Around and Around We Go

Vermont Trailblazers #2

by Amy Aislin

When you’re facing The End, it’s time to rewind to the beginning.

At thirty-eight years old, Sandro Zanetti is quickly aging out of hockey. But the Trailblazers are chasing a history-making third consecutive championship this season, so until his knees fail him, he plans on giving his all to the sport.

What he doesn’t need is the documentary film crew following the team’s every move. Because the director? Is Bennett Jackson.

Former college sweetheart.
Breaker of hearts.
Still unbearably handsome.

But their relationship is also history and has been for fifteen years.

Bennett Jackson is one project away from the credits rolling on his career after his last film flopped. This behind-the-scenes look at the hottest team in the league is his last chance at redemption…and possibly his last chance at redeeming himself with the one man who’s always held his heart.

Neither of them planned for old jokes to resurface or on the inconvenient fact that their chemistry is very much alive.

But as the action heats up on and off the ice—and on and off camera—their reunion looks less like a rerun of heartbreak and more like a revival of that first chemistry.

And Sandro and Bennett may discover that some stories deserve a sequel.

Genres: Hockey, Romance, Sports, M M Romance, Second Chance, LGBT, Contemporary

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2026

About the author

Amy's lived with her head in the clouds since she first picked up a book as a child, and being fluent in two languages means she's read a lot of books! She first picked up a pen on a rainy day in fourth grade when her class had to stay inside for recess. Tales of treasure hunts with her classmates eventually morphed into love stories between men, and she's been writing ever since. She writes evenings and weekends—or whenever she isn't at her full-time day job saving the planet at Canada's largest environmental non-profit.

An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter

Reviews

[Jessie (thatchickwithabook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a perfectly good book but it just felt like it was missing something. I can’t put my finger on what, but there was just a missing sparkle that Amy’s books usually have.

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

She did it again. Amy Aislin charmed me again. Gah, I loved this one.

Sandro Zanetti is one of Trailblazer's OG. In fact he appeared for the first time ALL THE WAY BACK to Roman's book Shots on Goal (released back in 2020) as his teammate in Trailblazers' first NHL season.

Here's the first mention of him:
He flew toward the action and stole the puck from Montreal before anyone had a chance to react and sent it off toward Zanetti. Zanetti, the Trailblazers’ top scorer along with Ritz, weaved his way between two Montreal players

Here, Sandro Zanetti is 38 years old - a lot of experience behind him. Two of his original teammates have retired (Roman and Kasper). Sandro thinks that he still has a couple of more years in him - but he also think about what he will do next. What is his future if his not a hockey player? Then Roman assigned him as a mentor and on top of that... Bennett Jackson - former lover turned heartbreaker when he walked out on Sandro - is back on his life.

Like I said, I LOVED THIS BOOK. I love second chance romance, LOVE THEM, CRAVE for them. This one is one that is done right. I loved how Sandro and Bennett reconnect - older and well, wiser than they were when they were twenties.

Yes, Bennett walked out on Sandro but he was crushed under pressure, not knowing how to say anything, not wanting to bring Sandro down with him. And Sandro, back then, was shooting to the top, also not knowing how to talk the right way, to help out.

I loved that - because sometimes, when you are NOT in the same situation, or never face the same situation, you cannot relate. You can't always give the right advice. The other person will still think that you're not helping!. Sandro learns that when he is assigned a rookie. He needs to listen - and now that he has experience he knows how to relate and understand what happened to Bennett all those years ago.

And Bennett also don't want to let this second chance go, this time around. So I loved him for fighting this relationship this time. To stick with Sandro no matter what.

It wasn't as angst and emotionally consuming like Walking on Broken Paths - I didn't shed tears this time *LOL*. And I can't wait to read Eli's story (Sandro's assigned rookie). He almost stole the book from Sandro and Bennett!

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute story but the dialogue is tough to read sometimes, people just don't talk like that 🥲 but happy feelings achieved so job done

[Lady Macbeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
This was a nice addition to the Vermont Trailblazers series and finally we get to know what happened to Sandro and Bennett years ago.

In the previous book we had a glimpse of Sandro's shock and hurt in seeing Bennett again and discovering he was going to do a docu-series about the Trailblazers. This story starts several months later, when Bennett is ready to start filming and the two of them find themselves in a sort of forced proximity situation.

Sandro is 38 years old and at the verge of retiring from hockey without knowing anything about his future as an ex-player. He's not ready to let go of the game, even if physically, he's in a lot of pain after games and practices. He's offered the role of mentor of one of the younger players, Eli, and, despite his grumpiness, he's very good at it.

Bennett is 38 too, he lives in LA and he's a filmmaker. He's trying to regain his boss' trust after his last job didn't get a lot of success. He's ready to make amends with Sandro and the documentary about the hockey players is his idea. He hopes that he can get close again to him and become friends again.

Fifteen years before they were two college students and then hockey players very much in love, ready to build a future together, but after a very hard and stressful rookie season, Bennett decided to retire from the game and to break up with Sandro too.
He never gave him any kind of explanation, he just never contacted him again.

What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Bennett's reasons for leaving hockey were very much valid, he made the best decision for him and his mental wellbeing. I also get why he didn't want to drag Sandro down with all his problems (even if, in reality, that should have been Sandro's choice).
But I didn't like his decision to disappear: by doing that, he condemned Sandro to years of not knowing, of always wondering what he did wrong, of never being able to move on from the love of this life.
The part when Sandro said he had a stellar rookie season while was devastated inside really hurt me. And so did the part when he said he thought Bennett was dead, until he called his mom and begged her to tell her where he was.
Yeah, no. You don't do this to the man you love and then you show up 15 years later asking to be listened to
And honestly, when Sandro realised what Bennett went through and started blaming himself for not being a good boyfriend really annoyed me. Like, suddenly, Sandro's hurt never mattered anymore.

The side characters are great and I can't wait to read Eli's story. I also really really want to know what the deal is between CC and Hughes.

I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow and this is my honest review.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.25 stars

This is the second book in the Vermont Trailblazers series, and it’s not necessary to have read the first in order to enjoy this one. Though Kyle Dabbs, along with the rest of the team, make appearances, this story stands alone just fine. Though, as always with interconnected standalones, it’s nice to have that background before jumping in.

This book is a quintessential story of two guys breaking apart because they were too young, had too much pressure, and didn’t know how to communicate. The author does a good job conveying the hurt that still lingers, but makes it believable as they now take steps forward, first to friends, and then to so much more. It’s relatively low-angst, with no lasting moments that trip them up. This is just a story of two men finding out that they not only still have it bad for each other, but how to actually talk to one another.

f you’re looking for a fun, funny, sweet book, with just a hint of heat, then this is definitely one to check out.

Read Kris’s review in its entirety here.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s just something about Amy’s writing that pulls me in every single time and this book is no different. Sandro and Bennett are both wonderful characters. They fit together in this easy way that shows their history but also how they’ve each grown individually. Bennett’s hope for a second chance is the perfect amount of pining. Sandro on the other hand is more reluctant based on their past but once he realizes that the past doesn’t define them he really lets his love and care for Bennett shine through. They have great banter together too which is always something I love between my MC’s. So many mentions of the mysterious Jimmy from college, who frankly sounds like a riot!

The found family vibes are on point here too! The Trailblazers are woven throughout in so many fun scenes. It makes me wish Bennett’s docu-series was actually real because I know I’d watch it on repeat. I loved the mentorship between Sandro & Eli, along with Sandro’s friendships with Roman and Kas. Overall another fantastic book from Amy, but I truly never had any doubts!

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

This book was a lovely second chance romance that felt like they really were meant to get back together now that they are in better places... We learn a lot about the struggles Bennett went through that lead to their original break up and we see just how well they fit back in each other's lives now that Sandro's career is no longer his entire focus, and how Bennett's career is levelling up. It was lovely to see more of the Trailblazers team dynamic and the found family story running through the team. I can't wait to see more!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amy Aislin's romances never disappoint. Her new release , Around and Around We Go, put a smile on my face. A veteran hockey player on the verge of retiring gets a second chance with his first love . I adored both Ro and Bennett, their banter and chemistry was perfect . 🥰




“Yeah, Ro. The long haul.” Bennett’s smile turned teasing. “Plus, you gave me a Trailblazers hoodie with your name on it. I think that makes this officially official forever and ever, amen.”

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Around and Around We Go by Amy Aislin is the second book in her Vermont Trailblazers series. It is the story of two hockey players who were in love in college but split up when the got to the NFL for a reason one of them didn’t divulge and 15 years later were brought back together and found that they had never forgotten each other or the love they had. Sandro Zanetti and Bennett Jackson met in college at the University of Michigan and the attraction was instant. They both played hockey and were soon living together and spending almost every moment together. After college they both got drafted to the NHL. Bennett went to Chicago and Sandro to Vermont but their rookie experiences were very different. They tried to stay together but Bennett slowly drifted away due to the pressure he was under and Sandro was excelling under the care his team gave him. Then Bennett quit hockey and cut off everything and left Sandro very hurt and wondering what had happened. Life continued and it was 15 years later. Sandro was looking at retirement coming quickly at him and didn’t know what he was going to do outside of hockey. Meanwhile Bennet had become a docuseries director with several successful series but his last one had tanked and his producer, David, was seemingly micromanaging his next venture which was to spend time and do a 6 episode series on the Vermont Trailblazers, which Sandro played for. It had to be as exciting and Bennett was concerned because of what had happened with his last one but he was looking forward to doing it because he knew it could be good. Plus, maybe he could reconnect with Sandro, because he had never forgotten him and he realized it was his fault they had broken up. Bennett and his crew had free access to everything and everyplace the team was so they started in. At first Sandro wanted nothing to do with him but as time went on and he had interviews and saw what Bennett was doing he started thawing and they began to talk. Roman Kinsey was the director of player engagement and worked very hard at developing a great culture with the Trailblazers. They emphasized team unity, being welcoming and inclusive, and developing trust and friendship among the players. He wanted Sandro to start a wellness initiative and he immediately said no, but Roman had seen him working with rookies, especially Eli Parker, and how good he was with mentoring others through the years. They continue to meet and Bennett was there recording. Meanwhile Sandro starts inviting Bennett to different activities and parties with the team and they slowly begin to talk. Eventually the attraction that was still there came to a head and they kissed which led to a hot love scene. While running with Roman and another player Kaz, they talk and Sandro realizes he has to talk about why Bennett broke off their relationship if they want to move forward. When they finally do, they realize they were both at fault and that they loved each other and they vow that things will be different this time. Meanwhile the wellness initiative is moving forward and Bennett agrees with Roman that it would be a good job for Sandro, even one that could continue when he retires. Plus, listening to them engage about what it would involve and how they would move it forward and make a team culture handbook made Bennett realize how to approach the Trailblazers hockey series so it would not only be about chasing the Stanley Cup but also show the truth, flaws and all, and be honest about what everyone goes through as well as the culture that sustains them and helps them be who they are. As the story concludes the docuseries is a success and Sandro and Bennett are moving forward and figuring out their lives together as they are now able to show their love for each other. I really enjoyed this book. There is so much going on between Sandro and Bennett, especially as their lives took different paths after college. Even though it was 15 years they both still loved each other and no one else could take their places. Sandro was very hurt by what Bennett did but when he found out why he knew that he also had a part in their break up. He was slow to warm back up to him but the attraction was still there and soon neither man could fight it. There were some lessons to be learned along the way but in the end, they knew they could solve them as long as they talked and were together. Sandro’s teammates, especially Eli, played a big part in the story and often added some humor and fun. Roman and the wellness initiative were also very important, not only in showing what the Trailblazers were all about, but also adding clarity to Bennett’s docuseries. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories involving hockey where two men break up early in their lives but are brought back together years later and figure out they never lost the feelings they had for each other and find a way to be in love again and not let anything happen to that going forward.

[Samantha Ortega · Rating 5 out of 5]

English below.

FR- Alors alors…. alors je crois que je le dis à chaque fois mais pour moi Amy Aislin est la reine de la romance MM sur le hockey.
J’avais énormément aimé le premier tome de cette série et j’avais hâte de retrouver les Trailblazers et d’en apprendre plus sur Sandro.

Dans Around and around we go, Amy Aislin casse un peu les codes de la romance hockey
Cette fois ci, nous n’avons pas droit à la nouvelle recrue ou au capitaine de l’équipe mais à un joueur plus expérimenté qui approche la fin de sa carrière. Et si ce n’est pas le sujet principal du roman c’est un point qui est évoqué plusieurs fois.

J’avais beaucoup aimé Sandro dans le premier tome même si on ne le voyait pas beaucoup et je l’ai adoré dans ce roman. La plume d’Amy Aslin a vraiment quelque chose de particulier et à chaque fois que je lis un de ses romans je suis complètement sous le charme.

Around and around we go est une histoire de seconde chance, et j’ai aimé que Sandro et Bennett prennent le temps de parler et surtout de s’écouter. J’ai aimé la façon dont leur relation va doucement mais surement renaitre de ses cendres et j’ai vraiment apprécié les deux hommes qu’ils sont devenus.

Comme dans le premier tome j’ai beaucoup aimé tout ce qu’il se passe autour des personnages principaux et surtout tout ce qui concerne les Trailblazers. J’aime voir ce qu’il se passe dans les coulisses et j’ai beaucoup aimé voir le coté un peu plus sombre du sport de haut niveau. Ca aussi c’est quelque chose de rarement abordé dans les romances hockey.



En résumé, encore un très très bon roman d’une auteure qui est clairement un one click pour moi. On a clairement frôlé le coup de coeur.
ENG-So, so… so, I think I say this every time, but for me, Amy Aislin is the queen of MM hockey romance.
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and couldn’t wait to see the Trailblazers again and learn more about Sandro.

In Around and Around We Go, Amy Aislin breaks the mold of the hockey romance genre.
This time, we don’t get the new recruit or the team captain, but a more experienced player nearing the end of his career. And while it’s not the main focus of the novel, it’s a point that comes up several times.

I really liked Sandro in the first book, even though he wasn’t in it much, and I adored him in this novel. Amy Aislin’s writing style is truly unique, and every time I read one of her books, I’m completely captivated.

Around and Around We Go is a story of second chances, and I loved that Sandro and Bennett took the time to talk and, above all, to listen to each other. I loved how their relationship slowly but surely rose from the ashes, and I truly appreciated the two men they became.

As in the first book, I really enjoyed everything that happens around the main characters, especially everything concerning the Trailblazers. I like seeing what goes on behind the scenes, and I really enjoyed seeing the slightly darker side of elite sports. That’s also something rarely explored in hockey romances.

In short, another very, very good novel from an author who is definitely a one-click read for me. It almost became a favorite.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Sandro and Bennett’s story set against the backdrop of the Vermont Trailblazers hockey team, a team with a unique culture which helped play into winning seasons and three Cup wins in a row. Sandro has played with the team since it’s beginning over 15 years ago, he is one of the oldest players on the team, with a body that aches all the time, but with a determination to continue to play “another year or two”. Bennett is a former pro hockey player, and Sandro’s ex from fifteen years ago. Both went to NHL teams after college, but Sandro went to the fledgling Trialblazers and Bennett went to Chicago. Finding the rookie year to be too challenging and stressful, and something he no longer wanted to do, instead of confiding in and leaning on Sandro for support, Bennett pulled back, saying he was “fine” while quietly drowning, until he quit at the end of his first year, breaking up with Sandro at the same time. For fifteen years, Sandro has wondered what happened, what went wrong, why did Bennett dump him with no explanation or further contact?
It is now fifteen years later and Bennett will be around the team spaces and in their faces for the next year while filming a documentary. Sandro dreads seeing Bennett again, but he also wants to know what happened and why, and if any of the old feelings are still there. Bennett wants a chance to apologize and explain what happened, and he secretly hopes there is still a chance for them all these years later.
As expected, the two do rekindle the old feelings, but what is even more important is the understanding and acceptance now, and the way that Bennett’s experiences as a rookie can help as Sandro is tasked with developing a wellness plan for the team, but especially for rookies new to the NHL and all the responsibilities that go along with the role, so many more than just playing hockey well. Eli is a new rookie, designated as a mentee for Sandro, and it turns out many of the things Eli is experiencing kind of mirrors what Bennett went through all those years ago that Sandro never realized. Along with the rebuilding relationship and connection between Sandro and Bennett, there is a special relationship developing between Sandro and Eli in their mentorship as Sandro figures things out that need to be addressed.
The give and take behind the scenes with the cameras and the dynamic among the players, the support that each team member has for the others, all creates this found family that works as a unit, on and off the ice. Bennett fits right in, both because of his history and insight into hockey as well as his dynamic with Sandro. As an aside, loved the little saga with Mr. Wiggles, the history behind him, and the affinity that Sandro seems to have for him, as does Eli. I loved the sense of family that is present throughout, adding so much to the book. I am looking forward to Book 3, Eli’s story, and want to see how he gets his man. This is an entertaining and engaging series if you are a hockey fan and/or a fan of second chance romances, a good choice for an evening read. I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
I’m a sucker for a second-chance story, and these guys had so many unresolved feelings. Sandro is now a 38-year-old hockey player heading towards the end of his career, but he’s not sure what he’s going to do next. He's tired and in pain most of the time, and he is starting to be more of a mentor. He does not do relationships and never really got over his first and only love, who left him broken-hearted.

Fifteen years later, that man is now making a film about his hockey team. Back then, Bennett was a college hockey player as well, but he disappeared from hockey and Sandro’s life without explanation. He had his reasons, but they were a mystery to Sandro.

And now they are back in close proximity with a whole bunch of misunderstandings and mixed-up emotions. And it took a long time for them to actually talk about it. At first, Sandro is just trying to avoid anything, and then when they do start to get on a better footing, it’s like they both try to avoid it so as not to mess anything up.

But I really liked them together. They had good chemistry. I liked that they still had an understanding and appreciation of each other based on their shared past. But they also understood that years had gone by, and that they had changed, and they were interested in seeing how.

But they both have a lot of fear about being hurt again and ending up in the same place where they become important to each other again, and then lose it. And now they’re both older and know what it’s like to live with that loss. And both have pressures and uncertainties about their careers and futures that they are dealing with. Bennett had a tendency to take on things alone and shuts down. Sandro shows up for others, but does not always look out for himself or accept help.

It's a sweet, second-chance romance with shared painful past, hurt/comfort, forced proximity, and found family vibes. This is my first book by this author, and I found her style easy to get into, and it kept my interest enough that I read it in one sitting. There are obvious cameos from other stories, but it was still easy to read as a standalone, and it made me interested in the first book in this series and the next book. I really liked the team culture of the Trailblazers and the way they were using mentoring and support to create a better team.

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[✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC received from author for an honest review

It has been wonderful getting back into the Trailblazers world.

Amy has a way of drawing me right into her stories, making me wish I was up in Vermont with the cast of characters.

I love a good second chance romance, and Bennett and Sandro give us that in spades. Poor Sandro, not knowing for 15 years why Bennett dumped him, Bennett living with that regret for 15 years.

I felt all their emotions spilling out of the pages. The hurt, the anger, the longing and the love that never completely went away.

I adore that Amy's series all overlap in some way, and it is always fun when familiar names pop up.

It is not just a second chance at romance for our lovely boys, it is career redemption and future choices facing them.

I really like that yes, our boys have their issues, but throughout the book, there is not great drama, no 3rd act misunderstanding to tear them apart.

I really do look forward to more of the Trailblazers stories in the future.

[Colleen (colleenreads40) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐

Around and Around We Go is the second book in Amy Aislin’s Vermont Trailblazers series. This book can be enjoyed as an interconnected standalone. Here’s what you can expect from Sandro and Bennett:

📽️ MM contemporary romance
📽️ Third person dual point of view
📽️ Guaranteed happily ever after
📽️ Medium spice
📽️ Professional hockey player and filmmaker
📽️ Second chance romance
📽️ Forced proximity
📽️ Slower burn
📽️ Found family
📽️ Bad breakup

Goodness, where do I even start? Amy’s original series, Stick Side, is where we’re first introduced to the Vermont Trailblazers, a newly formed professional hockey team. Fast-forward 16 years later, and Sandro Zanetti is one of the two original team members still on the active roster (but don’t worry, there’s cameos). Almost all of Amy’s books are set in the same universe, and I don’t know about other readers, but I get emotional seeing the boys all grown up. Roman Kinsey still plays a very active role in the Trailblazers organization, and seeing him all grown up and living his life leaves me feeling some kind of (good) way. But we’re here for Zanetti and Bennett, who haven’t had contact after their nasty and somewhat unexpected breakup a decade and a half earlier.

This was a great second chance romance, and I didn’t want to put it down. Amy’s books always have a warm and fuzzy vibe to them, and Around and Around We Go wasn’t any exception. The second chance romance was balanced out with the shenanigans of the team, and I had a lot of fun with Eli as a supporting character (and I’m thrilled that he’ll be getting his own book). This team is truly a close-knit family and brotherhood. It was cool how the story wove in the documentary process into the plotline of the book, and although I wasn’t sure about Bennett’s producer in the end, I was glad the documentary was able to be made (and weirdly wished I could watch it). Sandro and Bennett had the sweetest happily ever after, and I love that for them.

I received an advanced review copy of this book from Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Romantic Reads and Such · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25*s

I’ve only read one book by Aislin, years ago, which I remember enjoying and funny enough The Play of His Life has a lot of similarities to Around and Around We Go. I guess I have a type :) Here we also get a second chance romance so a lot of the getting to know you moments have already happened. Granted they have been apart for over a decade but the connection & feelings are still there. Which means they might be able to more easily slide into another relationship. Once they address some of their regrets, hurts, and insecurities, of course.

I appreciate that while they have very understandable reactions to their situation, they handle this second chance with care. There’s not a ton of drama as they work thru their past but they also don’t immediately fall into each other’s arms. It takes a day or two ;) OK, it does take a little longer, but Sandro really doesn’t hold on to any negativity from what happened before. So with time they grow closer again, realizing that maybe there could be more there.

While I loved these two together, I think my favorite part is the found family aspect of the Trailblazers. The relationships they’ve formed, the environment they’ve created, allowing them to support each other. To openly ask for what they need. I loved the chirping & teasing that goes hand in hand with the encouragement & help they get from their teammates. This kind of dynamic always makes me smile and this author does it well here.

Aislin hasn’t been on my radar much but I’m going to be changing that. This book was fun and funny, with a good dose of heart and a bit of heat. There’s plenty of appearances by characters from future and past stories, but not in any way that impacts how much I enjoyed this one. It just gave me enough to have me coming back, excited to read more and more :)

**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Bill Bottomley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.

Sandro Zanetti, at 38, is an NHL hockey facing the possibility of retirement within a couple of seasons. Bennett Jackson is a filmmaker directing a series on the Burlington Trailblazers. He has a past with Sandro in that they were boyfriends during college and their rookie year in the NHL. Bennett quit hockey after that year and summarily dumped Sandro without saying why. Fifteen years later, Bennett shows up again in Sandro’s life and upsets his peaceful existence. The latter is offered the opportunity to take over the rookie mentorship and the wellness program that goes with it. While he insists that he’s the wrong man for the job, in fact he’s already doing it. It doesn’t take too long before he’s pining for Bennett and, apart from the romantic relationship between them, he uses Bennett and a couple of teammates to give shape to the rookie and wellness program.

This book has a fair bit of angst, but it doesn’t actually get in the way of the narrative. In fact, it adds to the story’s appeal. The two MCs go through stages of dealing with their shared background. It quickly becomes evident that they never really got over their past relationship, and they dance around each other as they head toward reconciliation. Both also go through difficulties of their own, with Bennett initially clashing with his producer over the direction of the film and Sandro trying to figure out how his program will work. They are well supported by Sandro’s teammates who are more supportive than on many other teams. Mr Wiggles, a pink, one-eyed, and ear-chewed teddy bear also plays an important role. Bennett’s mom makes contributions as well. The Trailblazers are a bit like a small town in their support and gossip.

I find I’m enjoying the books by the author and can happily recommend this one.

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandro and Bennett's romance was a heartfelt second-chance at love. After fifteen years apart, there were so many reasons both men could have had to close themselves off, but instead they took the leap of faith with each other. To be entirely honest, I had a bit of a hard time wrapping my head around Sandro's emotions when Bennett first reappeared in his life. There was at least one interaction that made me think he was going to let anger and bitterness take over, but then it was like a switch flipped and he remembered all the reasons he'd fallen in love in the first place. I found it easy to get invested in Sandro and Bennett's cautious reunion, their friendly banter that translated into hot as heck chemistry. Bennett wanted so desperately to explain himself to Sandro, but he took things at Sandro's pace and didn't pressure him. Outside of the romance, I couldn't have been happier with how much hockey I got to watch and how integral Sandro's teammates were to the story. Sandro's mentorship of Eli in particular brought things full circle, and it was heartwarming to see the team practice their culture of openness and acceptance on and off camera. Part of Sandro's journey was accepting that he wouldn't be a hockey player forever, while Bennett's was about letting go of the need to control everything around him. I was really satisfied by the character growth they both showed throughout the book, and it definitely felt like their relationship brought out the best in each other. It was fitting to end the book with the grand debut of Bennett's Trailblazers documentary, and though Sandro and Bennett are happily settled into a relationship, I'm eager to see which teammate is next to get their HEA!

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandro knows deep down his hockey career is coming to an end but he isn’t ready just yet to call it quits. Especially when he doesn’t know what he wants to do after he retires. And the last thing he needs is for a camera crew to come invade his team’s space while they make a documentary about them. Because while he keeps things close to the chest, part of that reason is because of the guy in charge of the documentary. Bennett. The man he loved when they were in college and had been together for four years before he suddenly ended it. Leaving Sandro heartbroken and confused and wondering what went wrong. Especially when Bennett became impossible to reach. But seeing Bennett again after fifteen years? His heart underneath the pain still tells him his feelings aren’t completely gone. Not yet. And the more time they spend together, the harder it is to resist reigniting their connection. Bennett has never regretted letting Sandro get away. He knows he made a mistake back then. And he knows that he should have talked to Sandro about what he was dealing with rather than try and protect Sandro from Bennett’s own stress. Seeing Sandro again though? All Bennett wants is a chance to explain and maybe a second chance if Sandro will give him one. Adored these two! Your heart hurts for them knowing they were so young and had so much pressure on them and sadly their hearts were sacrificed for a bit. I loved that they had a second chance because it was clear how much they still loved one another and how perfect they were for one another. Loved jumping back into this series and getting to know more of the Trailblazers. Get ready for sweet romance and plenty of team shenanigans. Can’t wait for the next one!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Joyffree · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You ever get everything you want and not know what to do with it?”

This has so much going on.
The stars are Sandro and Bennett, but it's also about the team, and everything that goes into keeping them a family.
The supporting cast, especially Eli (who is so adorkable), brought their A-game, giving us a bit of an emotional rollercoaster.
I could rant for days, I have so much to say, but I am not going to ruin the experience for you
The journey is where all the fun is

“Why would you be repeating the past? Who says the outcome won’t be different this time?”

Truer words were never spoken. And Sandro, Mr. “I am fine”, listened!!
Over a decade ago, Bennett and Sandro thought they would have forever together.
However, life divided their paths, and not in an amicable way.
But she knew what she was doing, even if it wasn't so clear to them at the time.
Fast forward to the present.

Bennett is making a documentary about the team; it's not just a documentary, though, it’s most likely his last chance to save his career.
And maybe, right the past with the man who owns his heart.
Not that he had preplanned that in any way *eye roll*
Sandro may be ghosting him, but Bennett is determined to get a second chance.

When Bennett suddenly reappears after all these years, Sandro does his best to stay away.
His heart was shattered once, and he learned his lesson.
Never again.

Yeah, famous last words, we all know how this ends.
But it is the journey.
The way each brick was knocked down…
That made this such a must-read!

On a side note, reserve your feelings about David until you get to the end.
He may not be the vulture we believe him to be.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet second-chance story that had all the perfect feels. What I love about Ms. Aslin's characters is that they are fleshed out and feel so natural. There is no manufactured angst, just two men who decide a second chance is worth the risk.

Sandro Zanetti, at 38, is nearing the end of his career in the sport he lives for. His knees may be failing a bit, but his heart and soul are still 100% in the game. His hockey team, the Trailblazers, agreed to have a documentary done about their supportive behavior and unity. Naturally, the documentary director is Bennett Jackson, his former love, who left him without an explanation.

Bennett is desperate to make this story a major success. After his recent flop, he has to focus on the filming, and not the hot-as-heck hockey player who is the former love of his life. The more time Sandro and Bennett spend together, the more they seamlessly fall into a pattern of a couple that knows each other better than anyone else. It was a natural progression as they finally got a chance to talk and understand where their heads were at so many years ago. I loved how caring both men were, and there was no need for past accusations and anger.

The story was enlightening about the amount of stress that the rookies go through. I admired how the team worked out a support system for them. A fun addition to this novel is one of the rookies, Eli. He was too funny and adorable for words. I am hoping he gets his turn from Ms. Aslin's talented pen.

If you enjoy a real second-chance story that isn't buried under tons of resentment and bitterness, but focuses on the future, this book will stand out. Happy reading.

*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement*

[Jenn Donald · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 – 4 Stars

I thought this was a sweet second chance story, it was fun and charming and also has a genuine-ness that goes right to the heart. Sandro and Bennett are great characters and I liked that they are a little older, more experienced in life and are now at a point where they get a second chance and are wise enough to see it for what it could be.

When Sandro and Bennett were first together they were young college kids and then headed to the NHL. They had very different experiences and when it became too much for Bennett he walked away from it all, including Sandro. Flash forward to current times and Sandro is still playing hockey but at a point where retirement is coming but he’s still figuring that out, after all his team are the champions and intend on going for it again. This season though there is a documentary being made about the team and Bennett is the filmmaker. The two are face to face with each other for the first time in years and while there’s pain and heartache from the past, it seems there is also still attraction and hope there.

Again, I liked these two, especially once they really opened up to each other and embraced the feelings they still had for each other. They felt like a natural match, great chemistry just supposed to be together. In addition to these two finding their happiness together finally, there are great side characters too, I really liked seeing some familiar names and getting to know other players. I’m definitely hoping there’s more of Eli coming. I also enjoyed how the team focuses on not just winning but building a healthy team that supports each other, I think it sends a great message. Overall, a story I definitely enjoyed and I look forward to more in this series.

[Woodatsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Around and Around we go is a lovely second chance romance about two men who meet again after 15 years and realising neither of them moved on.

Sandro Zanetti's career as a hockey player is coming to an end which kind of scares him as he doesn't really know who he is outside of hockey and no idea what will come next. No time to worry too much about that though because he finds out the producer following the team for a documentary is none other than his ex-boyfriend Bennett. They once loved each other dearly but suddenly, without any explanation Bennett left him which made him anxious to open up his heart to someone else.

Bennett Jackson has always regretted letting Sandro go, not explaining why he had to leave so when he gets the chance to try and make a mends after 15 years, he's taking it. Right from the start it's obvious the love they once felt is still there and they quickly become unseparable again. Bennett even helps Sandro with his rookie mentorship of Eli - who is a blast - and the welness program for the team.

I loved that there was no major drama going on, yes there was some angst but that came more from the things both men needed to sort out for themselves. I loved the banter between the team mates and how they easily accepted Bennett as one of them. It was great seeing CC and Hughes dance around each other, Eli's crush on Nolan (coach Madolora's son) and all the team's shenanigans.

Vermont Trailblazers is a super series and I'm already curious about the next book which will be Eli and Nolan's.

**ARC kindly received from the author via Neon Rainbox Reviews. I'm leaving a voluntary honest review.**

[Manon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good second chance romance. While some characters have appeared in previous books, it's perfectly possible to read this as a stand-alone or just as the second book in the Trailblazer series.

Sandro and Bennett - previous college sweethearts and then Sandro is being dumped with no real explanations.
Both are great characters, Sandro is not keen on having Bennett so close but can't avoid realising that ther is still plenty of unsolved past and lingering attraction. He is coming towards the end of his career but is kind of stuck in limbo of his future.
I like how being pushed into a mentoring role and a new programm he doesn't want but people think he needs is showing him how much there is to him to be discovered about himself as a person.

For Bennett the docuseries is a a second chance after a failed project. He knows there is still a lot to be solved when it comes to his past, the reasons for him dumping Sandro and why his own NHL shot was disasterous.
I love how his experience is one of the pushes Sandro needs to understand why the iniative is so important and how to move it along.

They do fit well together, there is chemistry even when Sandro still is not realising what is in front of him.
Saying that, I would have loved for them to talk about the past before they got more involved. I felt that Bennett holding back was a bit unfair to Sandro.

Like in all Amy's books, you have great secondary characters. Sandro's mentee Eli is shaping up to be a great main one and I love how well he is written.

A great end of the book and I look forward to the next one.

[DebbieReadsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarain, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 2 in the Vermont Trailblazers series. While it can be read as a stand alone to book 1, The Best Parts of Him, I reckon you SHOULD read that book first. Why? Cos it was freaking awesome and so is this one!

Sandro is the oldest player in the team, and until his knees and/or back give out, he'll keep playing cos The Trailblazers are heading for a third consecutive championship this year. He just needs to hold out and put up with this documentary that is being made around them. Bennett is the director. He too, is facing the end of his career if this series tanked as much as the last one. That he is here, facing the love of his life after 15 years? Minor detail, and Bennett just needs to talk to Sandro, if Sandro will let him.

What I noticed while reading this book, (nay, I inhaled this book!) was although it's a hockey based book, there was very little actual on ice descriptions of play. And as a non-sporty person, I absolutely loved that! There are some, but only enough to give you a picture of what's going on, and it's not in great detail. It all made perfect sense to me, as sometimes, I get overwhelmed by the detail and I didn't here and I was able to fully concentrate on Sandro and Bennett.

And they were beautiful, they really were.

I fully understood why Sandro didn't really want to talk to Bennett, off camera, the man was still hurting, even after all this time, but when Sandro allowed Bennett in, finally?? Oh it was truly epic. Sandro made Bennett work for it, he really did.

I loved that Bennett found the theme for the series based on his own experience. Loved how the older Trailblazers were helping the new team members who really were struggling. And that Sandro found his future, along the same thread.

It takes time for the steam to build, and I loved being made to wait for it. This book is more about the emotions of these two men, and giving the other a second chance. Oh Bennett wanted Sandro, he really did, but Sandro wasn't sure about letting him in and I loved that they didn't jump straight back in. 15 years is a long time!

Absolutely cracking follow-up to book 1, and I can't wait to see what comes next. Well, I know who comes next, but I gotta wait so freaking long!

A stunning 5 star read!

*same worded review will appear elsewhere

[Marion · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Vermont Trailblazers series. While it could be read as a standalone, I don't think you can fully appreciate all the characters unless you read the series in order. This is the story of Sandro Zanetti and Bennett Jackson. At thirty-eight years old, Sandro is an established member of the highly successful Trailblazers team. In spite of being close to retirement, Sandro plans on leaving everything on the ice to help the team secure a history making third consecutive championship. Bennett is a documentary film maker who needs a chance for redemption. Both personally and professionally. He and his film crew are going to shadow every move the team makes on their journey to the third championship. Sandro doesn't want the documentary to be done. He doesn't need a shadow while he fights to determine his life after hockey. And he sure doesn't need the college sweetheart who broke his heart and left without a word to be the one documenting it. Because back then, they were both hockey players in the rookie year. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I really enjoyed this book. It is a second chance romance that lets the reader pull back the curtain to see what went wrong the first time in Sandro and Bennett's relationship. As always, there is a lot of team comradery and fellowship. This author has a talent for writing hockey stories that bring right into the world as she writes it. I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Elle Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aislin’s second entry in her Vermont Trailblazers series is an entertaining second-chance romance. Featuring Bennett Jackson, a film maker with a make-it-or-break-it project underway, and Sandro Zanetti, an “aging” (in hockey years) hockey player for the Vermont Trailblazers hockey team, this book gives a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of a successful NHL team.

The two men, at first hurting and distrustful, on guard and keeping each other at arm’s length are nonetheless drawn inextricably together. As Sandro thought, “Could they start fresh? The past would always be there, but that didn’t mean they had to let it define their future”. And isn’t that the very best thing about second chances? The familiarity and shared experiences growing into something new and beautiful is why I’m a sucker for these stories!

The other Trailblazers make the book interesting with their parties and contests and stealing back and forth. The rookie storyline angle is a good one, and the Initiative Sandro agrees to work on sounds like a great first step.

The film-making aspect is also interesting, although Bennett’s boss David seems a bit “difficult”.

But, at the end of the day, the heart and soul of this book is about the amazing relationship between these two men. As Sandro thought to himself: “He and Bennett? They’d always felt like an inevitability” and Aislin did that eventuality justice. 5 stars.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5

Another great story from Amy Aislin!

I’ve been a huge Amy Aislin fan since I read my first book back in 2017 and the fantastic stories just keep on coming - YAY.

I loved listening to this audiobook! I was very fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this one and Aaron Hokanson did a great job performing it.

Fifteen years ago, Sandro and Bennett were boyfriends and then Bennett just left. Sandro doesn’t love Bennett any more but when Bennett shows up in his life again the chemistry is definitely still there.

Second chance stories are one of my very favorite romance tropes and Amy knocks it out of the park with this story (since this is hockey maybe I should say it hits the net? 😊). Once I started listening to this one, I couldn’t stop. Things don’t always go smoothly in this story. Bennett is making a documentary and he has to go through some stuff before it gets completed. Sandro is feeling his age when it comes to his playing hockey but he’s not ready to leave the game yet.

This story is sweet and hot and I loved everything about it. Epilogues are often my favorite part of a book; Amy gives us a great (and hot) one that takes place nine months later. There’s also a cute bonus scene that you won’t want to miss.

An advanced copy of this book/audiobook was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

[Tara Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

MY OPINION: The second book in this series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first. Not a lot of hockey is played in this story, but plenty of learning about the team's humanity.

The trailblazers are different than most teams in that they work very hard to have a supportive family environment. This has been successful for the team with their multiple Stanley Cups; the culture is special. One of our MCs knows this about them and finds himself making a docuseries about the Trailblazers. The fact that his ex-boyfriend is one of them is irrelevant—sort of—to his decision.

When we meet up with these characters, we find out that there have been fifteen years since they broke up, and with that comes plenty of baggage. Walking through the breakup, then a make-up, creates a story about forgiveness and falling back in love.

Sandro and Bennett are great characters who are easy to like. I wanted them to find their way back to each other. While they are working out their stuff, we meet Eli, who stole the story in a lot of ways. I can’t wait to read his story next. As each man learns about the others and themselves.

Overall, this was such a great story, a wonderful addition to the series, and fun to read. Very low angst, great interaction with other characters, and a happily ever after. Pick up these books, they are a wonderful way to relax and enjoy a great couple, their families, and the team.

[Kiki Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently discovered Amy Aislin and am loving her hockey books and the world she creates.
Around and Around We Go is second in her Vermont Trailblazers series and I really enjoyed this second chance story.
At 38, Sandro is nearing the end of his hockey career, even if he doesn’t seem quite ready to admit it. He’s tired, trying to repeat as league champions, dealing with a new mentee, and managing a long list of family commitments. And now, the director of a team-centric “Hard Knocks but make it hockey” series is none other than his college boyfriend Bennett. The man who broke up and ghosted him after their rookie NHL seasons.
There’s so much I loved about this book. Sandro and Bennett never got over each other, and easily fall back into familiar patterns. Having the benefit of age and experience, they are finally able to talk about what happened. Bennett wasn’t a bad guy, just an overwhelmed, stressed out kid with imposter syndrome and no one looking out for him.
Bonus points for Sandro’s next act and the care he shows his teammates. He really does have a heart of gold, and Bennett is a lucky man.
This book is also a love letter to Burlington, a place close to my heart. And there’s also a fun subplot involving Mr. Wiggles, a rather mangey team prize with coveted bragging rights.
There’s romance, steam, intrigue, and (of course) hockey as well as a gorgeous do over and HEA.

[Showarst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Around and Around We Go by Amy Aislin is book 2 in the Vermont Trailblazers series. I really enjoyed book 1 in this series and was looking forward to book 2. Bennett, a filmmaker, is ready to film a six-part series behind the scenes of the Trailblazers. His ex, Sandro, is not very excited to see him. I loved the glimpses into what their relationship looked like when they were together. They cared for each other a lot and it is sad that things ended so poorly. However, once these two opened up, and Bennett was able to apologize and explain what happened so long ago, they became a very sweet couple. I love how Sandro cared about all of his teammates, family, and of course Bennett. I adore Eli and cannot wait to read his story next. I love a good sibling’s ex trope and Eli is such a sweetheart. He deserves someone to put him first.

I really appreciate Amy’s writing and how these two were mature individuals. It would have been very easy for them to name-call and blame each other. But seeing two mature men admit that they both played a part? And that they let go of the past to become something new and strong? That was romantic and inspiring. Sometimes I get so tired of people who are approaching forty acting like they are teenagers and not communicating with each other. Amy is very talented and draws me into any story she writes. I am looking forward to what comes next!

I received an ARC from the author and Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for my honest review.