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Buffalo Warriors Hockey #5
Hidden Power Play
The only thing worse than hating him? Wanting him.
Nico
Kirby “Packy” Paquette used to be my teammate, roommate, and best friend. But everything fell apart when he slept with my ex-girlfriend.
Just as we were about to start our professional hockey careers, our friendship exploded into bitter fights, damaged reputations, and a seven-year rivalry.
We never talked about what happened. Instead, we let pride take over, and our on-ice hatred has become legendary. No one doubts how we feel about each other, especially not us.
Packy
Things were fine until the league called a few weeks ago. Now, Nico Rossi and I are stuck together on a PR tour, trying to make nice and ignore the past.
There’s just one problem: the cameras catch everything we can’t hide, and social media is obsessed with us. The attention is so relentless we’re questioning what everyone else apparently already knows.
We’re trying to pretend the past doesn’t matter, but this forced proximity is slowly making us face the truth. We’re starting to wonder if we ever understood what we were actually fighting about.
Hidden Power Playis the fifth standalone in the bestselling Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. Expect a high-heat MM hockey romance featuring vicious rivals, a bi-awakening, explosive tension, chaotic found family, and a hard-earned HEA.
Nico
Kirby “Packy” Paquette used to be my teammate, roommate, and best friend. But everything fell apart when he slept with my ex-girlfriend.
Just as we were about to start our professional hockey careers, our friendship exploded into bitter fights, damaged reputations, and a seven-year rivalry.
We never talked about what happened. Instead, we let pride take over, and our on-ice hatred has become legendary. No one doubts how we feel about each other, especially not us.
Packy
Things were fine until the league called a few weeks ago. Now, Nico Rossi and I are stuck together on a PR tour, trying to make nice and ignore the past.
There’s just one problem: the cameras catch everything we can’t hide, and social media is obsessed with us. The attention is so relentless we’re questioning what everyone else apparently already knows.
We’re trying to pretend the past doesn’t matter, but this forced proximity is slowly making us face the truth. We’re starting to wonder if we ever understood what we were actually fighting about.
Hidden Power Playis the fifth standalone in the bestselling Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. Expect a high-heat MM hockey romance featuring vicious rivals, a bi-awakening, explosive tension, chaotic found family, and a hard-earned HEA.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2026
89 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
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March 18, 2026
Advanced Review copy received from authors.
Oh my goodness Ryan and Josh have gone and done it yet again, writing another sweet, tender and heartfelt book.
Nico Rossi and Kirby ‘Packy’ Paquette were best friends and roommates back in college. They were each others ride or die.
After listening to other people around them, they began to hate and even seven years later they still cannot stand the sight of each other and would do anything to not be in each others vicinity.
The GM of the hockey league has other ideas. He wants certain hockey payers to help save the league with PR appearances and this means Nico and Packy are forced together.
Packy is recently divorced from his wife Mia and Nico is an out and proud player.
Spending more time in each others orbit again they start to talk. Initially it’s hate talking and chirping but once they have the conversation they have been avoiding for years, the old friendship resurfaces.
Conversations need to be had by both sides and trust must be gained for them to move forward in this relationship.
This is the fifth and could be final book in the Buffalo Warriors series from Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. I have loved everything about this series and this book fits in perfectly. The sense of love and found family is apparent throughout the book and It shines through in the sublime, flawless writing. Ryan and Josh write with such passion for their characters and for the knowledge both have for the game of ice hockey.
Nico and Packy have been in love with each other for years but neither really understands how.
The tenderness and love between the two main characters gave me goosebumps. I absolutely loved hearing from the past characters in this series.
Thank you Ryan and Josh for allowing me to arc read this incredible story
Oh my goodness Ryan and Josh have gone and done it yet again, writing another sweet, tender and heartfelt book.
Nico Rossi and Kirby ‘Packy’ Paquette were best friends and roommates back in college. They were each others ride or die.
After listening to other people around them, they began to hate and even seven years later they still cannot stand the sight of each other and would do anything to not be in each others vicinity.
The GM of the hockey league has other ideas. He wants certain hockey payers to help save the league with PR appearances and this means Nico and Packy are forced together.
Packy is recently divorced from his wife Mia and Nico is an out and proud player.
Spending more time in each others orbit again they start to talk. Initially it’s hate talking and chirping but once they have the conversation they have been avoiding for years, the old friendship resurfaces.
Conversations need to be had by both sides and trust must be gained for them to move forward in this relationship.
This is the fifth and could be final book in the Buffalo Warriors series from Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. I have loved everything about this series and this book fits in perfectly. The sense of love and found family is apparent throughout the book and It shines through in the sublime, flawless writing. Ryan and Josh write with such passion for their characters and for the knowledge both have for the game of ice hockey.
Nico and Packy have been in love with each other for years but neither really understands how.
The tenderness and love between the two main characters gave me goosebumps. I absolutely loved hearing from the past characters in this series.
Thank you Ryan and Josh for allowing me to arc read this incredible story
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hidden Power Play – Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood
Buffalo Warriors Series – Standalone
This was a can’t-put-it-down read for me.
Kirby “Packy” Paquette and Nico Rossi were once the closest of friends after meeting in college. But one painful moment changed everything, turning their friendship into seven years of rivalry, hurt, and unresolved feelings.
When they’re forced to work together on a PR tour, being in such close proximity means they can’t avoid each other—or the emotions they’ve both tried to bury. What follows is an emotional journey full of tension, hilarious banter, sharp chirping, and undeniable chemistry.
I loved the push and pull between Packy and Nico. Their pride and miscommunication cause pain along the way, but watching their walls slowly come down and seeing them finally face their feelings was incredibly heartfelt.
The story balances humor, spice, and deep emotion beautifully. Beneath all the anger and rivalry was a love that never truly disappeared.
A beautifully written, emotional story that really stayed with me. Highly recommend!
HiddenPowerPlay #RyanTaylor #JoshuaHarwood #BuffaloWarriorsSeries #MMRomance #HockeyRomance #EnemiesToLovers #SecondChanceRomance #BookReview #Bookstagram #RomanceReaders #MustReadBooks #CantPutItDown #Love.
Buffalo Warriors Series – Standalone
This was a can’t-put-it-down read for me.
Kirby “Packy” Paquette and Nico Rossi were once the closest of friends after meeting in college. But one painful moment changed everything, turning their friendship into seven years of rivalry, hurt, and unresolved feelings.
When they’re forced to work together on a PR tour, being in such close proximity means they can’t avoid each other—or the emotions they’ve both tried to bury. What follows is an emotional journey full of tension, hilarious banter, sharp chirping, and undeniable chemistry.
I loved the push and pull between Packy and Nico. Their pride and miscommunication cause pain along the way, but watching their walls slowly come down and seeing them finally face their feelings was incredibly heartfelt.
The story balances humor, spice, and deep emotion beautifully. Beneath all the anger and rivalry was a love that never truly disappeared.
A beautifully written, emotional story that really stayed with me. Highly recommend!
HiddenPowerPlay #RyanTaylor #JoshuaHarwood #BuffaloWarriorsSeries #MMRomance #HockeyRomance #EnemiesToLovers #SecondChanceRomance #BookReview #Bookstagram #RomanceReaders #MustReadBooks #CantPutItDown #Love.
March 24, 2026
The way I devoured this book was insane! I had to literally pace myself so I wouldn’t read too fast.
Ryan and Josh have done it again. They wrote a beautiful story with everything you could want. Humor, vulnerability, an incredible amount of love and spice.
Nico Rossi and Kirby “Packy” Paquette were best friends in college but one moment had that friendship turn into seven years of rivalry. When they’re forced to work together on a PR tour buried feelings are brought forth and the tension between them can only stay contained for so long.
Hidden Power play is full of emotions, banter, cute nicknames and so many sweet moments. I love everything Ryan and Josh have written but this one is by far their best.
Ryan and Josh have done it again. They wrote a beautiful story with everything you could want. Humor, vulnerability, an incredible amount of love and spice.
Nico Rossi and Kirby “Packy” Paquette were best friends in college but one moment had that friendship turn into seven years of rivalry. When they’re forced to work together on a PR tour buried feelings are brought forth and the tension between them can only stay contained for so long.
Hidden Power play is full of emotions, banter, cute nicknames and so many sweet moments. I love everything Ryan and Josh have written but this one is by far their best.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"When rivals become teammates, magic happens."
Fantastic dual pov story of Packy and Nico...#Packo. These two have known each other for years, since their college days, but so called enemies for most of it. When the hockey powers of be want them to team up for Promotional purposes- they have to set up a truce and fake their friendship but when does the fake news stop and real feelings get in the way?
Loved their story and looking forward to more of these authors work.
Fantastic dual pov story of Packy and Nico...#Packo. These two have known each other for years, since their college days, but so called enemies for most of it. When the hockey powers of be want them to team up for Promotional purposes- they have to set up a truce and fake their friendship but when does the fake news stop and real feelings get in the way?
Loved their story and looking forward to more of these authors work.
March 23, 2026
Hidden Power Play review
Where to start? I went into this book blind. I’ve read no other books from Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood (I will be rectifying that immediately), so I had no hints as to their writing styles or how previous stories played out. Hidden Power Play blew my expectations out of the water. We had angst, tension, and real feelings. Relatable characters with real emotions. They might be famous hockey players but at their core they’re two people that have big feelings and honest fears. They have to fight for what they want, what they need and they have to grow in order to get it. Character development was top tier. With any hockey romance, we love to read the banter between teammates and this book did not disappoint on that front. I can’t wait to go back and read the four previous books in this series as well.
Thank you to Ryan & Joshua for allowing me to read an ARC and give my opinion on this book.
Easy 5 stars. I’d give 6 if I could simply because I loved falling in love with Nix & Pack while they fell in love with each other.
Where to start? I went into this book blind. I’ve read no other books from Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood (I will be rectifying that immediately), so I had no hints as to their writing styles or how previous stories played out. Hidden Power Play blew my expectations out of the water. We had angst, tension, and real feelings. Relatable characters with real emotions. They might be famous hockey players but at their core they’re two people that have big feelings and honest fears. They have to fight for what they want, what they need and they have to grow in order to get it. Character development was top tier. With any hockey romance, we love to read the banter between teammates and this book did not disappoint on that front. I can’t wait to go back and read the four previous books in this series as well.
Thank you to Ryan & Joshua for allowing me to read an ARC and give my opinion on this book.
Easy 5 stars. I’d give 6 if I could simply because I loved falling in love with Nix & Pack while they fell in love with each other.
March 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
*I was sent an advanced reader copy via the authors in exchange for my honest, unbiased review*
I had a tough time rating this one. Because on one hand it wasn’t my favorite out of the series but on the other hand I loved it. But not for the reason I would usually love a book.
I loved what this book represented and the build up of all of the books combined! The found family and team camaraderie was done so beautifully🫶🏼 I genuinely love these characters and they get better with each addition to the world.
As for the story of Packy & Nico, the beginning was so fun and had so much potential. But… I think it fell a bit flat in the second half. I’m not a fan of miscommunication at the best of times and here it felt a little like it was added just for the sake of conflict. The third act conflict didn’t feel organic it felt forced.
With all of this being said, I still ended up rooting for these characters and this family as a whole. I think if you are going to read this series then #Packo is a necessary addition but I’m not sure how I feel about it as a standalone.
All in all, I had a good time and that’s one thing I can always expect from Ryan & Joshua!💕
*I was sent an advanced reader copy via the authors in exchange for my honest, unbiased review*
I had a tough time rating this one. Because on one hand it wasn’t my favorite out of the series but on the other hand I loved it. But not for the reason I would usually love a book.
I loved what this book represented and the build up of all of the books combined! The found family and team camaraderie was done so beautifully🫶🏼 I genuinely love these characters and they get better with each addition to the world.
As for the story of Packy & Nico, the beginning was so fun and had so much potential. But… I think it fell a bit flat in the second half. I’m not a fan of miscommunication at the best of times and here it felt a little like it was added just for the sake of conflict. The third act conflict didn’t feel organic it felt forced.
With all of this being said, I still ended up rooting for these characters and this family as a whole. I think if you are going to read this series then #Packo is a necessary addition but I’m not sure how I feel about it as a standalone.
All in all, I had a good time and that’s one thing I can always expect from Ryan & Joshua!💕
March 24, 2026
** I was gifted an ARC of this book **
The Buffalo Warriors series will always have a special place in my heart since it was my introduction to MM romance, so I’ve been really excited to finally get Packy and Nico’s story—and it was totally worth the wait.
I loved the premise: two former best friends who are now basically enemies getting stuck together on a hockey press tour and having to pretend to get along. Of course, being forced to spend that much time together makes it pretty obvious that the line between love and hate isn’t as clear as they thought.
Packy and Nico were so sweet together. Their miscommunication definitely had me a little frustrated at times, but their chemistry and emotional connection were so obvious that I couldn’t help rooting for them. I also loved all the chirping and banter from their teammates—it added a lot of fun moments and made the team feel like such a great found family. It was really nice getting to see characters from the rest of the series pop up too.
We also get a little intro to the next hockey romance coming later this summer, which just made me even more excited for what’s next.
If you like low-angst hockey romance, fun banter, and strong found-family vibes, this is definitely one to check out.
Tropes:
• Former best friends to enemies to lovers
• Second Chance
• Bi Awakening
• Forced proximity
• Hockey romance
• Found family
• Teammate banter
• Low angst
The Buffalo Warriors series will always have a special place in my heart since it was my introduction to MM romance, so I’ve been really excited to finally get Packy and Nico’s story—and it was totally worth the wait.
I loved the premise: two former best friends who are now basically enemies getting stuck together on a hockey press tour and having to pretend to get along. Of course, being forced to spend that much time together makes it pretty obvious that the line between love and hate isn’t as clear as they thought.
Packy and Nico were so sweet together. Their miscommunication definitely had me a little frustrated at times, but their chemistry and emotional connection were so obvious that I couldn’t help rooting for them. I also loved all the chirping and banter from their teammates—it added a lot of fun moments and made the team feel like such a great found family. It was really nice getting to see characters from the rest of the series pop up too.
We also get a little intro to the next hockey romance coming later this summer, which just made me even more excited for what’s next.
If you like low-angst hockey romance, fun banter, and strong found-family vibes, this is definitely one to check out.
Tropes:
• Former best friends to enemies to lovers
• Second Chance
• Bi Awakening
• Forced proximity
• Hockey romance
• Found family
• Teammate banter
• Low angst
March 24, 2026
Holy moly—the tension between these two is insane. 🔥
Packy and Nico go from roommates, teammates, and best friends… to bitter rivals who can barely stand to be in the same room. The animosity? Explosive. Every forced interaction—especially on the ice—turns into chaos.
But when the league pushes them back together, all that buried history rises to the surface—and it’s immediately clear that what’s between them never really disappeared. The tension is sharp, emotional, and completely consuming.
Watching them unravel the past and slowly realize the truth of what they feel? Pure perfection. The angst, the longing, the everything—it just hits exactly right.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
Packy and Nico go from roommates, teammates, and best friends… to bitter rivals who can barely stand to be in the same room. The animosity? Explosive. Every forced interaction—especially on the ice—turns into chaos.
But when the league pushes them back together, all that buried history rises to the surface—and it’s immediately clear that what’s between them never really disappeared. The tension is sharp, emotional, and completely consuming.
Watching them unravel the past and slowly realize the truth of what they feel? Pure perfection. The angst, the longing, the everything—it just hits exactly right.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
March 25, 2026
Nico and Packy are so perfect for each other
I love this different take on enemies to lovers. Really you’ve got best friends to very hurt guys to reluctant work partners to life partners.
As always, Ryan and Josh focus the majority of the book on the relationship between the two main characters. Niko and “Packy” are thrown together by the league on a PR tour and they have to face their past while their natural chemistry shines for the world to see.
I love that it was so clear that the friendship they had had in college was still there under the simmering hurt they had caused each other. I don’t want to spoil anything, but healing the old hurts is so believable because sometimes hurt people hurt people without the full story.
Their teammates are a hoot, at times brutal with the chirps (even Coach gets in on it!) and other times the most supportive friends anybody could ask for. It was really great to see characters (Otto!) from the previous books in the series as well as get to know some new interesting players.
If you love a relationship story, this book will make you laugh and ache, giggle and tear up and you will be so thrilled when Nico and Packy get their HEA.
I love this different take on enemies to lovers. Really you’ve got best friends to very hurt guys to reluctant work partners to life partners.
As always, Ryan and Josh focus the majority of the book on the relationship between the two main characters. Niko and “Packy” are thrown together by the league on a PR tour and they have to face their past while their natural chemistry shines for the world to see.
I love that it was so clear that the friendship they had had in college was still there under the simmering hurt they had caused each other. I don’t want to spoil anything, but healing the old hurts is so believable because sometimes hurt people hurt people without the full story.
Their teammates are a hoot, at times brutal with the chirps (even Coach gets in on it!) and other times the most supportive friends anybody could ask for. It was really great to see characters (Otto!) from the previous books in the series as well as get to know some new interesting players.
If you love a relationship story, this book will make you laugh and ache, giggle and tear up and you will be so thrilled when Nico and Packy get their HEA.
March 25, 2026
Hidden Power Play - Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood
4.25/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
I literally started this book this morning and finished in one sitting man, what a ride this one was. I love me a good enemies to lovers and this made me feel all those feely vibes. This is the first book I’ve read by these two and this is definitely not the end.
I knew from the moment we meet Packy and Nico that these two were going to be so special to me. I’m a huge sucker for these two in so many ways. There was a huge miscommunication of their fallen out because they used to be friends and when they got rectified, things were quite interesting.
From the beginning, their hilarious banter had me in giggles. I wanted to smack them too many times because these two were so stubborn at the worst times. I also loved the teammate banter because the guys were so hilarious.
I love me a good push and pull when you don’t want it because you just know things are going to light up in the best way possible.
I definitely need more books from these two because how could I not?
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
4.25/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
I literally started this book this morning and finished in one sitting man, what a ride this one was. I love me a good enemies to lovers and this made me feel all those feely vibes. This is the first book I’ve read by these two and this is definitely not the end.
I knew from the moment we meet Packy and Nico that these two were going to be so special to me. I’m a huge sucker for these two in so many ways. There was a huge miscommunication of their fallen out because they used to be friends and when they got rectified, things were quite interesting.
From the beginning, their hilarious banter had me in giggles. I wanted to smack them too many times because these two were so stubborn at the worst times. I also loved the teammate banter because the guys were so hilarious.
I love me a good push and pull when you don’t want it because you just know things are going to light up in the best way possible.
I definitely need more books from these two because how could I not?
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
March 28, 2026
#PackoForever
I've had this series on my tbr for so, so long, and I finally started it... with book five, but... hey, at least I did. Yay me.
Nico and Packy are the definition of idiots to lovers and I love them for this. They made me laugh so hard with their clumsiness and banter that it was impossible not to end up giving this book 5 stars. Add in the Warriors and the Condor's group chats and friend groups and you have yourself a perfect book that will make you laugh out loud with all the shenanigans.
This book is the perfect example of what a great world we'd live into if toxic masculinity would not exist in sports and male dominated fields. The way these guys knew when to joke and when to support each other unconditionally was so heartwarming to read about. I wish everyone could have a friend group as strong as Nico and Packy have. The found family is exceptional and I can't wait to go back and read about all these clowns. I love every single one of them already.
Nico and Packy used to be best friends but something happened back in college that made them become the rivals everyone loved to talk about. When the league is in a need of a imagine clean-up they call in 10 of the most loved players in the hopes they can save face and make everyone look at hockey as an inclusive sport. Jeez, this needs to happen irl asap. Misogyny and toxic masculinity needs to stop being such major part in the locker culture.
The way Nix and Pack reconnected was beautiful, and once they were past the hostility phase things started to click back into place and remind them why they used to be the best of friends back in the day. Their journey was not an easy one, it was sprinkled with fear, confusion, excitement, miscommunication, but the most important part was that it was also sprinkled with friendship, understanding and so, so much love.
Their chemistry was off the charts, on the ice, off the ice, in front of a camera, in the bedroom... you name it and they have it in spades.
Another thing I loved about this book, aside from the obvious, ( keep in mind I haven't read the other books in the series so idk if this used to be a problem, I'm speaking only about this one book specifically ) is that we didn't have that scandal when it came to two players being in a relationship, locker room hostility and whatnot. Thank whatever that's holy.
The way their story ended was perfect, but it was also the finale that introduces us to a new future series I know for a fact that I'll love. Bring it on, Kai baby. I need to see you fall head over heels in love.
I can't wait for the audiobook to drop so I can listen to this story again.
I've had this series on my tbr for so, so long, and I finally started it... with book five, but... hey, at least I did. Yay me.
Nico and Packy are the definition of idiots to lovers and I love them for this. They made me laugh so hard with their clumsiness and banter that it was impossible not to end up giving this book 5 stars. Add in the Warriors and the Condor's group chats and friend groups and you have yourself a perfect book that will make you laugh out loud with all the shenanigans.
This book is the perfect example of what a great world we'd live into if toxic masculinity would not exist in sports and male dominated fields. The way these guys knew when to joke and when to support each other unconditionally was so heartwarming to read about. I wish everyone could have a friend group as strong as Nico and Packy have. The found family is exceptional and I can't wait to go back and read about all these clowns. I love every single one of them already.
Nico and Packy used to be best friends but something happened back in college that made them become the rivals everyone loved to talk about. When the league is in a need of a imagine clean-up they call in 10 of the most loved players in the hopes they can save face and make everyone look at hockey as an inclusive sport. Jeez, this needs to happen irl asap. Misogyny and toxic masculinity needs to stop being such major part in the locker culture.
The way Nix and Pack reconnected was beautiful, and once they were past the hostility phase things started to click back into place and remind them why they used to be the best of friends back in the day. Their journey was not an easy one, it was sprinkled with fear, confusion, excitement, miscommunication, but the most important part was that it was also sprinkled with friendship, understanding and so, so much love.
Their chemistry was off the charts, on the ice, off the ice, in front of a camera, in the bedroom... you name it and they have it in spades.
Another thing I loved about this book, aside from the obvious, ( keep in mind I haven't read the other books in the series so idk if this used to be a problem, I'm speaking only about this one book specifically ) is that we didn't have that scandal when it came to two players being in a relationship, locker room hostility and whatnot. Thank whatever that's holy.
The way their story ended was perfect, but it was also the finale that introduces us to a new future series I know for a fact that I'll love. Bring it on, Kai baby. I need to see you fall head over heels in love.
I can't wait for the audiobook to drop so I can listen to this story again.
March 25, 2026
ARC Review 🤛🏻
'Hidden Power Play' by Ryan taylor and Joshua Harwood
4/5 ⭐
Who can resist a good enemies to lovers book.
Nicco and Packy were best friends, turned enemies, turned lovers.
This book was filled with so much tension I was getting antsy. I really enjoyed reading about Nicco and Packy, their relationship started off rocky but soon found a really good rhythm that was really sweet!
-MM romance
-Nicknames
-Enemies to lovers
-Tension
'Hidden Power Play' by Ryan taylor and Joshua Harwood
4/5 ⭐
Who can resist a good enemies to lovers book.
Nicco and Packy were best friends, turned enemies, turned lovers.
This book was filled with so much tension I was getting antsy. I really enjoyed reading about Nicco and Packy, their relationship started off rocky but soon found a really good rhythm that was really sweet!
-MM romance
-Nicknames
-Enemies to lovers
-Tension
March 27, 2026
Enemies to lovers has always been one of my favorite tropes. That repressed attraction has so much potential to explode into flames when the MC’s finally figure things out. This book brings two men into forced proximity who are carrying a grudge from years ago. Their constant chirping is hilarious but you can sense something more simmering underneath. The slow build is perfect as everyone around them begins to see what they don’t…yet. Packy and Nico stole my heart and I never want it back!
March 27, 2026
I thought this was fun and sweet, it’s got friends turned rivals turned friends turned lovers and it definitely worked for me!
Nico and Packy were the best of friends as college roommates and teammates but one dumb decision and a major locker room fight later they are the biggest rivals in professional hockey. They are known for their fights and behavior on the ice, it’s just expected. But when the league is in trouble and develops a promotional tour putting the two of them together as best friends it’s going to test them both in more ways than one.
As these two have to play nice for the cameras they also start to feel that connection that made them such good friends to begin with. They start talking about the things that have happened and the reasons why and even how they feel, about their situation and each other.
I was definitely rooting for these two, they really are so cute and sweet together, even when they are supposed to be rivals. You can feel how deeply they really do care for each other and that only gets stronger and they open up and admit to what they want. Sure there are some issues and struggles for them along the way, but they figure it out together and it feels very real and genuine. There’s great banter, a lot of feels and sweetness and two hockey players who have been crazy in love with each other longer than they even realize. Definitely a fun read that I enjoyed from start to finish and I’m already looking forward to more hockey guys from the authors!
Nico and Packy were the best of friends as college roommates and teammates but one dumb decision and a major locker room fight later they are the biggest rivals in professional hockey. They are known for their fights and behavior on the ice, it’s just expected. But when the league is in trouble and develops a promotional tour putting the two of them together as best friends it’s going to test them both in more ways than one.
As these two have to play nice for the cameras they also start to feel that connection that made them such good friends to begin with. They start talking about the things that have happened and the reasons why and even how they feel, about their situation and each other.
I was definitely rooting for these two, they really are so cute and sweet together, even when they are supposed to be rivals. You can feel how deeply they really do care for each other and that only gets stronger and they open up and admit to what they want. Sure there are some issues and struggles for them along the way, but they figure it out together and it feels very real and genuine. There’s great banter, a lot of feels and sweetness and two hockey players who have been crazy in love with each other longer than they even realize. Definitely a fun read that I enjoyed from start to finish and I’m already looking forward to more hockey guys from the authors!
March 26, 2026
4.5 stars
This is book five in the authors’ Buffalo Warriors Hockey series and I loved finally getting Packy’s story in this friends to enemies to lovers hockey romance.
After being enemies for so many years and threatening each other’s lives anytime they were in the same general vicinity, it was wonderful to see Nico and Packy getting past their hard feelings and working together to save hockey. I got such a kick out of all of the hashtags concerning their (initial) nonexistent chemistry but (and this may sound crazy considering it’s a BOOK!), it was written so well that I could almost swear they were real guys and I had a front row seat to witness their reignited attraction and it was everything I could’ve hoped for! (I have to admit, I was cheering along with the fans, PACKO, PACKO!!!) Speaking of, I was never so glad as when they finally got their heads out of their rear ends and admitted how they felt about each other… it was perfect!
If you enjoy stubborn, hulking, hockey players you should give this book and series a try. Our MCs were both good guys and were unexpectedly sweet to each other at times making this one every bit as good and fun to read as the others in the series. So check it out! 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book five in the authors’ Buffalo Warriors Hockey series and I loved finally getting Packy’s story in this friends to enemies to lovers hockey romance.
After being enemies for so many years and threatening each other’s lives anytime they were in the same general vicinity, it was wonderful to see Nico and Packy getting past their hard feelings and working together to save hockey. I got such a kick out of all of the hashtags concerning their (initial) nonexistent chemistry but (and this may sound crazy considering it’s a BOOK!), it was written so well that I could almost swear they were real guys and I had a front row seat to witness their reignited attraction and it was everything I could’ve hoped for! (I have to admit, I was cheering along with the fans, PACKO, PACKO!!!) Speaking of, I was never so glad as when they finally got their heads out of their rear ends and admitted how they felt about each other… it was perfect!
If you enjoy stubborn, hulking, hockey players you should give this book and series a try. Our MCs were both good guys and were unexpectedly sweet to each other at times making this one every bit as good and fun to read as the others in the series. So check it out! 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2026
Review of advance copy from Authors
Hidden Power Play by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood
Book # 5 in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series
Tropes:
MM romance
Former best friends to enemies to lovers
Second chance
Bi awakening
Forced proximity
Hockey romance
Found family
Teammate banter this makes this book so much fun
Low angst
This book is about Packy and Nico. Two former best friends who are now enemies. The hockey league has decided to put these two together on a PR tour. The tension are off the chart chemistry almost jumps off the page. With the way things happened in college it caused so much hurt within both of them the easiest way to express it was to hurt the other. The more time they spend together they start to notice more things about each other that they like. The team banter and ribbing were hilarious. My favorite part of the whole book was near the end at the when they were in the back yard with guys from the team. Pack say, “Nix and I can’t build a life on empty days and stolen weekends, so I’m choosing him.”
Hidden Power Play by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood
Book # 5 in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series
Tropes:
MM romance
Former best friends to enemies to lovers
Second chance
Bi awakening
Forced proximity
Hockey romance
Found family
Teammate banter this makes this book so much fun
Low angst
This book is about Packy and Nico. Two former best friends who are now enemies. The hockey league has decided to put these two together on a PR tour. The tension are off the chart chemistry almost jumps off the page. With the way things happened in college it caused so much hurt within both of them the easiest way to express it was to hurt the other. The more time they spend together they start to notice more things about each other that they like. The team banter and ribbing were hilarious. My favorite part of the whole book was near the end at the when they were in the back yard with guys from the team. Pack say, “Nix and I can’t build a life on empty days and stolen weekends, so I’m choosing him.”
March 27, 2026
I have been waiting for Packy!!
This was another hit! Nico and Packy are full of so much lust and confusion and history! While I don't see this as a true enemies to lovers, they were fighting but there was no real hate there, it was hurt not hate, it was still such a raw emotional thing! Nico and Packy go from beat friends and one sides love to a hurt filled falling out to being forced to be around each other again and all those old feelings come back! Except now they are more !
There is a bit of a miscommunication, or more of a lack of communication that causes a bit of a road bump in their relationship, but it does end in a HEA!!
I look forward to the new series!
This was another hit! Nico and Packy are full of so much lust and confusion and history! While I don't see this as a true enemies to lovers, they were fighting but there was no real hate there, it was hurt not hate, it was still such a raw emotional thing! Nico and Packy go from beat friends and one sides love to a hurt filled falling out to being forced to be around each other again and all those old feelings come back! Except now they are more !
There is a bit of a miscommunication, or more of a lack of communication that causes a bit of a road bump in their relationship, but it does end in a HEA!!
I look forward to the new series!
March 25, 2026
Packy and Nico went from being the best of friends to the worse enemies. They played for rival teams but with one PR tour they were brought together. The character growth of both Packy and Nico was great. Both of them had to grow in order to understand the other. The hockey tour that brought them together again might clear up why they were enemies and could they overcome this?
March 26, 2026
Wow
Wow, I love all the books in this series but this has to be my favorite. This book has all the emotional ups and downs, it is amazing. Nico and Packy, like the others have so much determination to make the relationship work, they put all the broken pieces back together. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Wow, I love all the books in this series but this has to be my favorite. This book has all the emotional ups and downs, it is amazing. Nico and Packy, like the others have so much determination to make the relationship work, they put all the broken pieces back together. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
What does a perfect Rom-com have: Humor, powerful attraction, interference from outside forces, miscommunication, tender moments, and an HEA. Hidden Power Play has all of these elements and more. In short, it follows a perfect Rom-com arc with realistic characters who filled my heart and left me wanting more. I got an ARC copy of Hidden Power Play and am writing this review on my own terms.
Hidden Power Play features one of my favorite tropes: rivals-to-lovers. It's got more of the Buffalo Warriors - a bantering and loving found family that I adore from reading the previous books in the series.
Hidden Power Play is the fifth installment of the Buffalo Warriors Hockey Series by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. I pre-ordered this as soon as it was announced because I was already a fan of Packy’s from Overtime Goal and the previous Buffalo Warriors books.
In this enemies-to-lovers rom-com, we meet Packy and Nico as Nico slams into Packy and they fight over Packy breaking the bro-code and having sex with Nico’s ex-girlfriend. This scene is from Packy’s point of view. I was hooked on the book from this prologue.
Then we find out that Packy and Nico have hated each other for the last 7 years since that fight. They fight on the ice and snipe at each other in nearly every game their rival NY teams play.
The first chapter opens with them being forced together on a PR campaign to save the league from imminent failure. After their first weekend, the hashtags, the shipping, and videos of their weekend surface on social media, eventually revealing (even to themselves) that they might actually be feeling something different, something more, underneath all of that hatred.
Immediately, I’m drawn further into their world as I see both characters notice little things about each other, before they've even entertained the thought of rebuilding their friendship. They notice how the other smells, what kinds of clothes he's wearing, what his eyes are saying, and how his mouth looks. All the little things we look for when we are attracted to another person. Ryan and Josh are fantastic at bringing the human experience alive in their books
Ryan and Josh are at their best when they use humor to highlight some of the downsides of our culture. In particular, they highlight the intrusive behavior and unrealistic expectations that fans and the media exhibit, making it difficult for celebrities to maintain a personal life while in the spotlight. They do this expertly throughout the book, often leaving me laughing out loud at the hashtags like #TwoMinutesOfFlirting and others, along with descriptions of Packy and Nico on their PR tour. Packy and Nico are also shamelessly used by the hockey league to generate interest in the sport and increase the ratings for hockey on TV. Packy and Nico endure so much intrusion into their personal lives that it's almost too much for them to handle. Fortunately, they both have their teams, their found families, and eventually each other to make light of their situation and to support and ground them.
Ryan and Josh use dual narration in all of their books, and it’s expertly done here. Each character moves the story along, and we rarely see the same scenes from both points of view. But with the observations the current narrator makes, we understand what the other is feeling and sometimes thinking, even if the narrator doesn’t catch it himself. This is used to great effect during a conversation that results in a major misunderstanding, based on an assumption, which almost pulls the lovers apart for good.
I haven't laughed out loud so much while reading in a while. Ryan and Josh’s books always take a step beyond that and always include something to think about. Their characters, while flawed, always show a better way to behave and love by the end of their books.
To sum up, I’ll list five things that made Hidden Power Play stand out to me:
1: Fantasticly funny found families
2: Cheeky chirps between main characters
3: Steamy scenes with heart
4: Commentary on current culture with humor
5: Rom-com perfection
I can’t say enough good things about Hidden Power Play. It is an outstanding character-driven Rom-com.
Hidden Power Play features one of my favorite tropes: rivals-to-lovers. It's got more of the Buffalo Warriors - a bantering and loving found family that I adore from reading the previous books in the series.
Hidden Power Play is the fifth installment of the Buffalo Warriors Hockey Series by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. I pre-ordered this as soon as it was announced because I was already a fan of Packy’s from Overtime Goal and the previous Buffalo Warriors books.
In this enemies-to-lovers rom-com, we meet Packy and Nico as Nico slams into Packy and they fight over Packy breaking the bro-code and having sex with Nico’s ex-girlfriend. This scene is from Packy’s point of view. I was hooked on the book from this prologue.
Then we find out that Packy and Nico have hated each other for the last 7 years since that fight. They fight on the ice and snipe at each other in nearly every game their rival NY teams play.
The first chapter opens with them being forced together on a PR campaign to save the league from imminent failure. After their first weekend, the hashtags, the shipping, and videos of their weekend surface on social media, eventually revealing (even to themselves) that they might actually be feeling something different, something more, underneath all of that hatred.
Immediately, I’m drawn further into their world as I see both characters notice little things about each other, before they've even entertained the thought of rebuilding their friendship. They notice how the other smells, what kinds of clothes he's wearing, what his eyes are saying, and how his mouth looks. All the little things we look for when we are attracted to another person. Ryan and Josh are fantastic at bringing the human experience alive in their books
Ryan and Josh are at their best when they use humor to highlight some of the downsides of our culture. In particular, they highlight the intrusive behavior and unrealistic expectations that fans and the media exhibit, making it difficult for celebrities to maintain a personal life while in the spotlight. They do this expertly throughout the book, often leaving me laughing out loud at the hashtags like #TwoMinutesOfFlirting and others, along with descriptions of Packy and Nico on their PR tour. Packy and Nico are also shamelessly used by the hockey league to generate interest in the sport and increase the ratings for hockey on TV. Packy and Nico endure so much intrusion into their personal lives that it's almost too much for them to handle. Fortunately, they both have their teams, their found families, and eventually each other to make light of their situation and to support and ground them.
Ryan and Josh use dual narration in all of their books, and it’s expertly done here. Each character moves the story along, and we rarely see the same scenes from both points of view. But with the observations the current narrator makes, we understand what the other is feeling and sometimes thinking, even if the narrator doesn’t catch it himself. This is used to great effect during a conversation that results in a major misunderstanding, based on an assumption, which almost pulls the lovers apart for good.
I haven't laughed out loud so much while reading in a while. Ryan and Josh’s books always take a step beyond that and always include something to think about. Their characters, while flawed, always show a better way to behave and love by the end of their books.
To sum up, I’ll list five things that made Hidden Power Play stand out to me:
1: Fantasticly funny found families
2: Cheeky chirps between main characters
3: Steamy scenes with heart
4: Commentary on current culture with humor
5: Rom-com perfection
I can’t say enough good things about Hidden Power Play. It is an outstanding character-driven Rom-com.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I didn’t hate Pack. I’d spent years convinced I did, but a few days together had blown that apart. It wasn’t hate I felt; it was the ghost of what I’d wanted back in college. I’d wanted him.”
Hidden Power Play by Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood is the fifth book in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. They’ve done it again. They’ve outdone themselves with Hidden Power Play! This book is a totally heartfelt addition to the series.
If you know Ryan and Josh, you know how much they care about their characters, and Nico and Packy are no exception. These two were inseparable in college (each other’s ride-or-die) until they turned into bitter rivals. Seeing them forced back together for a league PR tour after seven years of avoiding each other (or just fighting on ice) was pure gold. The tension was unreal. The chirping and banter were hilarious.
“We laughed. The tension heightened when he scooted even closer, and I shifted nearer to him. Nothing was happening, I reminded myself.”
What really got me was the emotional depth. This story isn’t just a sports romance. Packy’s journey with his bi-awakening felt real, I could feel it with him. His genuine and vulnerable struggle made me root for him even harder. And Nico? He’s just everything. I was waiting for the conversation they’d been avoiding for years and it didn’t disappoint.
“I’ve watched you two going at it for years, and you’re always a wreck before Condors games. Nobody gets that nervous because they hate someone. It’s because you’re running from something you don’t understand.”
The found family vibes are top-tier. It was so good to see the old Warriors crew again, like a warm hug. And the chemistry between the team members is always a highlight. Ryan and Josh have this amazing way of telling a story that you don't know where your heart is most of the time.
If this is the end of the series, it’s a perfect way to finish it. There are some new characters (hello, Kai!) that I’m already dying to read about.
This book is a total must-read, so is the whole series. I highly recommend it.
Thank you, Ryan and Josh for this free eARC. This is my honest review and recommendation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pack & Nix 💙
Who doesn't love a best friends to enemies to lovers trope, and these boys give us just that!
Pack and Nix were best friends since meeting in college, until one day they get into a huge fight - with fists - and literally come to blows. Never to speak to each other again.
They both play for different hockey teams within the same league so the years following are part hockey - part kicking the sh*t out of each other on the ice.
One day the big bosses hold a conference and tell a select few players that the league is basically going to go bust if they dont get interaction, numbers and general interest up. They need investors, in all forms.
So the plan is to pair hockey players up to go out on the road and win over the public, attend press conferences and basically go on tour for the league. And who do you think got paired up...thats right - Pack and Nix 😏
Obviously they both hate the idea and kick off about it but there is nothing they can do.
They start working together and SLOWLY it doesn't seem like they hate each other as much as they thought.
Old memories from college surface and its clear there has always been 'something' there between them, even when they were best friends.
The fans go mad for them, making videos online of the two of them, the lingering looks, the jokes, the undeniable chemistry and they are trending online *packoforever 🫶🏻
Pack is left thinking he isn't as straight as he once thought and has to come to terms with that, it's a struggle for him but it's either face it or lose Nix.
With the fans becomes increasingly persistent about the two of them, its only a matter of time....
A great read, I was screaming at the pair of them to just SORT IT OUT at some points and in the end they do which I loved.
I know Pack had his struggles and his internal monologue was definitely going throught it, as was Nix's. But I am so glad it worked out the way it did for them. It was a journey but clearly one they both needed.
The chemistry was undeniable from the get go and when we finally get out Bi-awakening we all love, it was 🤌🏼
Who doesn't love a best friends to enemies to lovers trope, and these boys give us just that!
Pack and Nix were best friends since meeting in college, until one day they get into a huge fight - with fists - and literally come to blows. Never to speak to each other again.
They both play for different hockey teams within the same league so the years following are part hockey - part kicking the sh*t out of each other on the ice.
One day the big bosses hold a conference and tell a select few players that the league is basically going to go bust if they dont get interaction, numbers and general interest up. They need investors, in all forms.
So the plan is to pair hockey players up to go out on the road and win over the public, attend press conferences and basically go on tour for the league. And who do you think got paired up...thats right - Pack and Nix 😏
Obviously they both hate the idea and kick off about it but there is nothing they can do.
They start working together and SLOWLY it doesn't seem like they hate each other as much as they thought.
Old memories from college surface and its clear there has always been 'something' there between them, even when they were best friends.
The fans go mad for them, making videos online of the two of them, the lingering looks, the jokes, the undeniable chemistry and they are trending online *packoforever 🫶🏻
Pack is left thinking he isn't as straight as he once thought and has to come to terms with that, it's a struggle for him but it's either face it or lose Nix.
With the fans becomes increasingly persistent about the two of them, its only a matter of time....
A great read, I was screaming at the pair of them to just SORT IT OUT at some points and in the end they do which I loved.
I know Pack had his struggles and his internal monologue was definitely going throught it, as was Nix's. But I am so glad it worked out the way it did for them. It was a journey but clearly one they both needed.
The chemistry was undeniable from the get go and when we finally get out Bi-awakening we all love, it was 🤌🏼
March 30, 2026
MY OPINION: I have enjoyed this entire series. The characters are a lot of fun, and it’s fun to get to know these couples.
There are a lot of moments with other players in this one. Seeing some of the previous couples lets you have a bit of a catch-up on what is happening in their lives. This is always a wonderful introduction to the next series.
This is most certainly an enemies (yeah, right) to lovers story. Or maybe it’s a friends-to-lovers!? It’s hard to say for sure, but they are brought together to deal with their feelings and address the elephant in the room. There is something between them, and it can’t be ignored.
There is a slow burn, smoldering from week to week in the story. We also have a couple where one of them is straight. I enjoyed seeing how social media makes a decision and runs with it. The books take us through those pressures and what they choose to do when they simply can’t pretend anymore.
Lots of hockey in this, some great spicy scenes, and tons of inner monologue while they figure out how to handle new feelings, or finally address feelings they had before. I liked it all. Another great book in the series where you like the MCs. Even though you can see how they will end up together, you are still rooting for them while they figure it out.
I feel these can be read individually. The first one is on my TBR. The others I have read and recommend them if you love a solid hockey romance. Honestly, read them all, it’s a great way to step away from life and enjoy some love stories.
There are a lot of moments with other players in this one. Seeing some of the previous couples lets you have a bit of a catch-up on what is happening in their lives. This is always a wonderful introduction to the next series.
This is most certainly an enemies (yeah, right) to lovers story. Or maybe it’s a friends-to-lovers!? It’s hard to say for sure, but they are brought together to deal with their feelings and address the elephant in the room. There is something between them, and it can’t be ignored.
There is a slow burn, smoldering from week to week in the story. We also have a couple where one of them is straight. I enjoyed seeing how social media makes a decision and runs with it. The books take us through those pressures and what they choose to do when they simply can’t pretend anymore.
Lots of hockey in this, some great spicy scenes, and tons of inner monologue while they figure out how to handle new feelings, or finally address feelings they had before. I liked it all. Another great book in the series where you like the MCs. Even though you can see how they will end up together, you are still rooting for them while they figure it out.
I feel these can be read individually. The first one is on my TBR. The others I have read and recommend them if you love a solid hockey romance. Honestly, read them all, it’s a great way to step away from life and enjoy some love stories.
March 30, 2026
This story introduced me to authors Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood, and it won't be my last.
As I stayed up late into the night thanks to Nico and Packy, who were once the best of friends. However, one painful moment seven years ago changed everything, sparking a fierce rivalry and leaving many unresolved feelings.
That is, until a PR tour forces the pair together, and being in such proximity makes them reassess their feelings for each other—feelings they have both long tried to bury. But not without each giving the other a hard time.
The push-and-pull, witty banter, chirping, and chemistry were the highlights of this story. As I watched their walls come down, they finally faced their emotions and revealed some long-held truths.
But throughout it all, the rivalry on the ice never wavered, which made it all the more enjoyable. It's also clear that the authors are very knowledgeable about the sport, which made the story even more engaging and entertaining to read.
And with the perfect mix of spice, banter, anger, rivalry, angst and humour, Hidden Power Play was a captivating and enjoyable read. That I would definitely recommend to others and am eager to read more from these authors. So, I'm going to check out the earlier books in this series as soon as possible!
My thanks to TAA for the opportunity to read an early copy of Hidden Power Play. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
As I stayed up late into the night thanks to Nico and Packy, who were once the best of friends. However, one painful moment seven years ago changed everything, sparking a fierce rivalry and leaving many unresolved feelings.
That is, until a PR tour forces the pair together, and being in such proximity makes them reassess their feelings for each other—feelings they have both long tried to bury. But not without each giving the other a hard time.
The push-and-pull, witty banter, chirping, and chemistry were the highlights of this story. As I watched their walls come down, they finally faced their emotions and revealed some long-held truths.
But throughout it all, the rivalry on the ice never wavered, which made it all the more enjoyable. It's also clear that the authors are very knowledgeable about the sport, which made the story even more engaging and entertaining to read.
And with the perfect mix of spice, banter, anger, rivalry, angst and humour, Hidden Power Play was a captivating and enjoyable read. That I would definitely recommend to others and am eager to read more from these authors. So, I'm going to check out the earlier books in this series as soon as possible!
My thanks to TAA for the opportunity to read an early copy of Hidden Power Play. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
March 29, 2026
Two idiots! That’s what Packy and Nico were. Two idiots who couldn’t communicate to save their lives 😩
Seven years of a misconstrued rivalry that took away from them important years of friendship or something more. Seven years that they could have been together.
Packy and Nico couldn’t see what everyone else did, that they loved each other. Their eyes said more than their words could and those lingering glances weren’t as subtle as they thought.
Nico was afraid of what he felt for Packy, especially since Packy claimed to be straight. But he always knew he wanted Packy. Not having in his life all that time hurt more than he could say.
Packy didn’t know that what he felt for Nico was more than just best friend’s love and realizing that was like a punch to the gut. So much time wasted on a rivalry that never should have existed.
Had it not been because they had to work together, who knows how long it would have taken to sort out their feelings. They definitely needed that little push.
I loved them even though they got on my nerves😅 I know things happen when they’re supposed to and seven years was the right time for them to find each other again. They needed to grow as a person in order to value what they had now.
Wish we could have gotten the public’s reaction to them confirming their romance. I think they would have lost their minds 😂
Seven years of a misconstrued rivalry that took away from them important years of friendship or something more. Seven years that they could have been together.
Packy and Nico couldn’t see what everyone else did, that they loved each other. Their eyes said more than their words could and those lingering glances weren’t as subtle as they thought.
Nico was afraid of what he felt for Packy, especially since Packy claimed to be straight. But he always knew he wanted Packy. Not having in his life all that time hurt more than he could say.
Packy didn’t know that what he felt for Nico was more than just best friend’s love and realizing that was like a punch to the gut. So much time wasted on a rivalry that never should have existed.
Had it not been because they had to work together, who knows how long it would have taken to sort out their feelings. They definitely needed that little push.
I loved them even though they got on my nerves😅 I know things happen when they’re supposed to and seven years was the right time for them to find each other again. They needed to grow as a person in order to value what they had now.
Wish we could have gotten the public’s reaction to them confirming their romance. I think they would have lost their minds 😂
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced copy of this book and was blown away by this emotional and powerful enemies to lovers tale.
The Animosity between the two MC'S is well explained through the prologue and flashback scenes which are well paced and manage to round out the characters backstory without taking you completely out of the story. One aspect that I feel that this book does well is deal with the complexity of the MC'S feelings, the longing for the closeness they once shared, the bitterness of the betrayal and the confusion over these new feelings that grow between them.
I also enjoyed how the authors looked at the fame angle and how being in the public eye affected how the character's relationship developed.
A low angst book, but still had it's emotional moments, where it brought me to tears, but coupled with spicy scenes that were both hot and absolutely sexy, and sections that had me laughing out loud this book is highly enjoyable and definitely in a cant-put-down category as I finished this book in one evening.
Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood have always written beautiful stories, but have completely outdone themselves with this addition to the buffalo warriors series. Highly recommended, I know this is a book I will love to read over and over again.
The Animosity between the two MC'S is well explained through the prologue and flashback scenes which are well paced and manage to round out the characters backstory without taking you completely out of the story. One aspect that I feel that this book does well is deal with the complexity of the MC'S feelings, the longing for the closeness they once shared, the bitterness of the betrayal and the confusion over these new feelings that grow between them.
I also enjoyed how the authors looked at the fame angle and how being in the public eye affected how the character's relationship developed.
A low angst book, but still had it's emotional moments, where it brought me to tears, but coupled with spicy scenes that were both hot and absolutely sexy, and sections that had me laughing out loud this book is highly enjoyable and definitely in a cant-put-down category as I finished this book in one evening.
Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood have always written beautiful stories, but have completely outdone themselves with this addition to the buffalo warriors series. Highly recommended, I know this is a book I will love to read over and over again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A friendship that was always meant to be so much more.
Nico Rossi and Kirby Paquette were best friends in college, having each other’s backs and supporting each other through everything, until an incident comes between their relationship and ruins it.
Years later, they living their lives successfully and separately even though they both feel lonely, when they are paired on a PR tour. The thought of spending time together and playing nice for the cameras send them into a tailspin.
Unfortunately, everyone can see how they look at each other and gravitate towards each other and the media frenzy around their chemistry borders on obsessive.
The Packo sensation forces them into acknowledging their feelings, their attraction and undeniable chemistry that lay dormant for years.
Hidden Power Play is an emotional journey that shows how a miscommunication can turn your life inside out, but if you are willing to face your fears, mistakes and confront your true feelings, everything will turn out the way it was always meant to be.
The story of Packy and Nico is a beautiful romance full of locker room banter and chirping, spice, deep emotions, second-chances and bi awakening reinforced by the strong found-family vibe.
Thank you for the ARC.
Nico Rossi and Kirby Paquette were best friends in college, having each other’s backs and supporting each other through everything, until an incident comes between their relationship and ruins it.
Years later, they living their lives successfully and separately even though they both feel lonely, when they are paired on a PR tour. The thought of spending time together and playing nice for the cameras send them into a tailspin.
Unfortunately, everyone can see how they look at each other and gravitate towards each other and the media frenzy around their chemistry borders on obsessive.
The Packo sensation forces them into acknowledging their feelings, their attraction and undeniable chemistry that lay dormant for years.
Hidden Power Play is an emotional journey that shows how a miscommunication can turn your life inside out, but if you are willing to face your fears, mistakes and confront your true feelings, everything will turn out the way it was always meant to be.
The story of Packy and Nico is a beautiful romance full of locker room banter and chirping, spice, deep emotions, second-chances and bi awakening reinforced by the strong found-family vibe.
Thank you for the ARC.
March 28, 2026
This was such a satisfying addition to the Buffalo Warriors series and honestly, one of my favourite things about these books is how much the team always has each other’s backs. That sense of support and found family just never misses.
Packy and Nico’s story? They were idiots for YEARS… but I loved them anyway 😅 Best friends and roommates in college, total ride-or-die, until outside voices got in their heads and everything fell apart. Fast forward seven years and they can’t stand each other… until they’re forced back together for league PR.
From there, it’s all tension, chirping, and unresolved feelings until they finally have the conversations they’ve been avoiding. Watching that old friendship come back and then grow into something more, was so worth it. The tenderness between them really got me.
Packy navigating life post-divorce and Nico being confidently out added some nice depth, and I loved seeing how they worked through everything to rebuild trust. Their HEA felt well-earned and honestly just made me happy.
If this is the final book in the series, it’s a beautiful one to end on. Great writing, strong emotional payoff, and that signature Warriors family feel throughout. I’ve loved this whole series, and this book fits perfectly into it.
Packy and Nico’s story? They were idiots for YEARS… but I loved them anyway 😅 Best friends and roommates in college, total ride-or-die, until outside voices got in their heads and everything fell apart. Fast forward seven years and they can’t stand each other… until they’re forced back together for league PR.
From there, it’s all tension, chirping, and unresolved feelings until they finally have the conversations they’ve been avoiding. Watching that old friendship come back and then grow into something more, was so worth it. The tenderness between them really got me.
Packy navigating life post-divorce and Nico being confidently out added some nice depth, and I loved seeing how they worked through everything to rebuild trust. Their HEA felt well-earned and honestly just made me happy.
If this is the final book in the series, it’s a beautiful one to end on. Great writing, strong emotional payoff, and that signature Warriors family feel throughout. I’ve loved this whole series, and this book fits perfectly into it.
Review of advance copy
That saying "There's a fine line between love and hate," definitely applies to Packy and Nico! These two have been meant for each other since college but were too afraid and confused to do anything about it. One moment, one act of betrayal had it all crashing down before it could even begin. Thus starting a years long rivalry on the ice. Until one PR series forces them together and makes them start reevaluating the past and their "hatred" for each other.
This book is everything I love about enemies to lovers. You have the tension, the angst, the longing, and the denial until it all comes to a head and the fireworks begin! #Packo is my favorite shipping! I can't even tell you how my heart fluttered every time I saw them giving in a little more and more until they FINALLY got it right!
If you're looking for a beautiful bi awakening story, best friends to enemies to lovers, hockey romance look no further because you have found it here! I hope you'll all grab this book and love it as much as I did!
Thank you to Ryan Taylor, Joshua Harwood, and The Author Agency for the gift of this ARC but most of all for the gift of these two amazing men and their journey to their HEA!
This book is everything I love about enemies to lovers. You have the tension, the angst, the longing, and the denial until it all comes to a head and the fireworks begin! #Packo is my favorite shipping! I can't even tell you how my heart fluttered every time I saw them giving in a little more and more until they FINALLY got it right!
If you're looking for a beautiful bi awakening story, best friends to enemies to lovers, hockey romance look no further because you have found it here! I hope you'll all grab this book and love it as much as I did!
Thank you to Ryan Taylor, Joshua Harwood, and The Author Agency for the gift of this ARC but most of all for the gift of these two amazing men and their journey to their HEA!
Review of advance copy
Two former best friends—who have now become more like enemies—are forced to pretend in front of the public that they actually get along. Sounds like a great idea, right?
Except… spending that much time in such close proximity—well, let’s just say we all know how thin the line between love and hate really is.
I really enjoyed the tension between Packy and Nico. Their pride and constant miscommunication were seriously frustrating at times, but at the same time, their chemistry and emotional connection were incredible and impossible to ignore.
The story itself was fantastic—it struck the perfect balance between humor, spice, and those deeper, emotional moments.
I also really loved the teammates. They’re the perfect example of what a true found family looks like. And it was so nice seeing familiar faces from previous books as well.
This book delivered exactly what I’ve come to expect: a beautifully written, emotional story that’s going to stay with me for a long time.
Tropes:
• Former best friends to enemies to lovers
• Second Chance
• Bi Awakening
• Forced proximity
• Hockey romance
• Found family
• Teammate banter
• Low angst
Except… spending that much time in such close proximity—well, let’s just say we all know how thin the line between love and hate really is.
I really enjoyed the tension between Packy and Nico. Their pride and constant miscommunication were seriously frustrating at times, but at the same time, their chemistry and emotional connection were incredible and impossible to ignore.
The story itself was fantastic—it struck the perfect balance between humor, spice, and those deeper, emotional moments.
I also really loved the teammates. They’re the perfect example of what a true found family looks like. And it was so nice seeing familiar faces from previous books as well.
This book delivered exactly what I’ve come to expect: a beautifully written, emotional story that’s going to stay with me for a long time.
Tropes:
• Former best friends to enemies to lovers
• Second Chance
• Bi Awakening
• Forced proximity
• Hockey romance
• Found family
• Teammate banter
• Low angst
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