other hand initially seemed like a relative carbon copy of Jax, trustworthy, affable and level headed getting to jump into his sterner side was definitely a treat, seeing where he truly deviated from his brother was where it really got interesting.
Now we have Dominic, You could say one of Emersons defining characteristics prior to this book was his attachment to Dom. If Emerson is mentioned, Dom is there. They play hockey together, they hang out with each other constantly and its pretty early on in this book that we learn that they do truly do everything together, even if they are still labelling themselves as ‘friends’. Dominics personality was an infectious surprise. He is a mad man, a golden retriever if you will. He is excitable, loveable and all of the above, even if he does have a gloomy cloud hanging over his head.
The connection’s here being - Dom and Emerson are on the hockey team together and are besties for life. They hook up but see other people, the rule being they don’t discuss their other partners. It just so happens that the other partner happens to be Liliana, for both of them but the other one doesn’t know. Liliana does in fact know but the sneaky little bitch she is she’s having her cake and eating it to all up until a perfectly timed last minute round of the flu (knocking out some guests) lands Dom at Rocky and Clays destination wedding, along with planned guests Liliana and Emerson and Liliana’s sneaky little activities all come out when she is standing at the altar next to her brother. This moment is so good by the way, the reveal was great. Could not have been better. Liliana’s decent into impending doom was glorious .
This is to say, things progress. I am dedicated to both of these authors now to the point where I have a full faith that the spicy scenes are going to be outstanding and to say the least, they were. I have no notes. Just read the book, trust me, the whole series even. The dynamic between the three of them is invigorating and there is also love that there is time carved out for their individual relationships, not everything has to be done as a group. I just love these three characters as people when it comes down to it, they’re all great. They’re people you want to be friends with.
On that note, we need to talk about Gigi. If I was excited for this book, I can’t even begin to describe how I feel about book four. Can I have it maybe, right now? Please? Again, I just love her so much. She has been through so much, she has so much to deal with yet she still genuinely and deeply cares so much for those around her. She is invested in Lil and the boys. She is coming out of her shell with a fire. And Ford? We have had like one sentence out of him but let me tell you, it was a really good sentence. So polite... “S’cuse me, ma’am” I’m already gone.
In conclusion, can this series just go on maybe forever? One book a year until I’m like 50 isn’t too much to ask right, that’s only like 23 more books, right? We do have a little bit of a buckle in the third act but honestly the context of this one is the only thing I will accept. I know I’m being intentionally vague with this but trust me your heart will hurt but in the best way possible and it’s so they’re so much better off for it the end.
Thank you to C.S.Clark, Tilly Ridge and Luna Literary for providing me with an arc copy of this book so I was able to jump back into this universe. Let’s hope I don’t actually loose my mind before the next book.
August 26, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5
🏒 Hockey Romance
✨️ Voyeurism
🏒 MMF
✨️ Bi-Sexual Rep
🏒 Exhibitionism
✨️ Mental Health Rep
🏒 Found Family
✨️📚 ARC 📚 REVIEW✨️
Dominic, Emerson and Liliana were the trio that just worked. If you have ever wondered how does that work? This was them. Unknowingly, they came together to be the throuple that made waves everywhere they went together.
I truly loved their dynamic, and wondered how does it all work behind the scenes? That is a question I feel like so many other people ask, and I know that fiction doesn't always portray what really happens but it is always something I know people who aren't in this kind of relationship asks.
I truly appreciate that Tilly & SR included mental health representation within this book! Mental Health rep is such a huge thing that is needed in more books! Without our mental health we would be in a not so great place. I
also truly appreciate that they included family that was sooo inviting to their children's partners! There is nothing more refreshing than to see that someone's parents welcomes them no matter what!!!
I truly loved this book and can't wait to read the first 2 along with what comes next!!!
Thank you 🫶🏻 to Tilly Ridge & S.R. Clark and Valentine PR for the complimentary 📚 ARC 📚 copy. ✨️ All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary ✨️.
🌶️🌶️.5
🏒 Hockey Romance
✨️ Voyeurism
🏒 MMF
✨️ Bi-Sexual Rep
🏒 Exhibitionism
✨️ Mental Health Rep
🏒 Found Family
✨️📚 ARC 📚 REVIEW✨️
Dominic, Emerson and Liliana were the trio that just worked. If you have ever wondered how does that work? This was them. Unknowingly, they came together to be the throuple that made waves everywhere they went together.
I truly loved their dynamic, and wondered how does it all work behind the scenes? That is a question I feel like so many other people ask, and I know that fiction doesn't always portray what really happens but it is always something I know people who aren't in this kind of relationship asks.
I truly appreciate that Tilly & SR included mental health representation within this book! Mental Health rep is such a huge thing that is needed in more books! Without our mental health we would be in a not so great place. I
also truly appreciate that they included family that was sooo inviting to their children's partners! There is nothing more refreshing than to see that someone's parents welcomes them no matter what!!!
I truly loved this book and can't wait to read the first 2 along with what comes next!!!
Thank you 🫶🏻 to Tilly Ridge & S.R. Clark and Valentine PR for the complimentary 📚 ARC 📚 copy. ✨️ All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary ✨️.
September 2, 2025
ARC review
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
I didn’t realize this was part of an interconnected series, but it was still easy to follow as a standalone.
MMF + hockey is one of my favorite trope combinations, and this delivered both in a cute, somewhat steamy “why choose” package. It was a quick, easy read with great chemistry between Emerson, Dom, and Lilana—I really enjoyed them as a throuple.
The bit of drama sprinkled in was fine, and I get that some conflict was needed to move the story along. I did feel for Dom and the struggles he faced, but it all wrapped up nicely in the end.
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
I didn’t realize this was part of an interconnected series, but it was still easy to follow as a standalone.
MMF + hockey is one of my favorite trope combinations, and this delivered both in a cute, somewhat steamy “why choose” package. It was a quick, easy read with great chemistry between Emerson, Dom, and Lilana—I really enjoyed them as a throuple.
The bit of drama sprinkled in was fine, and I get that some conflict was needed to move the story along. I did feel for Dom and the struggles he faced, but it all wrapped up nicely in the end.
August 21, 2025
Not My Hat Trick, But Still a Goal for Others
Dedication:
For the women who are learning to embrace their softness while remaining strong, who love themselves as much as they love others, and who will stand tall and kick down anything in their way while still being afraid… this one’s for you. Be strong. Be courageous. Be resilient. And for being such a good girl… here’s a hockey player sandwich. -S.R. Clark
For the ones that went right into your “adult job” while everyone else was having fun in college…I hope you can see a little of yourself in Liliana. -Tilly Ridge
Liliana (FMC): Esthetician • Sassy & Strong • Fierce • Total Chaos Monster • Afraid of Commitment •
Emerson (MMC): Hockey Defenseman • Major: Audio Engineering • €rotic Book Narrator • Grumpy & Dominate
Dominic (MMC): Hockey Goalie • Golden Retriever • Soft Heart • Scared of Attachment •
Tropes:
🏒 MMF
🧖🏼♀️ Best Friends to Lovers
🥅 College Romance
🏒 Hockey
🧖🏼♀️ Bi Rep
🥅 “Just For Fun”
🏒 Found Family
🧖🏼♀️ Mental Health Rep
🥅 Text Conversations
Rating: 🌴🌴🌴 (3⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (praise, dirty talk, 👅, face seat, br33ding, begging, 🍑 play, 💦 play, DVP, toys as teammates, degrade, restraints, vöyeǔrísm, exhíbítiönişm)
T/W: single parent (on page), parental death (referenced), heart attack (referenced), alcohol consumption (on page), afraid of commitment (referenced), violence (on page), grief (referenced), anxiety attack (on page), unplanned pregnancy (referenced), postpartum (referenced), absentee baby daddy (referenced)
On paper, this book should’ve been a power play: two hot hockey besties who are also secretly together, plus Liliana sliding into their lives like a puck on fresh ice. The chemistry was explosive and the spice was definitely game-winning.
But here’s the thing—I just couldn’t get into it. Everyone else seems to be loving this MMF romance, and I get why: quick pacing, banter that scores, and a thruple dynamic that keeps things messy in the best way. For me, though, it felt like sitting through overtime with no goal in sight.
If you’re looking for a bingeable, steamy, emotional romance that’s equal parts chaos and heart, this one might be your perfect hat trick. For me? I’m still in the penalty box on this book.
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
Dedication:
For the women who are learning to embrace their softness while remaining strong, who love themselves as much as they love others, and who will stand tall and kick down anything in their way while still being afraid… this one’s for you. Be strong. Be courageous. Be resilient. And for being such a good girl… here’s a hockey player sandwich. -S.R. Clark
For the ones that went right into your “adult job” while everyone else was having fun in college…I hope you can see a little of yourself in Liliana. -Tilly Ridge
Liliana (FMC): Esthetician • Sassy & Strong • Fierce • Total Chaos Monster • Afraid of Commitment •
Emerson (MMC): Hockey Defenseman • Major: Audio Engineering • €rotic Book Narrator • Grumpy & Dominate
Dominic (MMC): Hockey Goalie • Golden Retriever • Soft Heart • Scared of Attachment •
Tropes:
🏒 MMF
🧖🏼♀️ Best Friends to Lovers
🥅 College Romance
🏒 Hockey
🧖🏼♀️ Bi Rep
🥅 “Just For Fun”
🏒 Found Family
🧖🏼♀️ Mental Health Rep
🥅 Text Conversations
Rating: 🌴🌴🌴 (3⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (praise, dirty talk, 👅, face seat, br33ding, begging, 🍑 play, 💦 play, DVP, toys as teammates, degrade, restraints, vöyeǔrísm, exhíbítiönişm)
T/W: single parent (on page), parental death (referenced), heart attack (referenced), alcohol consumption (on page), afraid of commitment (referenced), violence (on page), grief (referenced), anxiety attack (on page), unplanned pregnancy (referenced), postpartum (referenced), absentee baby daddy (referenced)
On paper, this book should’ve been a power play: two hot hockey besties who are also secretly together, plus Liliana sliding into their lives like a puck on fresh ice. The chemistry was explosive and the spice was definitely game-winning.
But here’s the thing—I just couldn’t get into it. Everyone else seems to be loving this MMF romance, and I get why: quick pacing, banter that scores, and a thruple dynamic that keeps things messy in the best way. For me, though, it felt like sitting through overtime with no goal in sight.
If you’re looking for a bingeable, steamy, emotional romance that’s equal parts chaos and heart, this one might be your perfect hat trick. For me? I’m still in the penalty box on this book.
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
August 8, 2025
While I was new to the Palm University series, I never once felt lost or like I was missing part of the story as I read this book. As the 3 book in an interconnected standalone series, I knew I didn’t need to read the others to know what was happening between Emerson, Dominic, and Liliana, and found it easy to orient myself to this world and these characters. And let’s be honest, these characters are easy to fall in love with.
I loved the camaraderie, banter, and yearning between these three and could not imagine them with anyone else! Lil is a take no shit characters who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after it. She doesn’t need a partner to feel complete, but after witnessing her parents and her brother find love with their respective best friends, she yearns for the same.
Insert Emerson and Dominic, who have been teammates and best friends with benefits for several years, a both fell head over heels in love with Liliana separately before even testing the waters of a potential throuple situation. Can they admit their feelings for her, as well as each other, or will they let the “rules” get the best of them?
The way these characters showed each other love and true acceptance was beautiful to witness. And let’s be honest, sometimes a good ass kicking is necessary for true love to bloom.
I loved the camaraderie, banter, and yearning between these three and could not imagine them with anyone else! Lil is a take no shit characters who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after it. She doesn’t need a partner to feel complete, but after witnessing her parents and her brother find love with their respective best friends, she yearns for the same.
Insert Emerson and Dominic, who have been teammates and best friends with benefits for several years, a both fell head over heels in love with Liliana separately before even testing the waters of a potential throuple situation. Can they admit their feelings for her, as well as each other, or will they let the “rules” get the best of them?
The way these characters showed each other love and true acceptance was beautiful to witness. And let’s be honest, sometimes a good ass kicking is necessary for true love to bloom.
August 21, 2025
The way I ate this up soo quick!!! I could not put them one down! You have 2 hot hockey players, you have a queen of an FC and you have vacation spicy time??? SIGN ME THE F UP!!!!
This book was not only such a fun read but I could literally feel the connection between the characters and their love for each other!!
Dom oh my sweet baby Dom he was such an amazing guy and afraid of love but then when Lil and Emerson showed him what love was like it was BEAUTIFUL!!
Emerson oh my heavennnnnsss he is the most selfless person always putting people before him and wanting you fix everything for everyone!! I loved him so much! Also his spicy mouth was HOTTTTTT!!
Sweet Sassy Lil!! She is knew what she wanted and she was never afraid to show her worth! We love a queen!! Also the times she took what she wanted (in the bedroom) umm helloooo I need a breathing machineeee!!
If you are looking for an amazing why choose MMF hockey romance look no further!!
5/5 stars!
This book was not only such a fun read but I could literally feel the connection between the characters and their love for each other!!
Dom oh my sweet baby Dom he was such an amazing guy and afraid of love but then when Lil and Emerson showed him what love was like it was BEAUTIFUL!!
Emerson oh my heavennnnnsss he is the most selfless person always putting people before him and wanting you fix everything for everyone!! I loved him so much! Also his spicy mouth was HOTTTTTT!!
Sweet Sassy Lil!! She is knew what she wanted and she was never afraid to show her worth! We love a queen!! Also the times she took what she wanted (in the bedroom) umm helloooo I need a breathing machineeee!!
If you are looking for an amazing why choose MMF hockey romance look no further!!
5/5 stars!
August 28, 2025
Want a really sweet and spicy why choose romance where the hockey boyfriend’s boyfriend and the FMC is an independent badass? The Hat Trick is for you. Lilliana is having “fun” with two hockey players. They are each other’s hookups. Emerson and Dominic are best friends but they don’t know that they are both having “fun” with the same girl. When they all end up at a destination wedding, secrets come out and things get steamy real quick. After a wild wedding weekend these three will have to decide how to navigate their new situation. Will they be able to continue or will feelings get in the way?
The Hat Trick was so sweet and a heartwarming story. It was a fast read and the relationships between each character are unique and special in their own way. It’s a really beautiful story.
The Hat Trick was so sweet and a heartwarming story. It was a fast read and the relationships between each character are unique and special in their own way. It’s a really beautiful story.
August 18, 2025
Liliana, Emerson, + Dominic
-mmf whychoose
-college sports romance
-hockey players
-just for fun
-exhibition/voyeurism
-found family
these three were woven so perfectly together & completely each other in the most perfect way you couldn’t help but root for them all from the very beginning! i love how spicy this series had been while also being filled with the perfect plots & emotions! it makes it the perfect book to get anyone out of a funk!!
-mmf whychoose
-college sports romance
-hockey players
-just for fun
-exhibition/voyeurism
-found family
these three were woven so perfectly together & completely each other in the most perfect way you couldn’t help but root for them all from the very beginning! i love how spicy this series had been while also being filled with the perfect plots & emotions! it makes it the perfect book to get anyone out of a funk!!
August 21, 2025
This one had me kicking my feet and giggling like a school girl!! I loved Emerson, Dominic and Lilliana so much! Absolutely meant to be. Tilly and SR never disappoint me I can’t wait to get my physical copy of this one to finish out my collection. And I gotta say I think Turks and Cacos was one of my fav parts of the book even though I loved the entirety😍
August 17, 2025
From the very first page, I was hooked on Hat Trick. I didn’t realize it at first, but this book quickly became one of my top reads of the year! The dynamic between Liliana, Dominic, and Emerson is absolutely captivating, and watching them fall in love with each other felt both exciting and refreshing. The emotional maturity of these characters is a breath of fresh air—there’s none of the unnecessary back and forth drama that slows down relationships in romance novels. Instead, we’re treated to a beautiful, heartwarming exploration of love in its many forms!
What stood out to me most was how easy it was to jump into this world, even though I was new to the Palm University series. As this is the third book in an interconnected standalone series, I had no trouble getting familiar with the story. Tilly Ridge and S. R. Clark did a wonderful job of making sure you don’t feel lost, while still delivering a full and engaging experience. And honestly? These characters are impossible not to fall in love with!
The relationships, banter, and deep yearning between Liliana, Dominic, and Emerson was so well done. Liliana is a force of nature— she’s independent, confident, and unapologetically herself. She doesn’t need a partner to feel complete, but after witnessing the love her family members have with their significant others, she begins to long for something similar. Enter Dominic and Emerson, two best friends and teammates who have been involved with each other for years but have fallen separately in love with Liliana before even considering the idea of all being together. The tension between them is undeniable, and watching them navigate their feelings, both for Liliana and for each other is the absolute best part of the story, (you truly feel a part of their story).
What really makes this book shine the most for me is the emotional depth. The way these characters show love, vulnerability, and acceptance is beautiful. There are moments in this story, especially with Dominic, where my heart just aches with affection for him. It’s rare when a character feels so real that you wish you could reach through the pages and offer them a hug. That’s the kind of connection this book delivers—authentic, powerful, and truly moving.
The chemistry between the trio is electric! It’s not just the physical attraction (though, trust me, that’s there too), but the emotional connection that is so powerful it practically leaps off the page. The energy between them is magnetic, and I couldn’t get enough of it. The relationship evolves in a way that’s both exciting and touching, and the emotional resonance is something that stayed with me long after I finished reading.
The writing flows effortlessly, making it hard to stop reading. I finished this book much quicker than I wanted to, simply because I was so engrossed in their journey. The characters’ growth throughout the story is another strength, both Dominic and Emerson evolve emotionally in ways that make their connection to Liliana even more passionate. Their bond is deep, and it’s clear that they are just as committed to each other emotionally as they are physically.
Overall, Hat Trick is an emotional rollercoaster filled with tension, romance, and heartfelt moments that will have you smiling one minute and wiping away tears the next. If you’re looking for a sweet, funny, and emotionally charged romance, this book is an absolute gem.
Thank you to S.R. Clark, Tilly Ridge, and Luna Literary for the ARC. I can’t wait for others to experience this phenomenal book and dive into the rest of the Palm University series!
What stood out to me most was how easy it was to jump into this world, even though I was new to the Palm University series. As this is the third book in an interconnected standalone series, I had no trouble getting familiar with the story. Tilly Ridge and S. R. Clark did a wonderful job of making sure you don’t feel lost, while still delivering a full and engaging experience. And honestly? These characters are impossible not to fall in love with!
The relationships, banter, and deep yearning between Liliana, Dominic, and Emerson was so well done. Liliana is a force of nature— she’s independent, confident, and unapologetically herself. She doesn’t need a partner to feel complete, but after witnessing the love her family members have with their significant others, she begins to long for something similar. Enter Dominic and Emerson, two best friends and teammates who have been involved with each other for years but have fallen separately in love with Liliana before even considering the idea of all being together. The tension between them is undeniable, and watching them navigate their feelings, both for Liliana and for each other is the absolute best part of the story, (you truly feel a part of their story).
What really makes this book shine the most for me is the emotional depth. The way these characters show love, vulnerability, and acceptance is beautiful. There are moments in this story, especially with Dominic, where my heart just aches with affection for him. It’s rare when a character feels so real that you wish you could reach through the pages and offer them a hug. That’s the kind of connection this book delivers—authentic, powerful, and truly moving.
The chemistry between the trio is electric! It’s not just the physical attraction (though, trust me, that’s there too), but the emotional connection that is so powerful it practically leaps off the page. The energy between them is magnetic, and I couldn’t get enough of it. The relationship evolves in a way that’s both exciting and touching, and the emotional resonance is something that stayed with me long after I finished reading.
The writing flows effortlessly, making it hard to stop reading. I finished this book much quicker than I wanted to, simply because I was so engrossed in their journey. The characters’ growth throughout the story is another strength, both Dominic and Emerson evolve emotionally in ways that make their connection to Liliana even more passionate. Their bond is deep, and it’s clear that they are just as committed to each other emotionally as they are physically.
Overall, Hat Trick is an emotional rollercoaster filled with tension, romance, and heartfelt moments that will have you smiling one minute and wiping away tears the next. If you’re looking for a sweet, funny, and emotionally charged romance, this book is an absolute gem.
Thank you to S.R. Clark, Tilly Ridge, and Luna Literary for the ARC. I can’t wait for others to experience this phenomenal book and dive into the rest of the Palm University series!
September 5, 2025
ARC review for Hat Trick by S.R. Clark and Tilly Ridge
Thanks to Sierra, Tilly, and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
What to expect: MMF, forbidden romance, sports romance, bi-sexual/poly rep, friends to lovers, found family, mental health rep, just for fun
TW/CW: the authors include a pretty comprehensive list at the beginning of the book
Review: 4/5
Was excited to come back to Palm University for this enticing throuple!!
Things I liked:
- I was so excited for the dynamic in Emerson, Dom, and Lil's relationship! It was so fun seeing how the three of them jived together in their relationship. From the unexpected surprise for Dom and Emerson to the roles they took on in the bedroom, it was fun to see them all grow together.
- The spice, baybeee! I knew the spice would probably hit really good because of the spice we got in books one and two and now you're adding a third person to the mix. But I was not prepared for just how spicy we got. It was deliciously written. The scene after the game? Hot damn. You're gonna need a cold shower for that one.
- The mental health rep for Dom was great. I can sympathize with his struggles but his growth for learning to move on was the most important part. Honestly, if grief from parental loss is something you struggle with, I wouldn't use that as a reason to shy away from this book. The event itself was in the past, off page and while, yes, it sucks, following along on Dom's healing journey was almost cathartic.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- I didn't quite understand Lil's motivations in her general fear of commitment. Lil grew up with a great example of what love should look like and she's seen that same love blossom between Clay and Rocky. It wasn't like she's had crappy examples of love growing up or some life-altering heartbreak. She has literally been surrounded by love yet, for some reason, feels she doesn't deserve it? I didn't get that connection.
- I was a little bummed we didn't get to see more of the partners revealing their relationship to their family. Yes, we get the blessings from the parents on page. And, while Rocky has obviously come to conclusions of what they got up to, he didn't necessarily know at the time it was becoming serious. Not that Rocky wouldn't have ultimately been fully supportive of his sister in the end but I was looking forward to a little macho brother time from Rocky where he threatened Dom and Emerson (out of love, of course) or seeing golden retriever Clay talk grumpy gills Rocky off the ledge. I just think it would have been a really fun opportunity for the story.
If you read and enjoyed other books of this series or if any of these tropes trip your trigger, this will likely be an enjoyable read for you. As soon as we met Gigi and then Ford, I knew we'd be getting their book next and I, for one, cannot wait to meet them!
Thanks to Sierra, Tilly, and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
What to expect: MMF, forbidden romance, sports romance, bi-sexual/poly rep, friends to lovers, found family, mental health rep, just for fun
TW/CW: the authors include a pretty comprehensive list at the beginning of the book
Review: 4/5
Was excited to come back to Palm University for this enticing throuple!!
Things I liked:
- I was so excited for the dynamic in Emerson, Dom, and Lil's relationship! It was so fun seeing how the three of them jived together in their relationship. From the unexpected surprise for Dom and Emerson to the roles they took on in the bedroom, it was fun to see them all grow together.
- The spice, baybeee! I knew the spice would probably hit really good because of the spice we got in books one and two and now you're adding a third person to the mix. But I was not prepared for just how spicy we got. It was deliciously written. The scene after the game? Hot damn. You're gonna need a cold shower for that one.
- The mental health rep for Dom was great. I can sympathize with his struggles but his growth for learning to move on was the most important part. Honestly, if grief from parental loss is something you struggle with, I wouldn't use that as a reason to shy away from this book. The event itself was in the past, off page and while, yes, it sucks, following along on Dom's healing journey was almost cathartic.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- I didn't quite understand Lil's motivations in her general fear of commitment. Lil grew up with a great example of what love should look like and she's seen that same love blossom between Clay and Rocky. It wasn't like she's had crappy examples of love growing up or some life-altering heartbreak. She has literally been surrounded by love yet, for some reason, feels she doesn't deserve it? I didn't get that connection.
- I was a little bummed we didn't get to see more of the partners revealing their relationship to their family. Yes, we get the blessings from the parents on page. And, while Rocky has obviously come to conclusions of what they got up to, he didn't necessarily know at the time it was becoming serious. Not that Rocky wouldn't have ultimately been fully supportive of his sister in the end but I was looking forward to a little macho brother time from Rocky where he threatened Dom and Emerson (out of love, of course) or seeing golden retriever Clay talk grumpy gills Rocky off the ledge. I just think it would have been a really fun opportunity for the story.
If you read and enjoyed other books of this series or if any of these tropes trip your trigger, this will likely be an enjoyable read for you. As soon as we met Gigi and then Ford, I knew we'd be getting their book next and I, for one, cannot wait to meet them!
August 30, 2025
Rating: 3 of 5
Spice: 3 of 5
Angst: 1.5 of 5
Read if:
- You are here for the idea of being in the middle of a best-friend sandwich (with bonus points for them being athletes).
- You want something bingeable and almost completely angst free (at least from the relationship standpoint - there is a bit of a third act breakup, but not due to outside forces putting pressure on the relationship).
- You love quick pacing, witty banter, and actual conversations about throuple dynamics that leave you feeling like the trio might work out beyond the final page.
Skip if:
- You need the relationship or “get-together” build up in a story. This one drops you right into the action with each side of the triangle as an already established pair.
- You don’t like characters with heaps of emotional baggage. While not everyone is struggling here, the characters that do, do in a heavy way.
- You are sensitive to triggers like parental death and survivor’s guilt. This is a major contributor to the conflict, and while it was referenced a few times in the rising action, when it finally blows up, it does so in a way that took me a bit by surprise. If you aren’t ready for it, and this is something you struggle with, it might end up feeling like a lot all at once.
By the tropes, this one should have been a smash for me. Pretty much everything in the list is right there in my top ten. Instead… it just didn’t quite hit – though I don’t know if I could really tell you exactly why. Maybe I just didn’t completely vibe with the trio. Maybe this was just not the book that I needed right now. Maybe I am just finally starting to age out of the college vibe (though I seriously hope that isn’t the case). No matter what it is, while I did enjoy it, it just wasn’t one that was going to leave a lasting impression. For someone else, though, I could easily see this being in their top reads of the year. All of the “stuff” is there, but it just wasn’t quite right for me.
I will say, I did enjoy the dynamics between the trio – especially the relationship between Dominic and Emerson. Maybe I just really love codependency, but between these two it really felt like it made sense and fit.
In this one, you meet the characters for book four and I am really interested. I enjoyed the writing well enough to want to keep going in the series when the next one comes out, even if this installment just wasn’t completely it for me.
Spice: 3 of 5
Angst: 1.5 of 5
Read if:
- You are here for the idea of being in the middle of a best-friend sandwich (with bonus points for them being athletes).
- You want something bingeable and almost completely angst free (at least from the relationship standpoint - there is a bit of a third act breakup, but not due to outside forces putting pressure on the relationship).
- You love quick pacing, witty banter, and actual conversations about throuple dynamics that leave you feeling like the trio might work out beyond the final page.
Skip if:
- You need the relationship or “get-together” build up in a story. This one drops you right into the action with each side of the triangle as an already established pair.
- You don’t like characters with heaps of emotional baggage. While not everyone is struggling here, the characters that do, do in a heavy way.
- You are sensitive to triggers like parental death and survivor’s guilt. This is a major contributor to the conflict, and while it was referenced a few times in the rising action, when it finally blows up, it does so in a way that took me a bit by surprise. If you aren’t ready for it, and this is something you struggle with, it might end up feeling like a lot all at once.
By the tropes, this one should have been a smash for me. Pretty much everything in the list is right there in my top ten. Instead… it just didn’t quite hit – though I don’t know if I could really tell you exactly why. Maybe I just didn’t completely vibe with the trio. Maybe this was just not the book that I needed right now. Maybe I am just finally starting to age out of the college vibe (though I seriously hope that isn’t the case). No matter what it is, while I did enjoy it, it just wasn’t one that was going to leave a lasting impression. For someone else, though, I could easily see this being in their top reads of the year. All of the “stuff” is there, but it just wasn’t quite right for me.
I will say, I did enjoy the dynamics between the trio – especially the relationship between Dominic and Emerson. Maybe I just really love codependency, but between these two it really felt like it made sense and fit.
In this one, you meet the characters for book four and I am really interested. I enjoyed the writing well enough to want to keep going in the series when the next one comes out, even if this installment just wasn’t completely it for me.
August 25, 2025
Book 3 in the Palm University series was given to me as an ARC and I was hooked from the very beginning. I recommend reading the series in order so that character dynamics and foundations can be set. It is an interconnected stand-alone series. For the full experience – read them all! I devoured this series. It was an easy read and the characters and their relationships are well developed.
All it took was one vacation to change Lilianna, Emerson, and Dominic forever. The love and support that this throuple has for each other is felt from chapter one. The friendships were already built on a steady foundation, which allowed love to flourish between them effortlessly. This story may be unconventional to some, but the bond that forms between these three is beautifully written. By the middle of the book, I was back pedaling my reading speed because I did not want this story to end. I knew there were no additional books in the series to binge read and I did not want to see it end yet.
The third act break up was tearing me apart because you felt how much they loved each other throughout the whole book. There were a few times that I felt emotional as the characters were struggling. I was not expecting that at all. If you have ever experienced a profound loss like the one in this story you know how Dominic feels. The grief was so relatable and accurately described. The conversation that Dom had with his mother at the end of the book regarding his fathers unexpected death had me wiping the tears away. I FELT that! The things she said to him rang so true.
I knew that the fearsome threesome would put in the work for each other at the end of the book. You can’t love someone out loud like that and then give up so easily. They were all going to find their way back together. I had never read anything by these authors before and now I cannot wait for the next book to be released. I hope Gigi gets her own story and that was hinted at the very end. I am not sure how 4 books will be enough in this series, but we will have to wait and see how the series wraps up!
All it took was one vacation to change Lilianna, Emerson, and Dominic forever. The love and support that this throuple has for each other is felt from chapter one. The friendships were already built on a steady foundation, which allowed love to flourish between them effortlessly. This story may be unconventional to some, but the bond that forms between these three is beautifully written. By the middle of the book, I was back pedaling my reading speed because I did not want this story to end. I knew there were no additional books in the series to binge read and I did not want to see it end yet.
The third act break up was tearing me apart because you felt how much they loved each other throughout the whole book. There were a few times that I felt emotional as the characters were struggling. I was not expecting that at all. If you have ever experienced a profound loss like the one in this story you know how Dominic feels. The grief was so relatable and accurately described. The conversation that Dom had with his mother at the end of the book regarding his fathers unexpected death had me wiping the tears away. I FELT that! The things she said to him rang so true.
I knew that the fearsome threesome would put in the work for each other at the end of the book. You can’t love someone out loud like that and then give up so easily. They were all going to find their way back together. I had never read anything by these authors before and now I cannot wait for the next book to be released. I hope Gigi gets her own story and that was hinted at the very end. I am not sure how 4 books will be enough in this series, but we will have to wait and see how the series wraps up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
Ok, off the bat, I gotta say thank you for giving us a Spotify scan for the playlist to this book. I really love it when authors have a playlist you can listen to while reading to really get into the book. But this is the first time I see a way to immediately pull up the playlist! And the music annotations to listen to while you read certain parts! Love it! Now let's get to the review.
I love the way this trio works. Of course, we are coming in while their connections are already established. But to see them flourish from their “just fun” status to something more was fun. I also want to say how natural this all felt reading. The few books I’ve read that include established MM (trust me I am getting more into my list, that TBR has grown and I need to start hitting it) just always felt that the characters sexuality was constantly pointed out. Not that it’s a complaint! This one just flowed so smoothly like you know Emerson and Dominic are hooking up but it's not a constant point about their sexuality, it's more about their connection to each other and how important they are to each other outside their connection to Liliana.
Speaking of the characters, I LOVE Liliana. She is strong and protective of those she cares about. She loves herself and cares about herself. But she isn’t selfish at all! The way she is with the guys is so adorable. I was chuckling during the first spice scene of her pulling out the brat in her. And the way Emerson seems like the silent type but is very protective and caring, even the fact he notices things others wouldn’t notice made me adore him. Dominic is such a ball of energy and a sweetheart that he is a perfect fit for the trio! They all work together which makes their relationship perfect. And I adore how everyone around them is accepting of the trio, because the important thing is they love each other.
I am so excited to read the next book to see Gigi’s story and now I definitely want to go and read the previous books just to see the other couples that were mentioned in this book! I had so much fun reading this one and definitely recommend it for its sweetness vibes and definitely for the spicy scenes we got.
I love the way this trio works. Of course, we are coming in while their connections are already established. But to see them flourish from their “just fun” status to something more was fun. I also want to say how natural this all felt reading. The few books I’ve read that include established MM (trust me I am getting more into my list, that TBR has grown and I need to start hitting it) just always felt that the characters sexuality was constantly pointed out. Not that it’s a complaint! This one just flowed so smoothly like you know Emerson and Dominic are hooking up but it's not a constant point about their sexuality, it's more about their connection to each other and how important they are to each other outside their connection to Liliana.
Speaking of the characters, I LOVE Liliana. She is strong and protective of those she cares about. She loves herself and cares about herself. But she isn’t selfish at all! The way she is with the guys is so adorable. I was chuckling during the first spice scene of her pulling out the brat in her. And the way Emerson seems like the silent type but is very protective and caring, even the fact he notices things others wouldn’t notice made me adore him. Dominic is such a ball of energy and a sweetheart that he is a perfect fit for the trio! They all work together which makes their relationship perfect. And I adore how everyone around them is accepting of the trio, because the important thing is they love each other.
I am so excited to read the next book to see Gigi’s story and now I definitely want to go and read the previous books just to see the other couples that were mentioned in this book! I had so much fun reading this one and definitely recommend it for its sweetness vibes and definitely for the spicy scenes we got.
September 5, 2025
✨️✨️ ARC Review ✨️✨️
Hat Trick is one of those books that sneaks up on you. You start thinking you are just here for a bit of hockey romance fun, and suddenly you are completely invested in three people trying to work out if the love they have stumbled into is worth holding on to. Spoiler: it is.
Dominic and Emerson are best friends, teammates and each other’s person. Enter Liliana, who is chaos and fire and sass all rolled into one. She was not part of the plan, and yet it feels as though she was always meant to be there. What follows is messy and sweet and very sexy, but most of all it is about building something real together.
The little details are what made me fall for this book. Liliana’s closeness with her brother and brother-in-law is so warm you can feel it through the page. I cannot tell you how much I adore a story where the boyfriends are also boyfriends. The “it clicks” moment between them genuinely gave me Spider-Man meme vibes, with everyone pointing at each other like, “oh, it is you, it is us”. Brilliant.
Another thing that deserves a cheer: the handling of safe sex. It is not just mentioned in passing, but woven into the story as a normal and essential part of intimacy. Safe sex is sexy, and I will always give points to a book that treats it that way. Also, I would be remiss not to say how much I loved the labia wall. Iconic.
The story doesn’t shy away from vulnerability either. Both Liliana and Dominic wrestle with their fears about whether they’re worthy of love, and watching them break down those walls is tender and rewarding. Emerson is the glue, he really works to make sure both of them know he cares. When things threaten to unravel, he’s the one pulling them all back together, with a little help from Dominic’s brilliant mother.
The ending was exactly what I wanted. Their happily ever after felt joyful and complete, no judgement from family or friends, just love and acceptance and three people getting the happy ever after they deserve.
Hat Trick is sweet, funny, filthy in all the right places, and full of heart.
Hat Trick is one of those books that sneaks up on you. You start thinking you are just here for a bit of hockey romance fun, and suddenly you are completely invested in three people trying to work out if the love they have stumbled into is worth holding on to. Spoiler: it is.
Dominic and Emerson are best friends, teammates and each other’s person. Enter Liliana, who is chaos and fire and sass all rolled into one. She was not part of the plan, and yet it feels as though she was always meant to be there. What follows is messy and sweet and very sexy, but most of all it is about building something real together.
The little details are what made me fall for this book. Liliana’s closeness with her brother and brother-in-law is so warm you can feel it through the page. I cannot tell you how much I adore a story where the boyfriends are also boyfriends. The “it clicks” moment between them genuinely gave me Spider-Man meme vibes, with everyone pointing at each other like, “oh, it is you, it is us”. Brilliant.
Another thing that deserves a cheer: the handling of safe sex. It is not just mentioned in passing, but woven into the story as a normal and essential part of intimacy. Safe sex is sexy, and I will always give points to a book that treats it that way. Also, I would be remiss not to say how much I loved the labia wall. Iconic.
The story doesn’t shy away from vulnerability either. Both Liliana and Dominic wrestle with their fears about whether they’re worthy of love, and watching them break down those walls is tender and rewarding. Emerson is the glue, he really works to make sure both of them know he cares. When things threaten to unravel, he’s the one pulling them all back together, with a little help from Dominic’s brilliant mother.
The ending was exactly what I wanted. Their happily ever after felt joyful and complete, no judgement from family or friends, just love and acceptance and three people getting the happy ever after they deserve.
Hat Trick is sweet, funny, filthy in all the right places, and full of heart.
August 23, 2025
I was fully expecting a sexy, spicy, rom-com. And this is all of those things and more. I was not expecting my heart strings to be tugged on!! OMG! This throuple- PERFECTION! They each have their own relationship with each other but the guys are unaware that Lil has a relationship with both of them. They are all about having fun. They knew the other person had other partner(s) and were being safe while enjoying college life unattached. A family member’s destination wedding brings them all together and the heat goes from 1 to 10 FAST when the guys realize they have both been seeing Lil. Dom and Em are already both over the moon for Lil. Lil loves spending time with the guys, together and separately, but just wants “fun”. They sit down to decide what they each want out of this “3 some” and come up with “rules”. Well, we all know rules are meant to be broken. Em and Dom not only woo Lil, they are wooing each other without realizing it. The whole concept of loving the other hits each of them hard. There is some past trauma from the loss of a family member but they overcome it, together. Their relationship all together is a thing of a beauty, but seeing the special connections they each have with each other- left me speechless at times. They were what each other needed. And they each filled that void, that “something missing” for each other. They are truly “better together”.
I connected with each character for a different reason. Definitely with Emerson the most. His fears he kept hidden all the time and his quiet, consistent, strength. Dom’s joy and bubbly love with a hidden trauma and pain he kept buried. And Lil, she was scared of commitment but also didn’t want to lose her guys.
I laughed, I giggled, I kicked my feet, I swooned, I SWEAT FROM THE SPICE. That ending and epilogue- the happiest tears ever!
“I’ve always looked for love that was loud. Bold. One like I’ve seen in some of my favorite couples. A love so loud it outshines me even in my boldest of days. But here they have been, loving me in the quiet moments. The ones that go almost unnoticed unless you’re really paying attention.”
“I love that in the silence you make me feel heard. You make me feel like I matter.”
I connected with each character for a different reason. Definitely with Emerson the most. His fears he kept hidden all the time and his quiet, consistent, strength. Dom’s joy and bubbly love with a hidden trauma and pain he kept buried. And Lil, she was scared of commitment but also didn’t want to lose her guys.
I laughed, I giggled, I kicked my feet, I swooned, I SWEAT FROM THE SPICE. That ending and epilogue- the happiest tears ever!
“I’ve always looked for love that was loud. Bold. One like I’ve seen in some of my favorite couples. A love so loud it outshines me even in my boldest of days. But here they have been, loving me in the quiet moments. The ones that go almost unnoticed unless you’re really paying attention.”
“I love that in the silence you make me feel heard. You make me feel like I matter.”
August 23, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
Hat Trick by S.R. Clark & Tilly Ridge
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Thank you to S.R. Clark, Tilly Ridge, and @lunaliterary.management for my free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Liliana likes to keep things casual. She has been seeing Emerson and Dominic at the same time, with neither knowing about the other, but knowing she was seeing someone. Meanwhile, Emerson and Dominic are more than just best friends. They, too, have an open sexual relationship with each other, unbeknownst to Liliana. When all three are invited to the same destination wedding, they quickly find out that each is sleeping with the other... and are totally cool with it. In fact, they are into it.
What starts as a vacation-only threesome quickly turns into a casual throuple when they return home. As the trio spends more time together, it becomes clear that their feelings are much more than casual. When fear threatens to tear their newfound happiness apart, they must decide if love is worth it.
I am living for this sexy trio! Liliana is a total boss babe—running her esthetician biz, singing terribly but wholeheartedly at karaoke, and yes… she has a labia wall in her salon (you have to read it to believe it). Emerson is the grumpy “crabass” who just wants to feel seen and cherished. Dominic is 6’6”, larger than life, the ultimate charmer, and Liliana’s perfect karaoke partner.
Emerson and Dominic’s bond is beautifully written — they love each other deeply, and Liliana only strengthens their connection. It's clear from the start that their love is the kind that lasts forever.
If you are looking for a very spicy but heartfelt throuple romance, you won't want to miss out on Hat Trick!
For fans of: 🔥 MMF | 🌈 Bisexual rep | 🏒 Hockey romance | 👥 Found family | 🧠 Mental health rep
#ARCReview #HatTrick #SRClark #TillyRidge #WhyChooseRomance #MMFRomance #HockeyRomance #BisexualRep #FoundFamilyVibes #RomanceReaders
Hat Trick by S.R. Clark & Tilly Ridge
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Thank you to S.R. Clark, Tilly Ridge, and @lunaliterary.management for my free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Liliana likes to keep things casual. She has been seeing Emerson and Dominic at the same time, with neither knowing about the other, but knowing she was seeing someone. Meanwhile, Emerson and Dominic are more than just best friends. They, too, have an open sexual relationship with each other, unbeknownst to Liliana. When all three are invited to the same destination wedding, they quickly find out that each is sleeping with the other... and are totally cool with it. In fact, they are into it.
What starts as a vacation-only threesome quickly turns into a casual throuple when they return home. As the trio spends more time together, it becomes clear that their feelings are much more than casual. When fear threatens to tear their newfound happiness apart, they must decide if love is worth it.
I am living for this sexy trio! Liliana is a total boss babe—running her esthetician biz, singing terribly but wholeheartedly at karaoke, and yes… she has a labia wall in her salon (you have to read it to believe it). Emerson is the grumpy “crabass” who just wants to feel seen and cherished. Dominic is 6’6”, larger than life, the ultimate charmer, and Liliana’s perfect karaoke partner.
Emerson and Dominic’s bond is beautifully written — they love each other deeply, and Liliana only strengthens their connection. It's clear from the start that their love is the kind that lasts forever.
If you are looking for a very spicy but heartfelt throuple romance, you won't want to miss out on Hat Trick!
For fans of: 🔥 MMF | 🌈 Bisexual rep | 🏒 Hockey romance | 👥 Found family | 🧠 Mental health rep
#ARCReview #HatTrick #SRClark #TillyRidge #WhyChooseRomance #MMFRomance #HockeyRomance #BisexualRep #FoundFamilyVibes #RomanceReaders
August 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this book; it was so easy to read. I demolished it in a very short period of time!
The three MCs are just so appealing; I was completely invested in their relationship. They naturally fit together so well, and I adored their chemistry together. Seeing them try to convince themselves and each other that their relationship is all just for fun is amusing because it’s so clear that they all feel much more for each other than they want to admit.
Dom became my firm favourite pretty much immediately. Emerson completely sold him to me by his early description of his friend – an overexcited five-year-old x golden retriever x protective – and my opinion of him didn’t change as the story progresses. I just felt so empathetic towards him as he tries to deal with his feelings which cause him to hold himself back.
While I loved them as a throuple, I did feel that the relationship between Emerson and Dominic was particularly special. Their bond is so strong, and that friendship, in addition to their intimate relationship, is just so beautiful to experience. They are clearly each other's person and the fact that Emerson is so worried about losing the other man speaks volumes about what they mean to each other, even if Dom isn’t 100% ready to admit it yet. The addition of Lil to their relationship just brings another level to their already captivating dynamic.
"I'm here, Dom. I'll always be here. Because I love you." (Emerson)
Other things that I loved about the book: the fact that Lil is headstrong and independent, and that she doesn’t hide who she is when she’s with her men; that Emerson is seen as the grumpy ‘fixer’ but he also shows a side that is sweet and shy; those teases for the future of how Emerson and Dom would be with a baby (*so much swooning*); those morning scenes together – two grumps and a sunshine – and how much Dom adored those moments; and their love declarations when they finally come *sigh* they are worth the wait!
The three MCs are just so appealing; I was completely invested in their relationship. They naturally fit together so well, and I adored their chemistry together. Seeing them try to convince themselves and each other that their relationship is all just for fun is amusing because it’s so clear that they all feel much more for each other than they want to admit.
Dom became my firm favourite pretty much immediately. Emerson completely sold him to me by his early description of his friend – an overexcited five-year-old x golden retriever x protective – and my opinion of him didn’t change as the story progresses. I just felt so empathetic towards him as he tries to deal with his feelings which cause him to hold himself back.
While I loved them as a throuple, I did feel that the relationship between Emerson and Dominic was particularly special. Their bond is so strong, and that friendship, in addition to their intimate relationship, is just so beautiful to experience. They are clearly each other's person and the fact that Emerson is so worried about losing the other man speaks volumes about what they mean to each other, even if Dom isn’t 100% ready to admit it yet. The addition of Lil to their relationship just brings another level to their already captivating dynamic.
"I'm here, Dom. I'll always be here. Because I love you." (Emerson)
Other things that I loved about the book: the fact that Lil is headstrong and independent, and that she doesn’t hide who she is when she’s with her men; that Emerson is seen as the grumpy ‘fixer’ but he also shows a side that is sweet and shy; those teases for the future of how Emerson and Dom would be with a baby (*so much swooning*); those morning scenes together – two grumps and a sunshine – and how much Dom adored those moments; and their love declarations when they finally come *sigh* they are worth the wait!
August 21, 2025
**Thank you so much to Luna Literary Management for the ARC**
“Hat Trick” follows the why choose romance between Liliana, Dominic and Emerson. Dominic and Emerson are teammates, but above everything they adore each other. They also have a non-exclusive agreement, so they can seek other people to be with. The person they are both seeing? Liliana Campos. She’s a firecracker, and she is aware that involving herself with both Dominic and Emerson may not be good for their friendship. But fate has other plans, and once the three meet and start seeing each other, things do get very intense and very complicated.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Dominic and Emerson. Especially Dominic, since he still holds a lot of grief and anger over his past, and he has a hard time moving on. Emerson is always there for him, while they don’t say those words, we can feel the love they have for each other. So when they find out they’ve been seeing the same woman, Liliana, the two agree to explore this new relationship with her.
Liliana shines more in scenes where she’s with Charlie and Gigi. I love that we get to see that soft side. She’s presented as someone who is very confident of herself, she has her own business, she owns up to her sexuality, but with Gigi we see Liliana as an actual person. She is soft with Charlie, and also her friendship with Gigi is adorable. We love two ladies being each other emotional rock! Even when things get a little tricky between Dominic and Emerson, Liliana feels bad for not being able to help them emotionally. They don’t need each other, but their relationship is clearly better with everyone on board.
“Hat trick” is a fast-paced story with a lot of emotional baggage from the characters, who will learn a lot from their mistakes and while I’d have appreciated a little higher stakes, it’s a good book to enjoy while I was on vacation and I needed something to relax. It came at the perfect time!
I really want to read Gigi's book! She deserves such good things in life!
“Hat Trick” follows the why choose romance between Liliana, Dominic and Emerson. Dominic and Emerson are teammates, but above everything they adore each other. They also have a non-exclusive agreement, so they can seek other people to be with. The person they are both seeing? Liliana Campos. She’s a firecracker, and she is aware that involving herself with both Dominic and Emerson may not be good for their friendship. But fate has other plans, and once the three meet and start seeing each other, things do get very intense and very complicated.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Dominic and Emerson. Especially Dominic, since he still holds a lot of grief and anger over his past, and he has a hard time moving on. Emerson is always there for him, while they don’t say those words, we can feel the love they have for each other. So when they find out they’ve been seeing the same woman, Liliana, the two agree to explore this new relationship with her.
Liliana shines more in scenes where she’s with Charlie and Gigi. I love that we get to see that soft side. She’s presented as someone who is very confident of herself, she has her own business, she owns up to her sexuality, but with Gigi we see Liliana as an actual person. She is soft with Charlie, and also her friendship with Gigi is adorable. We love two ladies being each other emotional rock! Even when things get a little tricky between Dominic and Emerson, Liliana feels bad for not being able to help them emotionally. They don’t need each other, but their relationship is clearly better with everyone on board.
“Hat trick” is a fast-paced story with a lot of emotional baggage from the characters, who will learn a lot from their mistakes and while I’d have appreciated a little higher stakes, it’s a good book to enjoy while I was on vacation and I needed something to relax. It came at the perfect time!
I really want to read Gigi's book! She deserves such good things in life!
August 27, 2025
This book was a total vibe!
I enjoyed it and the characters were amazingly written! They were all so different and brought different things to the table.
You could see how the all blossomed in each others vicinity. They just fit together like puzzle pieces and made an amazing throuple.
At some points it felt a bit like Lil was left out or third wheeling, because Dom and Emerson have been best friends for a while.
This was especially around the third act break up point. Disclaimer I am not a fan of this trope and probably never will be.
And how I see why it happened and also that it was necessary for it to happen for them to grow and especially for Dom. I still absolutely hated that it happened and how Lil was discarded and left out of what was happening to Dom.
Beside that I really really missed the grovelling it felt like when Dom was ready to face them and see his true feelings it was just a I did therapy I see it know and I love you and all was well.
This doesn’t reflect on my overall feeling of this bookz
It’s just me not liking a specific trope.
I will not bring my rating down because of this because I genuinely fell in love with them all and I could see the feelings I was giddy I was happy I was teary eyed reading this book.
And that says it all for me.
Also the side characters were absolutely amazing so to find out there is a next book coming you couldn’t make me happier!
If you love hockey? If you love a little menage a trois? Where they all love each other and show it to each other? With amazing growth and self reflection? But also a dose of humour?
Go pick this one up!
I enjoyed it and the characters were amazingly written! They were all so different and brought different things to the table.
You could see how the all blossomed in each others vicinity. They just fit together like puzzle pieces and made an amazing throuple.
At some points it felt a bit like Lil was left out or third wheeling, because Dom and Emerson have been best friends for a while.
This was especially around the third act break up point. Disclaimer I am not a fan of this trope and probably never will be.
And how I see why it happened and also that it was necessary for it to happen for them to grow and especially for Dom. I still absolutely hated that it happened and how Lil was discarded and left out of what was happening to Dom.
Beside that I really really missed the grovelling it felt like when Dom was ready to face them and see his true feelings it was just a I did therapy I see it know and I love you and all was well.
This doesn’t reflect on my overall feeling of this bookz
It’s just me not liking a specific trope.
I will not bring my rating down because of this because I genuinely fell in love with them all and I could see the feelings I was giddy I was happy I was teary eyed reading this book.
And that says it all for me.
Also the side characters were absolutely amazing so to find out there is a next book coming you couldn’t make me happier!
If you love hockey? If you love a little menage a trois? Where they all love each other and show it to each other? With amazing growth and self reflection? But also a dose of humour?
Go pick this one up!
September 4, 2025
“Some mornings she buries herself so deep into her pillow, I genuinely worry she’s going to get stuck there.”
Hat Trick deserves all the hats thrown anywhere and everywhere. S.R. Clark and Tilly Ridge, I will be sending you a lifetime supply of paper, or flash drives or cloud storage or WHATEVER IS NEEDED BC I NEED MORE.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Available on KU
This book starts out HOT, ends hot, middle is hot. It’s all hot. But it is also INCREDIBLY sweet. I LOVED the 3 main characters soooo much. We came into the story with them already having separate established relationships BUT it was SO worth it. I think that it added such an interesting dynamic into the story that honestly I haven’t read before in a book. And to see the dynamic change from just fun to more serious IN A NORMAL TIME FRAME was amazing.
Liliana is so kind and patient but also incredibly supportive but firm. She gave the boys absolute heater of banter comebacks lol. Emerson is honestly my fav. The way that he not only pushes Dominic when needed but also gives him the space he needs is literally amazing, you can feel the deep love and connection between them. And Dominic, freaking teary eyed. Love him. I just wanted to jump through the pages and give him a hug but also fist fight him all at the same time.
Also the banter and timing of the moments of just pure comedy in this book are chefs kiss. I was cracking up at Liliana, Emerson and Dom a LOT. But Clark and Ridge also didn’t bow away from tough topics and did it INCREDIBLY well. I also really liked how the typical oh well its a poly relationship this is “weird” lets make the family or friends have an issue.
Hat Trick deserves all the hats thrown anywhere and everywhere. S.R. Clark and Tilly Ridge, I will be sending you a lifetime supply of paper, or flash drives or cloud storage or WHATEVER IS NEEDED BC I NEED MORE.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Available on KU
This book starts out HOT, ends hot, middle is hot. It’s all hot. But it is also INCREDIBLY sweet. I LOVED the 3 main characters soooo much. We came into the story with them already having separate established relationships BUT it was SO worth it. I think that it added such an interesting dynamic into the story that honestly I haven’t read before in a book. And to see the dynamic change from just fun to more serious IN A NORMAL TIME FRAME was amazing.
Liliana is so kind and patient but also incredibly supportive but firm. She gave the boys absolute heater of banter comebacks lol. Emerson is honestly my fav. The way that he not only pushes Dominic when needed but also gives him the space he needs is literally amazing, you can feel the deep love and connection between them. And Dominic, freaking teary eyed. Love him. I just wanted to jump through the pages and give him a hug but also fist fight him all at the same time.
Also the banter and timing of the moments of just pure comedy in this book are chefs kiss. I was cracking up at Liliana, Emerson and Dom a LOT. But Clark and Ridge also didn’t bow away from tough topics and did it INCREDIBLY well. I also really liked how the typical oh well its a poly relationship this is “weird” lets make the family or friends have an issue.
August 13, 2025
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: August 21 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
I was completely captivated by this book. It has a certain charm that pulls you in, making you smile, feel the joy, and experience the ups and downs alongside the characters.
The connection between Liliana, Emerson, and Dominic is pure fire. The chemistry between them is so powerful it practically leaps off the page. It’s a magnetic bond that draws you in, full of heat and authenticity, leaving you in awe.
The attraction they share goes beyond just physical. It’s deep, emotional, and almost otherworldly. Watching their relationships evolve was a thrill. The way they navigate their feelings is both exciting and touching. The energy between them is so vibrant, you can’t help but get swept up in their passion and tenderness.
But it's not just about the sparks. The emotions in the story run deep. Each character feels so real, like someone you could meet and instantly connect with.
There were moments, especially with Dominic, where my heart just ached with pure affection for him. He's a character who reaches out to you, making you wish you could just reach back through the pages of the book and offer him the biggest, warmest hug. It's a rare gift when characters become so real that you want to personally send them comfort and support.
I enjoyed every minute of it and can’t wait for others to read this book too.
Thank you to S.R. Clark, Tilly Ridge and Luna Literary for the ARC.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Hockey romance, college romance, mmf, friends to lovers, friends with benefits
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: August 21 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
I was completely captivated by this book. It has a certain charm that pulls you in, making you smile, feel the joy, and experience the ups and downs alongside the characters.
The connection between Liliana, Emerson, and Dominic is pure fire. The chemistry between them is so powerful it practically leaps off the page. It’s a magnetic bond that draws you in, full of heat and authenticity, leaving you in awe.
The attraction they share goes beyond just physical. It’s deep, emotional, and almost otherworldly. Watching their relationships evolve was a thrill. The way they navigate their feelings is both exciting and touching. The energy between them is so vibrant, you can’t help but get swept up in their passion and tenderness.
But it's not just about the sparks. The emotions in the story run deep. Each character feels so real, like someone you could meet and instantly connect with.
There were moments, especially with Dominic, where my heart just ached with pure affection for him. He's a character who reaches out to you, making you wish you could just reach back through the pages of the book and offer him the biggest, warmest hug. It's a rare gift when characters become so real that you want to personally send them comfort and support.
I enjoyed every minute of it and can’t wait for others to read this book too.
Thank you to S.R. Clark, Tilly Ridge and Luna Literary for the ARC.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Hockey romance, college romance, mmf, friends to lovers, friends with benefits
August 21, 2025
ARC Review — Hat Trick (Palm University #3) by Tilly Ridge & SR Clark
This book? Whew. I devoured it in less than a day and I have zero regrets. Hat Trick had me laughing, fanning myself, and lowkey clutching my chest because it’s not just about the spice (though…hello tropical Turks & Caicos 🌴🔥👀), it’s about heart, healing, and finding a love that feels like home.
Liliana ? A QUEEN. 👑 She’s chaotic, sassy, ambitious, and the type of FMC who knows what she deserves and refuses to settle for less. And then there’s Emerson and Dominic—best friends, teammates, each other’s person... and now Liliana’s. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. The banter, the tension, the devotion? Chef’s kiss. 💋
What I loved most is that this wasn’t just a fling with heat (though the voyeurism + exhibitionism scenes? Yeah, I needed a fan 🥵). It’s also about care. About building something real, even when it’s messy and terrifying. The mental health rep here was handled beautifully, and Dominic in particular made my heart ache in the best way.
✨ Tropes:
🌴 MMF Poly Romance
🏒 Bisexual Rep
🌴 Hockey Romance
🏒 Best Friends to Lovers (x2!)
🌴 Voyeurism + Exhibitionism
🌴 Found Family Vibes
🏒 College Sports Setting
This series continues to be one of my go-tos for when I want feel-good romance mixed with sizzling spice and deeper emotional threads. I laughed, I swooned, I wanted to hug every single one of them.
Huge thanks to Tilly Ridge, SR Clark, and Luna Literary Management for the ARC. I cannot wait to see what’s next for Palm University!
This book? Whew. I devoured it in less than a day and I have zero regrets. Hat Trick had me laughing, fanning myself, and lowkey clutching my chest because it’s not just about the spice (though…hello tropical Turks & Caicos 🌴🔥👀), it’s about heart, healing, and finding a love that feels like home.
Liliana ? A QUEEN. 👑 She’s chaotic, sassy, ambitious, and the type of FMC who knows what she deserves and refuses to settle for less. And then there’s Emerson and Dominic—best friends, teammates, each other’s person... and now Liliana’s. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. The banter, the tension, the devotion? Chef’s kiss. 💋
What I loved most is that this wasn’t just a fling with heat (though the voyeurism + exhibitionism scenes? Yeah, I needed a fan 🥵). It’s also about care. About building something real, even when it’s messy and terrifying. The mental health rep here was handled beautifully, and Dominic in particular made my heart ache in the best way.
✨ Tropes:
🌴 MMF Poly Romance
🏒 Bisexual Rep
🌴 Hockey Romance
🏒 Best Friends to Lovers (x2!)
🌴 Voyeurism + Exhibitionism
🌴 Found Family Vibes
🏒 College Sports Setting
This series continues to be one of my go-tos for when I want feel-good romance mixed with sizzling spice and deeper emotional threads. I laughed, I swooned, I wanted to hug every single one of them.
Huge thanks to Tilly Ridge, SR Clark, and Luna Literary Management for the ARC. I cannot wait to see what’s next for Palm University!
August 13, 2025
ARC Review
Hat Trick is an absolute gem! From the very first page, I was hooked by the dynamic between the characters. The story revolves around the intense friendship and budding romance between Liliana, Dominic, and Emerson, and it beautifully captures the essence of love in all its complexities.
As a fan of reverse harem, I found this book to be a perfect entry point for anyone new to the genre. The authors have crafted a narrative that pulls you in without overwhelming you, making it accessible for beginners while still providing depth. The chemistry among the trio is electric, and you can feel the stakes rise as their relationship evolves.
What truly stood out for me was the emotional depth. I found myself teary-eyed at several moments, a testament to how well Clark and Ridge have developed their characters. Liliana is a force of nature—chaotic, sassy, and utterly captivating. The way she disrupts Dominic and Emerson’s world adds an exciting layer to the story.
The writing flows effortlessly, making it hard to put down. I genuinely finished the book faster than I wanted, simply because I was so engrossed in their journey. I can't wait to dive back into the rest of the series.
In a nutshell, Hat Trick is a delightful blend of tension, romance, and emotional resonance. If you’re looking for a fun yet heartfelt read, look no further. This book is a win!
Hat Trick is an absolute gem! From the very first page, I was hooked by the dynamic between the characters. The story revolves around the intense friendship and budding romance between Liliana, Dominic, and Emerson, and it beautifully captures the essence of love in all its complexities.
As a fan of reverse harem, I found this book to be a perfect entry point for anyone new to the genre. The authors have crafted a narrative that pulls you in without overwhelming you, making it accessible for beginners while still providing depth. The chemistry among the trio is electric, and you can feel the stakes rise as their relationship evolves.
What truly stood out for me was the emotional depth. I found myself teary-eyed at several moments, a testament to how well Clark and Ridge have developed their characters. Liliana is a force of nature—chaotic, sassy, and utterly captivating. The way she disrupts Dominic and Emerson’s world adds an exciting layer to the story.
The writing flows effortlessly, making it hard to put down. I genuinely finished the book faster than I wanted, simply because I was so engrossed in their journey. I can't wait to dive back into the rest of the series.
In a nutshell, Hat Trick is a delightful blend of tension, romance, and emotional resonance. If you’re looking for a fun yet heartfelt read, look no further. This book is a win!
August 14, 2025
What a great read - soo good! First, this is part of a series (which I thought I'd read all of Tilly's back catalog because I love her books so much - but somehow missed the first two in this series) and the first couple of chapters were a little chaotic for me trying to put the pieces together -but you don't need to read them if you're here for the "why choose" aspect of this book. And if you're new to why choose - this is a great entry. I loved all the MC's and the depth of writing makes it so much more than the spice aspect.
MMC Dom and Emerson are best friends, lovers, team mates - however they also see other people and the rule is "don't talk about it". They're both seeing FMC Liliana and early in the book we get their throuple "meet cute" moment. The boys are seniors in college, Lil has her own salon and works hard for her independence. The boys are sweet, the characters grow throughout the book, their emotional connection is just as apparent on the page as their physical connection. This was a quick read, coming in at less than 300 pages - and while I def could have read another 50 pages - I don't feel that the story lacked in any way. And it only took my to 68% to "get" and appreciate the title! Pick this one up! Thanks to Tilly, S.R. and Luna Literary for a chance ARC read this!
MMC Dom and Emerson are best friends, lovers, team mates - however they also see other people and the rule is "don't talk about it". They're both seeing FMC Liliana and early in the book we get their throuple "meet cute" moment. The boys are seniors in college, Lil has her own salon and works hard for her independence. The boys are sweet, the characters grow throughout the book, their emotional connection is just as apparent on the page as their physical connection. This was a quick read, coming in at less than 300 pages - and while I def could have read another 50 pages - I don't feel that the story lacked in any way. And it only took my to 68% to "get" and appreciate the title! Pick this one up! Thanks to Tilly, S.R. and Luna Literary for a chance ARC read this!
August 22, 2025
Hat Trick is a quick, spicy read that delivers on its promise of a fun, heartfelt hockey romance with a twist. I really enjoyed following Liliana, Emerson, and Dom as they navigated friendship, desire, and ultimately, love. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and the steamy scenes were well-written and satisfying. I also appreciated that while there were conflicts, they never felt forced or overblown - the resolution flowed naturally, which made the story easy to sink into.
That said, I think the premise wowed me more than the book itself. The story was good and well-written, but it didn’t pack quite as much of a punch as I hoped it would. For me, the inclusion of playlists and footnotes sometimes pulled me out of the narrative rather than adding to it - though I know that’s a personal preference.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is its representation. I loved that the LGBTQ+ elements were woven in seamlessly and authentically, without being a point of struggle or shame for the characters. The MM aspect, in particular, was written with warmth and without self-loathing tropes, which was refreshing to see.
In the end, Hat Trick was an enjoyable read with good spice, likable characters, and strong representation. I liked it - I just didn’t love it.
I was grateful to receive an advanced copy of this book; all opinions are my own and shared voluntarily.
That said, I think the premise wowed me more than the book itself. The story was good and well-written, but it didn’t pack quite as much of a punch as I hoped it would. For me, the inclusion of playlists and footnotes sometimes pulled me out of the narrative rather than adding to it - though I know that’s a personal preference.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is its representation. I loved that the LGBTQ+ elements were woven in seamlessly and authentically, without being a point of struggle or shame for the characters. The MM aspect, in particular, was written with warmth and without self-loathing tropes, which was refreshing to see.
In the end, Hat Trick was an enjoyable read with good spice, likable characters, and strong representation. I liked it - I just didn’t love it.
I was grateful to receive an advanced copy of this book; all opinions are my own and shared voluntarily.
August 15, 2025
Gonna be honest, I could have finished this book in one day if I didn't have to sleep 🤣
From the very beginning this book had me sucked in. The only part I struggled with was the FMC's name because it is the same as my daughter's lol.
This book is a beautiful story about Liliana, Emerson and Dominic trying to navigate their lives and relationship after they all end up in the same place, attending Liliana's brother's wedding. But as they continue what had already started, it just looks a little different now, Dominic gets scared because of his past. The question is will he be able to overcome the obstacle or will it ultimately destroy the good thing the three of them have?
Honestly I don't know what else I can say about this amazing book without giving too much away.
If you love hockey romance with no one but 2 big hockey studs (I'm talking both are over 6 feet tall 🥵🥵) and a fierce FMC, this is the book for you. Also this book do have a trigger warning list, so make sure you check that before reading.
Hat Trick releases on August 21st, you should definitely check it out.
Tropes:
🌴MMF
🏒Bisexual Rep
🌴Hockey Romance
🏒Found Family
🌴Vöyeurism
🏒Exhïbitiönism
🌴“Just for fun”
🏒Mental Health Rep
From the very beginning this book had me sucked in. The only part I struggled with was the FMC's name because it is the same as my daughter's lol.
This book is a beautiful story about Liliana, Emerson and Dominic trying to navigate their lives and relationship after they all end up in the same place, attending Liliana's brother's wedding. But as they continue what had already started, it just looks a little different now, Dominic gets scared because of his past. The question is will he be able to overcome the obstacle or will it ultimately destroy the good thing the three of them have?
Honestly I don't know what else I can say about this amazing book without giving too much away.
If you love hockey romance with no one but 2 big hockey studs (I'm talking both are over 6 feet tall 🥵🥵) and a fierce FMC, this is the book for you. Also this book do have a trigger warning list, so make sure you check that before reading.
Hat Trick releases on August 21st, you should definitely check it out.
Tropes:
🌴MMF
🏒Bisexual Rep
🌴Hockey Romance
🏒Found Family
🌴Vöyeurism
🏒Exhïbitiönism
🌴“Just for fun”
🏒Mental Health Rep
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews