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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
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April 9, 2026
Listened to audio April 2026
Alexander Cendese does another phenomenal job of narrating this fabulous story. He brings Nico and Packy to life and through his voice and Ryan and Josh’s writing I can picture them too.
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
Alexander Cendese does another phenomenal job of narrating this fabulous story. He brings Nico and Packy to life and through his voice and Ryan and Josh’s writing I can picture them too.
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
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 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 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 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
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 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 31, 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. ☺️
April 1, 2026
This book delivers a gripping second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance packed with tension and unresolved emotion. Nico and Packy’s history feels raw and believable, with years of hurt and pride fuelling their rivalry. The forced proximity of the PR tour is the perfect setup, pushing them to confront what really happened—and what they’ve been avoiding.
Their chemistry is undeniable, simmering beneath sharp banter and lingering glances, while the added pressure of public scrutiny raises the stakes. As truths begin to surface, the story balances angst with vulnerability beautifully.
Emotional, messy, and addictive, this is a compelling read about love, pride, and second chances.
Their chemistry is undeniable, simmering beneath sharp banter and lingering glances, while the added pressure of public scrutiny raises the stakes. As truths begin to surface, the story balances angst with vulnerability beautifully.
Emotional, messy, and addictive, this is a compelling read about love, pride, and second chances.
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.”
April 18, 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 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?
April 14, 2026
Another masterpiece by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood! This review was collected as part of receiving an advance copy.
This book focuses on the story of Kirby “Packy” Pacquette and Nico Rossi. Playing hockey in Michigan, they were inseparable. They were best friends and that chemistry was evident on and off the ice. It was when they went pro that everything turned into a giant mess. Lines were crossed, leading to an enormous fight and falling out.
Seven years later, the Hockey Federation of North America (HFNA) is in big trouble. The commissioner is calling on a select set of players to embark upon a PR tour. They will work in pairs, bringing light to the HFNA by supporting hockey efforts across North America. After finding out that they will be paired together, Packy and Nico are forced to face their troubled past. Both sides vehemently argue against being paired with the other, saying it will never work. As they spend more time together, they start to wonder…what if the past had it all wrong?
Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood have a knack for developing characters. They have rich, realistic personalities. Their vivid descriptions make the reader feel like they have a front row seat to the story. Relationships are never linear, and Ryan and Josh are masters at giving each character their own unique set of struggles and circumstances.
Packy and Nico (Packo) exchange in some amazing banter throughout the story. The authors do a wonderful job of showing their relationship and how it changes throughout the book. You can’t help but cheer for their characters.
Added bonus…the writers know their hockey, and there’s a great balance of romance in the plot. The story is enjoyable and believable.
If you are a hockey romance fan, you can’t miss out on any of Ryan and Josh’s books! I highly recommend this story and all of their works
This book focuses on the story of Kirby “Packy” Pacquette and Nico Rossi. Playing hockey in Michigan, they were inseparable. They were best friends and that chemistry was evident on and off the ice. It was when they went pro that everything turned into a giant mess. Lines were crossed, leading to an enormous fight and falling out.
Seven years later, the Hockey Federation of North America (HFNA) is in big trouble. The commissioner is calling on a select set of players to embark upon a PR tour. They will work in pairs, bringing light to the HFNA by supporting hockey efforts across North America. After finding out that they will be paired together, Packy and Nico are forced to face their troubled past. Both sides vehemently argue against being paired with the other, saying it will never work. As they spend more time together, they start to wonder…what if the past had it all wrong?
Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood have a knack for developing characters. They have rich, realistic personalities. Their vivid descriptions make the reader feel like they have a front row seat to the story. Relationships are never linear, and Ryan and Josh are masters at giving each character their own unique set of struggles and circumstances.
Packy and Nico (Packo) exchange in some amazing banter throughout the story. The authors do a wonderful job of showing their relationship and how it changes throughout the book. You can’t help but cheer for their characters.
Added bonus…the writers know their hockey, and there’s a great balance of romance in the plot. The story is enjoyable and believable.
If you are a hockey romance fan, you can’t miss out on any of Ryan and Josh’s books! I highly recommend this story and all of their works
April 11, 2026
Nico and Packy had a hate/hate relationship - fighting on the ice and icing each other out the rest of the time. But it wasn't always that way. And when a hockey league publicity project pairs them for weeks of travel together, all bets are off. This book is a wild ride and worth every minute you spend with it. It's about coming to terms with the past, putting away assumptions, and rediscovering what's really important in life. PACKO forever!
I love the way their Buffalo and New York teammates continue their journeys in this book. Ryan and Josh have created a wonderful hockey universe - maybe one day it will come true.
I love the way their Buffalo and New York teammates continue their journeys in this book. Ryan and Josh have created a wonderful hockey universe - maybe one day it will come true.
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 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 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 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. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
April 12, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hidden Power Play is book 5 in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. While a lot of the previous couples are present in the story, this one can be easily be read as a standalone and be fully enjoyed.
This was a beautiful story, beautifully written. We have enemies to lovers, forced proximity, rivals on the ice, second chance... And while it might seem like a lot of stuff is going on, in this case I can say everything was just right.
Nico and Packy's story felt deeply relatable, on how they came to be enemies, how they reconciled and how their story developed. The bi-awakening part of the story especially was treated with a kind of care and realism that it's hardly encountered in this type of stories.
The ending felt super earned, and all the steps throughout the story were completely in line with character development and never rushed or out of place.
The spice was pretty hot, and I really enjoyed how the physical dynamic between the characters helped develop the plot, but didn't feel out of place or gratuitous.
Overall, this was an incredible read, and I'll be sure to check out other books by these authors.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hidden Power Play is book 5 in the Buffalo Warriors Hockey series. While a lot of the previous couples are present in the story, this one can be easily be read as a standalone and be fully enjoyed.
This was a beautiful story, beautifully written. We have enemies to lovers, forced proximity, rivals on the ice, second chance... And while it might seem like a lot of stuff is going on, in this case I can say everything was just right.
Nico and Packy's story felt deeply relatable, on how they came to be enemies, how they reconciled and how their story developed. The bi-awakening part of the story especially was treated with a kind of care and realism that it's hardly encountered in this type of stories.
The ending felt super earned, and all the steps throughout the story were completely in line with character development and never rushed or out of place.
The spice was pretty hot, and I really enjoyed how the physical dynamic between the characters helped develop the plot, but didn't feel out of place or gratuitous.
Overall, this was an incredible read, and I'll be sure to check out other books by these authors.
April 12, 2026
Friends to rivals to much more
Another fantastic book from Ryan and Joshua. Their books are easily some of my favorites and must read as soon as they come out. Nix and Pack meet in college and become best friends and teammates. A misunderstanding divides them and makes them rivals for many years until they are forced to work together. Highly recommend this book and all their other books.
Another fantastic book from Ryan and Joshua. Their books are easily some of my favorites and must read as soon as they come out. Nix and Pack meet in college and become best friends and teammates. A misunderstanding divides them and makes them rivals for many years until they are forced to work together. Highly recommend this book and all their other books.
April 10, 2026
I read this book as an arc. I loved it! It was friends to enemies to lovers at its finest! These men had been best friends and then one made the biggest betrayal one can make and slept with his best friends woman. Once teammates who always played at their best together now were at their most fierce when they faced each other on the ice. The banter 10 of 10 the found family, the dirty talk. Loved it! Can’t wait for more.
April 9, 2026
Definite 5-⭐️. One of the best stories I’ve read. Ryan & Josh have definitely outdone themselves with Hidden Power Play. It had everything you’d want in a book. This is a friends to enemies to lovers, and it does not disappoint. It’s sexy, but it makes you laugh and makes you wanna cry. You truly feel where each of the characters are coming from. One of my favorite lines…”The truth was ready to spill out: I love you, and I want you. I’m scared of losing you.”
April 5, 2026
Two Minutes For Flirting.
Another great story by Ryan and Josh. A roller coaster of emotions from the start. Packy and Nico are both amazing characters and they jump off the pages. They feel so and you are reading their autobiography. That’s why I love Ryan and Josh’s books so much. Their writing is full of heart and soul. They bring their characters together and make them real. This story is no different. 5 Stars.
Another great story by Ryan and Josh. A roller coaster of emotions from the start. Packy and Nico are both amazing characters and they jump off the pages. They feel so and you are reading their autobiography. That’s why I love Ryan and Josh’s books so much. Their writing is full of heart and soul. They bring their characters together and make them real. This story is no different. 5 Stars.
March 30, 2026
An easy five
Why five? Humour - great hash tags - lots of inspiring hockey playing - but mostly because it is about love succeeding despite mixed messages, fear, attraction hidden by misplaced fury, and stubbornness.
Lurking under everything is homophobia, interfering with the progression of natural feelings. Packy and Nix fight these and I so enjoyed all the funny one liners when they are paired together for a publicity tour very very reluctantly. They eventually become a successful duo, supported by positive pubic reactions and I enjoyed their bumpy ride to happiness. Uncertainty and fear does its thing, but loses.
It may be a bit sappy for some, but really, when love triumphs, it is a blast.
Why five? Humour - great hash tags - lots of inspiring hockey playing - but mostly because it is about love succeeding despite mixed messages, fear, attraction hidden by misplaced fury, and stubbornness.
Lurking under everything is homophobia, interfering with the progression of natural feelings. Packy and Nix fight these and I so enjoyed all the funny one liners when they are paired together for a publicity tour very very reluctantly. They eventually become a successful duo, supported by positive pubic reactions and I enjoyed their bumpy ride to happiness. Uncertainty and fear does its thing, but loses.
It may be a bit sappy for some, but really, when love triumphs, it is a blast.
March 26, 2026
Okay, this book was so freaking fun.
It was the perfect blend of heartfelt, great humor, and spice. These two authors (Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood) made an incredible story that was easy to read and kept me hooked from beginning to end. With characters that were easy to love and get invested in, Packy and Nico had me rooting for them from the start. The verbal sparring between these two adorable idiots was hilarious. The tension and build-up up were so deliciously steamy.
Tropes:
MM Hockey
Rom-com
Bi-awakening
Enemies-to-lovers
Rivals
Forced proximity
Opposites attract
Found Family
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you, TAA, Ryan Taylor, & Joshua Harwood, for the opportunity to read this book.
It was the perfect blend of heartfelt, great humor, and spice. These two authors (Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood) made an incredible story that was easy to read and kept me hooked from beginning to end. With characters that were easy to love and get invested in, Packy and Nico had me rooting for them from the start. The verbal sparring between these two adorable idiots was hilarious. The tension and build-up up were so deliciously steamy.
Tropes:
MM Hockey
Rom-com
Bi-awakening
Enemies-to-lovers
Rivals
Forced proximity
Opposites attract
Found Family
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you, TAA, Ryan Taylor, & Joshua Harwood, for the opportunity to read this book.
April 17, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this!
Packy and Nico had so much chemistry straight from the beginning even when they “hated” each other. I’m so happy we got to read about them speaking about the fight and what happened in college and the big misunderstanding, even though some people would see it as lost time - it was nice seeing them say that maybe it was for the best and allowed them to grow. I’m glad by the end Packy was able to show his feelings in front of everyone and wasn’t afraid to speak about his love for Nico like he was for most of the book.
I really loved both the teams shenanigans and loved that they all loved each other so much - we saw this through the chirps as well as the serious moments where the team made sure to comfort them both.
I’m excited for the new series - New York Condors, especially after reading about most of the team in this book. I cant wait to read Kai’s book especially after reading that it’ll be with Oskar who’s a rival teams goalie, but I also I cant wait to read more crumbs of Packy and Nico happy in the same team together!
Packy and Nico had so much chemistry straight from the beginning even when they “hated” each other. I’m so happy we got to read about them speaking about the fight and what happened in college and the big misunderstanding, even though some people would see it as lost time - it was nice seeing them say that maybe it was for the best and allowed them to grow. I’m glad by the end Packy was able to show his feelings in front of everyone and wasn’t afraid to speak about his love for Nico like he was for most of the book.
I really loved both the teams shenanigans and loved that they all loved each other so much - we saw this through the chirps as well as the serious moments where the team made sure to comfort them both.
I’m excited for the new series - New York Condors, especially after reading about most of the team in this book. I cant wait to read Kai’s book especially after reading that it’ll be with Oskar who’s a rival teams goalie, but I also I cant wait to read more crumbs of Packy and Nico happy in the same team together!
April 8, 2026
*Overall Book Rating: 4.5 / 5
*Tropes:
-MM Hockey Romance
-Best Friends to Vicious Rivals to Lovers
-Bi-Awakening
-Forced Proximity
-Found Family
-Miscommunication
-Romcom
*Spiciness: 3.5 / 5
What happens when 2 hockey players who can’t stand each other are forced to go on a PR tour??? Nico and Packy’s story is relatable, hilarious, sweet and full of swoon worthy chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed when their respective teammates teased and chirped them about going viral on social media as “Packo”. And there were times when I wanted to shake them and knock some sense in both the characters so they would communicate better and not be miserable by assuming what the other might be thinking. They both have had some emotional trauma from past relationships which leads them to play too safe, too afraid to talk about future etc. and it resulted in them being awkward during a lot of times throughout their relationship. It was sweet to read that they had a strong support system in form of their respective teammates who helped them see that their fears and insecurities are negatively affecting their relationship. Their road towards HEA was long and full of road blocks but in the end they were able to be together and live a life that was meant for them. That being said if you are looking for spicy MM Hockey romance, give this book a read.
*Tropes:
-MM Hockey Romance
-Best Friends to Vicious Rivals to Lovers
-Bi-Awakening
-Forced Proximity
-Found Family
-Miscommunication
-Romcom
*Spiciness: 3.5 / 5
What happens when 2 hockey players who can’t stand each other are forced to go on a PR tour??? Nico and Packy’s story is relatable, hilarious, sweet and full of swoon worthy chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed when their respective teammates teased and chirped them about going viral on social media as “Packo”. And there were times when I wanted to shake them and knock some sense in both the characters so they would communicate better and not be miserable by assuming what the other might be thinking. They both have had some emotional trauma from past relationships which leads them to play too safe, too afraid to talk about future etc. and it resulted in them being awkward during a lot of times throughout their relationship. It was sweet to read that they had a strong support system in form of their respective teammates who helped them see that their fears and insecurities are negatively affecting their relationship. Their road towards HEA was long and full of road blocks but in the end they were able to be together and live a life that was meant for them. That being said if you are looking for spicy MM Hockey romance, give this book a read.
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