What do you think?
Rate this book
Power Play
The one who broke him may just be the one who puts him back together.
Kellan O’Reilly’s life is a delicate balancing act. He needs to have a stellar last season to get picked up by an NHL team, not get caught by his coach working an overnight job that he desperately needs to keep to help his family, and, adding even more to his plate, figure out why his new tutor seems to hate him on sight.
Bennett “Wells” Wellington III has done everything that he can to avoid tutoring athletes. So, when he’s forced to help Kellan O’Reilly, the carefully crafted facade he’s worked for years to perfect starts crumbling. Because even if Kellan doesn’t remember him, he’s part of the reason that Wells is unrecognizable as his past self.
Now, it’s Wells that holds the power after all these years, and he has no plans to give it up. The only problem is… Kellan’s nothing like the kid he used to know, and as he tries to make Kellan’s life hell, he’s starting to wonder who’s actually in charge. Or why being with Kellan is suddenly making him feel more like himself than ever before.
As they spend more time together, Wells’ commanding presence and dominating nature unlocks a part of Kellan that’s like a drug to experience. Better than the sleep he desperately needs. More gratifying than the record goals he’s putting up this season. And, honestly, the best sex of his life, hands down.
But Wells seems to hate that he wants him. How can Kellan make him realize that the two of them together could be the best thing that’s ever happened to both of them?
This is a standalone MM romance novel with explicit themes.
Kellan O’Reilly’s life is a delicate balancing act. He needs to have a stellar last season to get picked up by an NHL team, not get caught by his coach working an overnight job that he desperately needs to keep to help his family, and, adding even more to his plate, figure out why his new tutor seems to hate him on sight.
Bennett “Wells” Wellington III has done everything that he can to avoid tutoring athletes. So, when he’s forced to help Kellan O’Reilly, the carefully crafted facade he’s worked for years to perfect starts crumbling. Because even if Kellan doesn’t remember him, he’s part of the reason that Wells is unrecognizable as his past self.
Now, it’s Wells that holds the power after all these years, and he has no plans to give it up. The only problem is… Kellan’s nothing like the kid he used to know, and as he tries to make Kellan’s life hell, he’s starting to wonder who’s actually in charge. Or why being with Kellan is suddenly making him feel more like himself than ever before.
As they spend more time together, Wells’ commanding presence and dominating nature unlocks a part of Kellan that’s like a drug to experience. Better than the sleep he desperately needs. More gratifying than the record goals he’s putting up this season. And, honestly, the best sex of his life, hands down.
But Wells seems to hate that he wants him. How can Kellan make him realize that the two of them together could be the best thing that’s ever happened to both of them?
This is a standalone MM romance novel with explicit themes.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
124 people are currently reading
552 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
November 29, 2025
DNF @ 32%
I don't think I understood why Kellan didn't just tell his coach that he was tired because he was trying to support his family? Was there a clause somewhere I missed that he would lose his scholarship or something if he did? He even mentions later that it isn't illegal for student athletes to have a job, so what's the holdup? I could not believe that he seriously thought his coach would force him to choose between supporting his family vs full commitment to hockey when his coach went through the trouble of helping him get his grades up + explicitly mentioned that he wanted to help.
And I don't understand why Wells took Julie's shit when 1. he was clearly not breaking rules, 2. he could've reported her for her being very antagonistic like she supposedly reported him for some falsehood (and he'd have evidence), and 3. did he even care about the job? He mentioned he didn't need it and that the reason he was at the university in the first place was a misguided attempt at earning his dad's respect (which he specifically acknowledged was a mistake) sooo, why stay and work with a bully and take her shit again? Just because the tutoring service was a place his family name didn't have weight (but conversations later sort of implied otherwise) and it was a good place to meet guys?
Also, wtf was that first sexual encounter? I don't think we gotten enough of a setup for Kellan being attracted to Wells to make that justified. Yeah, he was thinking about Wells a lot, but the way the story told it, it was more curiosity about why Wells hated him and not physical attraction. Them suddenly getting it on after a fight was so out of left field. Then it just continues on to a weird "Kellan needs Wells to tell him what to do" kink that is not at all properly set up. That sort of control kink only works if the person giving up control tries to hold too much control in their regular life (aka control freaks or people with too much responsibilities). Kellan didn't try to control his life, he was trying to make things work despite his lack of it. He was forced to take a job because he had no control over his stepfather leaving. He was forced to take tutoring with Wells because he had no control over who his assigned tutor was. Him submitting to Wells' weirdass dom thing did not make sense because Kellan already had so little control over his life. Don't even get me started on the lack of acknowledgement of the sexual awakening considering Kellan is magically ok with having sex with Wells despite no mentions prior of him being attracted to men.
I DNFed when Wells just suddenly found himself kissing Kellan and then continuing to treat Kellan without anger afterwards. What the fuck happened to bring angry at the guy who bullied him hard enough to develop a hatred for athletes? Where did the animosity go?
Between the lack of explanation for the set up, the lack of justification for the hookup + Kellan's attraction, AND the way Wells just magically drops his hatred, I just couldn't go on.
I don't think I understood why Kellan didn't just tell his coach that he was tired because he was trying to support his family? Was there a clause somewhere I missed that he would lose his scholarship or something if he did? He even mentions later that it isn't illegal for student athletes to have a job, so what's the holdup? I could not believe that he seriously thought his coach would force him to choose between supporting his family vs full commitment to hockey when his coach went through the trouble of helping him get his grades up + explicitly mentioned that he wanted to help.
And I don't understand why Wells took Julie's shit when 1. he was clearly not breaking rules, 2. he could've reported her for her being very antagonistic like she supposedly reported him for some falsehood (and he'd have evidence), and 3. did he even care about the job? He mentioned he didn't need it and that the reason he was at the university in the first place was a misguided attempt at earning his dad's respect (which he specifically acknowledged was a mistake) sooo, why stay and work with a bully and take her shit again? Just because the tutoring service was a place his family name didn't have weight (but conversations later sort of implied otherwise) and it was a good place to meet guys?
Also, wtf was that first sexual encounter? I don't think we gotten enough of a setup for Kellan being attracted to Wells to make that justified. Yeah, he was thinking about Wells a lot, but the way the story told it, it was more curiosity about why Wells hated him and not physical attraction. Them suddenly getting it on after a fight was so out of left field. Then it just continues on to a weird "Kellan needs Wells to tell him what to do" kink that is not at all properly set up. That sort of control kink only works if the person giving up control tries to hold too much control in their regular life (aka control freaks or people with too much responsibilities). Kellan didn't try to control his life, he was trying to make things work despite his lack of it. He was forced to take a job because he had no control over his stepfather leaving. He was forced to take tutoring with Wells because he had no control over who his assigned tutor was. Him submitting to Wells' weirdass dom thing did not make sense because Kellan already had so little control over his life. Don't even get me started on the lack of acknowledgement of the sexual awakening considering Kellan is magically ok with having sex with Wells despite no mentions prior of him being attracted to men.
I DNFed when Wells just suddenly found himself kissing Kellan and then continuing to treat Kellan without anger afterwards. What the fuck happened to bring angry at the guy who bullied him hard enough to develop a hatred for athletes? Where did the animosity go?
Between the lack of explanation for the set up, the lack of justification for the hookup + Kellan's attraction, AND the way Wells just magically drops his hatred, I just couldn't go on.
September 25, 2025
Quick to the 🌶, but a lovely slow burn, on the emotional/romance side. Kellan & Wells have definitely both nestled into a piece of my heart. (Yes, even if I side-eyed Wells the entire first half. lol)
October 12, 2025
ARC READ: I cannot express how much I enjoyed this book. I love a good hockey romance and this one did not disappoint. Kellan & Wells are just so good together. You literally fall in love with them in their own way. I like that their undeniable chemistry wasn’t dragged out. Yeah there was push and pull but they fell so effortlessly, and them learning to just enjoy the now instead of constantly worrying what the future holds for each other. Both have been through some hard times, one not being accepted by his family and the other hiding abuse. But these two together just balance the other out and I love that. This is my first book I’ve read by this author and it most definitely won’t be my last.
September 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this! A promising debut and I would like to read more by this author.
Reasons it isn’t a 4 star: I think some of the concepts weren’t as fully fleshed out as I wanted (the previous bullying, what Wells wanted in his life, etc) and the friendships/hockey could have been expanded more. The pacing was a bit off and the arguments seemed to blow up quickly and I felt like I had missed something.
BUT I really liked it.
Reasons it isn’t a 4 star: I think some of the concepts weren’t as fully fleshed out as I wanted (the previous bullying, what Wells wanted in his life, etc) and the friendships/hockey could have been expanded more. The pacing was a bit off and the arguments seemed to blow up quickly and I felt like I had missed something.
BUT I really liked it.
September 26, 2025
4.5 stars.
Ok I want to rant for a minute, have you ever read a book that made you angry with the tropes? Not because they were there but because you usually hate them and a particular book the author made you love them? Well I have and this is the book. I usually do not like secret identity or “I can’t remember you from before” however in Power Play I loved that level of one sided hate. So many times I thought Wells you’re an idiot for not saying something, it’s going to blow up in your face. You’ll need to read Power Play to see if it did.
Now on to the good stuff. I loved the power dynamics in this one, the big strong hockey player submitted to the tutor and loving it. I also love that the class difference wasn’t something thrown in our faces.
Kellan and Wells relationship developed in 2 fold, insta-lust and then hard earned feelings. I truly don’t think their story would have worked any other way.
Kellan is a star forward hoping to make to the NHL, he wants to take care of his family and is doing so now at the cost of his grades and sleep. His coach makes him see a tutor so he doesn’t lose eligibility his senior year. Enter Wells the tutor who seems to have a hate on for Kellan and athletes in general. This kicks off a relationship that changes each of their lives, through each other they truly find themselves.
There is spice in this book, while it is open door it is not overly detailed and lots happens where we are told about it after.
Why this book isn’t 5 stars for me is that I wish there was more character development and growth with them as a couple, to be clear that isn’t saying there isn’t any, because for obvious reasons there needed to be growth. However as a couple they don’t really talk, I would have liked more conversations about their lives and have seen them together in public (semi-public) with their friends.
Mel McCabe’s debut novel is a great read, I read it in under 24 hours. It is hard to put down. I will be reading everything she puts out in the future.
Ok I want to rant for a minute, have you ever read a book that made you angry with the tropes? Not because they were there but because you usually hate them and a particular book the author made you love them? Well I have and this is the book. I usually do not like secret identity or “I can’t remember you from before” however in Power Play I loved that level of one sided hate. So many times I thought Wells you’re an idiot for not saying something, it’s going to blow up in your face. You’ll need to read Power Play to see if it did.
Now on to the good stuff. I loved the power dynamics in this one, the big strong hockey player submitted to the tutor and loving it. I also love that the class difference wasn’t something thrown in our faces.
Kellan and Wells relationship developed in 2 fold, insta-lust and then hard earned feelings. I truly don’t think their story would have worked any other way.
Kellan is a star forward hoping to make to the NHL, he wants to take care of his family and is doing so now at the cost of his grades and sleep. His coach makes him see a tutor so he doesn’t lose eligibility his senior year. Enter Wells the tutor who seems to have a hate on for Kellan and athletes in general. This kicks off a relationship that changes each of their lives, through each other they truly find themselves.
There is spice in this book, while it is open door it is not overly detailed and lots happens where we are told about it after.
Why this book isn’t 5 stars for me is that I wish there was more character development and growth with them as a couple, to be clear that isn’t saying there isn’t any, because for obvious reasons there needed to be growth. However as a couple they don’t really talk, I would have liked more conversations about their lives and have seen them together in public (semi-public) with their friends.
Mel McCabe’s debut novel is a great read, I read it in under 24 hours. It is hard to put down. I will be reading everything she puts out in the future.
October 20, 2025
⭐4/5⭐
An excellent debut hockey romance by Mel McCabe. It's got everything you could want: spice, slow-burn feelings, insta-lust, brooding men, power play (very straight forward title), and an overall wonderful story.
If you're looking to get into the hockey romance world, look not further. Add Power Play to your tbr ASAP!
Thank you to Mel McCabe and their team for the chance to obtain this ARC
*Will come back to write more detailed review*
An excellent debut hockey romance by Mel McCabe. It's got everything you could want: spice, slow-burn feelings, insta-lust, brooding men, power play (very straight forward title), and an overall wonderful story.
If you're looking to get into the hockey romance world, look not further. Add Power Play to your tbr ASAP!
Thank you to Mel McCabe and their team for the chance to obtain this ARC
*Will come back to write more detailed review*
October 18, 2025
Always happy when I find a new to me author! This debut was amazing. Loved getting to know Kellan & Wells. They both had their share of issues but so glad they were able to heal themselves together.
October 7, 2025
This book had so many of the things I love angst, slow burning love, found family, character development and a hard fought HEA.
Wells wasn’t my favorite character at the beginning of the book but the way the growth of his character developed and the way he showed his love for Killan and his family was amazing.
I’m so glad I got the opportunity to read the ARC for Mel McCabe for her debut book.
Wells wasn’t my favorite character at the beginning of the book but the way the growth of his character developed and the way he showed his love for Killan and his family was amazing.
I’m so glad I got the opportunity to read the ARC for Mel McCabe for her debut book.
October 15, 2025
Congrats to Mel McCabe on the release of this one, you did amazing!
Not gonna lie, I was so in the mood for an MM hockey romance that I started this month with a re-read of Iced Out (I barely ever indulge in re-reads) and even then, I was still craving it so when I saw this ARC pop on my feed I just couldn't resist.
I read this one in no time so it sure kept me captivated. Both characters were super nice, and I loved learning more about them throughout this story. They both had their struggles and quite a heavy past, which made things interesting on how it made them who they are now.
The relationship between these two was very insta-lust but still on the slow burn side on an emotional level, which I enjoyed. There was a big part that was pretty much hate to love with lots of angst, and this is something I always enjoy seeing because the tension is always off the charts. And, the power dynamic between the two was honestly quite delectable.
I particularly loved seeing Wells getting closer to his brother. Also, seeing Kellan with his family was part swoony and heartbreaking. I also quite enjoyed Kellan's teammates, it was all great additions to this story.
I will say though that something that was missing for me, and I think that it comes from the fact that Kellan was so "let's not talk about anything and just go with the flow" was a deeper connection to the characters. While there was a big emotional range to this story I couldn't find myself completely pulled in. It created this lack of depth in the whole story for me because they could have talked things through multiple times but it all felt surface level because there was no big discussions whatsoever.
I also had big expectations on the whole bullying story, like this would be some pivotal moment in their relationship, but it happened so close to the end and was resolved quickly so it was like there was this big buildup for pretty much nothing. I mean it still served the starting point of this hatred and all so that's fine, I just would have hoped it would have come up sooner somehow.
All in all this was a fantastic story and you definitely should try this one out if you enjoy mm romance that will bring you on quite the emotional ride!
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Not gonna lie, I was so in the mood for an MM hockey romance that I started this month with a re-read of Iced Out (I barely ever indulge in re-reads) and even then, I was still craving it so when I saw this ARC pop on my feed I just couldn't resist.
I read this one in no time so it sure kept me captivated. Both characters were super nice, and I loved learning more about them throughout this story. They both had their struggles and quite a heavy past, which made things interesting on how it made them who they are now.
The relationship between these two was very insta-lust but still on the slow burn side on an emotional level, which I enjoyed. There was a big part that was pretty much hate to love with lots of angst, and this is something I always enjoy seeing because the tension is always off the charts. And, the power dynamic between the two was honestly quite delectable.
I particularly loved seeing Wells getting closer to his brother. Also, seeing Kellan with his family was part swoony and heartbreaking. I also quite enjoyed Kellan's teammates, it was all great additions to this story.
I will say though that something that was missing for me, and I think that it comes from the fact that Kellan was so "let's not talk about anything and just go with the flow" was a deeper connection to the characters. While there was a big emotional range to this story I couldn't find myself completely pulled in. It created this lack of depth in the whole story for me because they could have talked things through multiple times but it all felt surface level because there was no big discussions whatsoever.
I also had big expectations on the whole bullying story, like this would be some pivotal moment in their relationship, but it happened so close to the end and was resolved quickly so it was like there was this big buildup for pretty much nothing. I mean it still served the starting point of this hatred and all so that's fine, I just would have hoped it would have come up sooner somehow.
All in all this was a fantastic story and you definitely should try this one out if you enjoy mm romance that will bring you on quite the emotional ride!
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2025
This story delivers everything I love in a romance—angst, redemption, and a hard-earned happily ever after.
Kellan is a college hockey player barely holding it together. Between keeping his scholarship, chasing his NHL dream, and secretly working nights to support his mom and younger brothers, he’s stretched to the breaking point. When his coach assigns him a tutor, it feels like just another burden. He doesn’t expect sparks—especially not with someone who seems to despise him from day one.
Wells, the tutor, comes from money and privilege, but that doesn’t mean his life is easy. He has one rule: never tutor athletes. So when he’s stuck with Kellan—a face from his painful high school past—he’s furious. Kellan doesn’t even remember the bullying Wells endured, which only fuels his resentment. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is for Wells to cling to old hurts, especially when he starts to see how much Kellan has changed.
The sexual tension is undeniable, the emotional pull impossible to ignore. Both men have walls, fears, and past wounds that threaten to destroy what’s growing between them. But as secrets come to light and truths are faced, they’re forced to decide whether love is worth the risk.
A gripping, emotional enemies-to-lovers romance with unforgettable characters and a beautifully hard-earned HEA.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
Kellan is a college hockey player barely holding it together. Between keeping his scholarship, chasing his NHL dream, and secretly working nights to support his mom and younger brothers, he’s stretched to the breaking point. When his coach assigns him a tutor, it feels like just another burden. He doesn’t expect sparks—especially not with someone who seems to despise him from day one.
Wells, the tutor, comes from money and privilege, but that doesn’t mean his life is easy. He has one rule: never tutor athletes. So when he’s stuck with Kellan—a face from his painful high school past—he’s furious. Kellan doesn’t even remember the bullying Wells endured, which only fuels his resentment. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is for Wells to cling to old hurts, especially when he starts to see how much Kellan has changed.
The sexual tension is undeniable, the emotional pull impossible to ignore. Both men have walls, fears, and past wounds that threaten to destroy what’s growing between them. But as secrets come to light and truths are faced, they’re forced to decide whether love is worth the risk.
A gripping, emotional enemies-to-lovers romance with unforgettable characters and a beautifully hard-earned HEA.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
October 19, 2025
ARC Read:
I really enjoyed this story. Wells is for the most part, sure of himself and content with his life thus far. He had barried a lot of his past and his traumas with his family, so he was kind of living in denial.
Kellan is stressed. On top of hockey and senior year of college, he has put it on himself to work and help financially support his mom and two younger brothers. He barely sleeps and because of his lack of focus, his grades start to slip.
Forced together due to Wells's witchy boss and Kellan's coach's orders, they are to study together twice a week. Wells knowing exactly who Kellan is, Kellan not having any idea why Wells seems to hate him on sight.
I wish there would have been more of a conversation about the former bullying. Kellan had brought up that he was a jerk to others when he was younger and going through a top time at home, and Wells had said a little about it, but I feel like they should have spoken to each other more about that. It felt like they got over it really soon. Especially considering how much it had affected Wells. I liked Kellan's easy acceptance of him liking being bossed around by Wells. It made sense considering most of his life he had to make many decisions and call a lot of the shots, so having the ability to let go and have someone else handle it, is definitely relieving.
I really enjoyed this story. Wells is for the most part, sure of himself and content with his life thus far. He had barried a lot of his past and his traumas with his family, so he was kind of living in denial.
Kellan is stressed. On top of hockey and senior year of college, he has put it on himself to work and help financially support his mom and two younger brothers. He barely sleeps and because of his lack of focus, his grades start to slip.
Forced together due to Wells's witchy boss and Kellan's coach's orders, they are to study together twice a week. Wells knowing exactly who Kellan is, Kellan not having any idea why Wells seems to hate him on sight.
I wish there would have been more of a conversation about the former bullying. Kellan had brought up that he was a jerk to others when he was younger and going through a top time at home, and Wells had said a little about it, but I feel like they should have spoken to each other more about that. It felt like they got over it really soon. Especially considering how much it had affected Wells. I liked Kellan's easy acceptance of him liking being bossed around by Wells. It made sense considering most of his life he had to make many decisions and call a lot of the shots, so having the ability to let go and have someone else handle it, is definitely relieving.
October 5, 2025
This debut immediately pulled me in! I was so excited to see how the story would play out, especially knowing Kellan was the ex-bully of our other MMC, Wells. I expected a bit more angst with that setup, but it turned out to be a lighter read overall. It jumps into the spice pretty quickly, while the emotional connection and relationship development take their time which I actually love.
What dropped it to four stars for me was mostly the pacing. There were several time jumps that made me feel like I’d accidentally skipped pages, and the resolution when Kellan finds out who Wells really was from their past felt a little too glossed over. I wish that moment had happened earlier or been given more room to breathe because it had the potential for some delicious angst and emotional payoff.
Still, this was a very strong debut and an enjoyable read. I’ll definitely be picking up more from this author in the future!
What dropped it to four stars for me was mostly the pacing. There were several time jumps that made me feel like I’d accidentally skipped pages, and the resolution when Kellan finds out who Wells really was from their past felt a little too glossed over. I wish that moment had happened earlier or been given more room to breathe because it had the potential for some delicious angst and emotional payoff.
Still, this was a very strong debut and an enjoyable read. I’ll definitely be picking up more from this author in the future!
October 22, 2025
I read for the vibes & the vibes were ✨ Enjoyable ✨
📕: Hockey Player x Tutor
📗: Former Childhood Bully
🌶️: 3
📘: College Hockey
📙: Forced Proximity
Oooo wee, I thought we were going to make it through the whole book without touching one of the the main plot points! Had me worried there for a second, especially since it didn’t really get resolved until the very end.
The pacing? Amazing. The banter? Entertaining. How his bi awakening was presented? Flawless.
I really loved how open Kellan was about his feelings as they developed. And even with their messy history, Wells handled everything pretty well in my opinion. By the end, it wasn’t just about love or identity; it was about understanding yourself, and I think that’s what made this story a good overall read.
🖤Fav Quotes🤍
“Beauty doesn’t have a morality clause, sadly.“
“Push him further. Bend him and break him and then put him back together.“
“Maybe, I’ve considered over the years, that I go wild on an instinctual level for a big, muscled man that I control completely because of my past.”
📕: Hockey Player x Tutor
📗: Former Childhood Bully
🌶️: 3
📘: College Hockey
📙: Forced Proximity
Oooo wee, I thought we were going to make it through the whole book without touching one of the the main plot points! Had me worried there for a second, especially since it didn’t really get resolved until the very end.
The pacing? Amazing. The banter? Entertaining. How his bi awakening was presented? Flawless.
I really loved how open Kellan was about his feelings as they developed. And even with their messy history, Wells handled everything pretty well in my opinion. By the end, it wasn’t just about love or identity; it was about understanding yourself, and I think that’s what made this story a good overall read.
🖤Fav Quotes🤍
“Beauty doesn’t have a morality clause, sadly.“
“Push him further. Bend him and break him and then put him back together.“
“Maybe, I’ve considered over the years, that I go wild on an instinctual level for a big, muscled man that I control completely because of my past.”
October 4, 2025
What a fantastic MM debut!! I was hooked from the start! Kellen & Wells’ chemistry was palpable from the very beginning and I was excited to see how Well would handle his former childhood bully. Both characters had a complicated family history and emotional baggage they were carrying. It was refreshing to see them actually communicating their thoughts & feelings, especially towards the end. I do wish there had been a little more spice but the spice that was there was HOT!!! Overall, it was well paced and completely addictive. I hope to read more MM from this author in the future!
🏒 MM Romance
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Bi- Awakening
🏒 Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒 Nerd/Jock
🏒 Former Childhood Bully
🏒 Slow Burn
🏒 MM Romance
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Bi- Awakening
🏒 Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒 Nerd/Jock
🏒 Former Childhood Bully
🏒 Slow Burn
October 14, 2025
✨ Arc Review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️
Hockey Player
Tutor
M/M
Quick Read
Hockey Romances are one of my favorite books to read so I was excited to sign up and read Power play. I went into this book not knowing what to expect and was I surprised. I really love Wells and Kellan. The topics that the Author touched upon were done beautifully. The spicy 🌶️ scenes were 😋😋😋😋 great. I really could have read 100 more pages about this couple. I love when a book is full of emotions and I can fully feel the depth of the emotions while reading.
Thank you Mel McCabe for allowing me the pleasure of an ARC. I will definitely be adding more books to my collection from this Author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️
Hockey Player
Tutor
M/M
Quick Read
Hockey Romances are one of my favorite books to read so I was excited to sign up and read Power play. I went into this book not knowing what to expect and was I surprised. I really love Wells and Kellan. The topics that the Author touched upon were done beautifully. The spicy 🌶️ scenes were 😋😋😋😋 great. I really could have read 100 more pages about this couple. I love when a book is full of emotions and I can fully feel the depth of the emotions while reading.
Thank you Mel McCabe for allowing me the pleasure of an ARC. I will definitely be adding more books to my collection from this Author.
October 12, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
I went into this book completely blind, and I’m so glad I did. It’s not something I would’ve picked up on my own, but it ended up being a really pleasant surprise.
The backstories of Wells and Kellen were so raw and real. I don’t personally relate to their experiences, but they felt authentic and reflective of things people go through more often than we realize.
A great, emotionally grounding read that leaves you looking at the world and people in general just a little bit different. Some who put up brave facades are not always that brave behind closed doors — I definitely recommend it.
I went into this book completely blind, and I’m so glad I did. It’s not something I would’ve picked up on my own, but it ended up being a really pleasant surprise.
The backstories of Wells and Kellen were so raw and real. I don’t personally relate to their experiences, but they felt authentic and reflective of things people go through more often than we realize.
A great, emotionally grounding read that leaves you looking at the world and people in general just a little bit different. Some who put up brave facades are not always that brave behind closed doors — I definitely recommend it.
November 29, 2025
Power Play is a fantastic MM hockey romance that I couldn't put down!!! I absolutely LOVE this book!! I think the author did a fantastic job with the characters, and the story development. If you enjoy MM Romance, Hockey Romance, Bi awakening, and/ or MMCs that are swoon worthy then I would recommend adding this book to your TBR! This is the first book I've read from this author and I can't wait to get my hands on more of this authors books!!
October 15, 2025
My first book by this author and I loved it! My favorite sport hockey and nerd (tutor). I love how they both stuck up for each other and that Kellan was able to win over Wells. These characters definitely deserved their HEA big time and I love how much Kellan took care of his family. Such an amazing book.
October 25, 2025
Arc review🖤
Power play was such a great read
Kellen and wells
Rich kid
Abused kid
The push and pull
the undeniable attraction.
Ugh good way to get sucks in to a hockey romance. Slow burn, spice and everything Kellen and wells was so nice. Best HEA yet.
Recommend 🖤🖤
Power play was such a great read
Kellen and wells
Rich kid
Abused kid
The push and pull
the undeniable attraction.
Ugh good way to get sucks in to a hockey romance. Slow burn, spice and everything Kellen and wells was so nice. Best HEA yet.
Recommend 🖤🖤
dnf
January 30, 2026jumping ship @ 29%
there’s not really any build up between the two, Kellan is dtf and submit from the word go, even though Wells has been nothing but an ass
also what is with “Why does it have to be Kellan who’s the most perfect sexual partner that I’ve ever met?” ??? …. boy, yall haven’t even done anything yet 🫠
there’s not really any build up between the two, Kellan is dtf and submit from the word go, even though Wells has been nothing but an ass
also what is with “Why does it have to be Kellan who’s the most perfect sexual partner that I’ve ever met?” ??? …. boy, yall haven’t even done anything yet 🫠
October 14, 2025
Super cute, sweet read. I always love a good Hockey Romance but make it a MM Hockey Romance and I'm in LOVE!!!
October 15, 2025
My oh myyyyy🤭 am I ever thankful for being able to Arc read Power Play! This book had me absolutely hooked through the entire read. Will definitely be looking into reading more from Mel!
Read
February 4, 2026DNF @ 8%. Made no sense why the hockey guy couldn't tell his coach he had a job. And I thought the tutor guy pulled a really juvenile stunt at their first meet. Not interested in reading any further.
October 18, 2025
I absolutely ADORE Kellan and Wells! The way their relationship developed throughout the book was great and felt very real and had me kicking my feet! Absolutely recommend!
September 25, 2025
This book was 5 stars for sure! The character building, the love story between Wells and Kellan, the whole story being around trust and finding new versions of themselves.
I loved that the story flowed throughout the book. The spice was definitely somewhat seasoned through the story which was also great to see. Although I’m intrigued about one of the behind closed doors experience with the rope that was mentioned. That would been interesting to see as that would build the foundation of more trust within their relationship.
Seeing how both characters had their own battles to fight in the families separately I loved how both were there for each other when stuff hit the fan in their families. There’s nothing like standing by each other’s side during the tough times.
All in all this book was amazing! This was an ARC that was given to me, and my thoughts and reviews are my own.
I loved that the story flowed throughout the book. The spice was definitely somewhat seasoned through the story which was also great to see. Although I’m intrigued about one of the behind closed doors experience with the rope that was mentioned. That would been interesting to see as that would build the foundation of more trust within their relationship.
Seeing how both characters had their own battles to fight in the families separately I loved how both were there for each other when stuff hit the fan in their families. There’s nothing like standing by each other’s side during the tough times.
All in all this book was amazing! This was an ARC that was given to me, and my thoughts and reviews are my own.
October 21, 2025
What a great MM hockey vs grumpy tutor. Kellen is in his senior year and has what it takes to make it in the big leagues but he’s struggling on and off the ice. Paired with Wells, who can’t stand Kellen.
Sparks fly!! There were a few scenes that had me blushing while fanning myself! This was a fast paced book with lots of angst, redemption and yes happy endings.
I did receive the book as an advanced reader copy
Sparks fly!! There were a few scenes that had me blushing while fanning myself! This was a fast paced book with lots of angst, redemption and yes happy endings.
I did receive the book as an advanced reader copy
October 3, 2025
💭 Quote 💭
“But looking at the world through Kellan’s eyes makes everything feel new and different. He’s given me such a different perspective on life, and it’s changed everything.”
🏒Main Characters 🏒
Kellan O’Reilly
Bennett “Wells” Wellington III
🏒Tropes 🏒
Enemies to lovers
Sports romance (hockey)
Hockey player/ tutor
Former childhood bully
Angsty
Power Dynamic
🤩 Did I love it? Thoughts? 🤩
I loved this book so much.
Kellan was amazing. I cannot say enough good things about him. He stole my heart very quickly. With his personality, his heart and just everything about him made me love him even more. He was funny, sweet and caring and he just exuded this confidence that I just loved. He was clearly struggling to stay above water most days but he never let it really get him down which was inspiring.
Wells, I loved his path to finding a way to allow himself to let go. He had so many walls up, which were understandable with his history, but once he started getting more comfortable with them together, it was just so beautiful to watch him really . I loved seeing his relationship with his brother Carter and how that progressed as we went along with the book. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Kellan with his brothers. His love of his little brothers and taking care of his family was just so amazing and his brothers were adorable. I thought they were just really well done.
I really loved this book. I have no complaints. It was so well done. I loved the story. I loved the plots. I loved the side stories and that the struggle wasn’t only relationship based. There were other things that happened that caused drama, but done so well, not like it was just for drama sake.They are so perfect together. They just made me laugh and cry and just smile and just have such a good time and I love a good book that can make me fall in love with your character so quickly and I truly felt that way for Kellan and Wells.
Not going to lie I kind of wanted it to be a series so that I can see more. I liked meeting Kellan‘s friends, Cooper and Dutch. Their friendship was so sweet. I would be so interested in seeing more from them. Maybe also get some sneak peaks into how Kellan and Wells are doing.
🩵 Would I recommend this Book? 🩵
I would definitely recommend this book. If you are a fan of Sports romance, Enemies-to-lovers vibes and Power dynamics. It was really really good and definitely one of my favorites. I will be buying this book when it comes out because I want this on my shelf. I want to be able to read this again over and over because their story was just so beautiful. It’s been a while since I’ve read a story like this that hit me the way you did and I really loved it so thank you Mel McCabe for the opportunity to read this arc and experiencing this amazing love story that you wrote. Definitely check it out when it comes out in a few weeks.
Go. Buy. Now.
Enjoy reading! 🤩🏒
Book release Day: October 14th,2025
TW:
Themes of poverty, family pressure, secrecy
Past mentions of bullying, mental, and physical abuse; on-page mentions of physical abuse of a child
October 16, 2025
Wells hates Kellan because they have a not-so-great past. One that Wells is forced to confront when Kellan needs tutoring help to stay eligible in hockey and Wells is who he's paired up with. It's hate on sight with Wells but Kellan is oblivious to who Wells is and Wells doesn't tell him. Wells is hot and cold with Kellan and not just because of their history. There's an attraction there and Wells hates it and denies it as much as he can even when things get steamy between them. They embark on a rollercoaster of hot and cold and Wells pushing Kellan away and Kellan not understanding what's happening. All Kellan knows is that Wells gives him peace from his stressful life of hockey, classes, and making sure his family is keeping their heads above water. The power dynamic between Wells and Kellan sexually gives Kellan a break from stress and making hard decisions if only he can get Wells to see how great they are together. I will admit Wells took me a bit to warm up to him but when he starts to let his walls slowly come down and sees that Kellan isn't the kid he used to be when they were freshmen things progress as long as Wells is able to not push away one of the best things to ever happen to him. I loved their relationship when things finally started clearing up between them even though Kellan still doesn't know about the secret Wells is keeping. But I would have loved to see more of them together and doing things. Maybe even meeting and hanging out with friends. They've come so far but seeing instead of just reading about their relationship progressing would have been great. Also, it feels like the author flirted with the power dynamic kink but to me didn't fully execute it fully in the book. There's some good open door spice but not much and a good amount of it starts and then fades to black or the author tells us about it after instead of showing us and since the power play aspect seems to be a big start between them I wish we saw more of it. But I really did love reading this book. I even shed some tears for Wells but mostly for my baby Kellan who had SO much on his shoulders. I'm just glad Wells came along and gave him relief, happiness, and a place to just be. In return, Kellan helped Wells fully accept himself as a gay man instead of the man who tried to live his life on hookups and not having any intimacy with others because of his parents' constant rejection and dislike of his sexuality. Both made each other so happy and they more than deserved their HEA. It seems like the start to more books in this world which I hope happens because I need a Coop book! And maybe even a Carter book. I'll definitely be on the lookout
October 15, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
Power Play by Mel McCabe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (4.5/5 stars)
Thank you to the author for providing a free ARC!
Kellan is doing his best to hold it all together—hockey, classes, and supporting his family. When his grades start to slip, he’s assigned a tutor: Wells, the boy he used to bully years ago.
Wells is ready for revenge… until he realizes that Kellan doesn’t even recognize him (thanks to a major glow-up). But the more time they spend together, the more Wells sees that Kellan isn’t the same person he once was.
As they spend time together, Wells begins to feel like the truest version of himself, while Kellan feels relief in giving up control to domineering Wells. They try to battle their growing attraction to each other, but soon find themselves giving in. Wells has to reconcile wanting someone he thought he hated, while Kellan must convince Wells that they could have a love worth fighting for.
This is one of those books where I found myself highlighting entire giant passages. The writing is beautiful, perfectly capturing the internal struggle Wells goes through as he transitions from wanting revenge on his former bully to falling in love with Kellan. Similarly, the frustration Kellan felt over his family dynamics seemed to leap off the page as I was reading.
What stood out most were the refreshing dynamics:
💪 Two large, masculine MMCs, especially Wells, as he wasn't an athlete
🧠 The “nerdy” tutor dominating the athlete, not just mentally, but physically and emotionally
🏒 Kellan owning up to his past as a bully instead of brushing it aside
Everything about this story felt authentic and heartfelt, making it one of my favorite MM romances of the year. I enthusiastically recommend Power Play to anyone seeking a former bully MM romance with tender moments and plenty of emotional depth.
For fans of: 🏒 College hockey romance | 🔥 Enemies to lovers | 📚 Tutor/tutee | ⚡ Power dynamics | 🚪 Forced proximity | 💔 Former childhood bully | 💪 Masculine MMCs
#PowerPlay #MelMcCabe #MMRomance #CollegeHockeyRomance #EnemiesToLovers #TutorRomance #QueerRomance #SpicyBookstagram #EmotionalRomance #RomanceReaders #Bookstagram #RomanceBookstagram #ARCReview
Power Play by Mel McCabe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (4.5/5 stars)
Thank you to the author for providing a free ARC!
Kellan is doing his best to hold it all together—hockey, classes, and supporting his family. When his grades start to slip, he’s assigned a tutor: Wells, the boy he used to bully years ago.
Wells is ready for revenge… until he realizes that Kellan doesn’t even recognize him (thanks to a major glow-up). But the more time they spend together, the more Wells sees that Kellan isn’t the same person he once was.
As they spend time together, Wells begins to feel like the truest version of himself, while Kellan feels relief in giving up control to domineering Wells. They try to battle their growing attraction to each other, but soon find themselves giving in. Wells has to reconcile wanting someone he thought he hated, while Kellan must convince Wells that they could have a love worth fighting for.
This is one of those books where I found myself highlighting entire giant passages. The writing is beautiful, perfectly capturing the internal struggle Wells goes through as he transitions from wanting revenge on his former bully to falling in love with Kellan. Similarly, the frustration Kellan felt over his family dynamics seemed to leap off the page as I was reading.
What stood out most were the refreshing dynamics:
💪 Two large, masculine MMCs, especially Wells, as he wasn't an athlete
🧠 The “nerdy” tutor dominating the athlete, not just mentally, but physically and emotionally
🏒 Kellan owning up to his past as a bully instead of brushing it aside
Everything about this story felt authentic and heartfelt, making it one of my favorite MM romances of the year. I enthusiastically recommend Power Play to anyone seeking a former bully MM romance with tender moments and plenty of emotional depth.
For fans of: 🏒 College hockey romance | 🔥 Enemies to lovers | 📚 Tutor/tutee | ⚡ Power dynamics | 🚪 Forced proximity | 💔 Former childhood bully | 💪 Masculine MMCs
#PowerPlay #MelMcCabe #MMRomance #CollegeHockeyRomance #EnemiesToLovers #TutorRomance #QueerRomance #SpicyBookstagram #EmotionalRomance #RomanceReaders #Bookstagram #RomanceBookstagram #ARCReview
October 17, 2025
From the first second they meet in the tutoring office Wells and Kellan have chemistry … this all consuming, nothing-else-is-important-anymore-chemistry. Holy moly! 🔥
Aaand they have history, only one of them seems to remember …
Wells hides his struggles with his past and his toxic family behind this big wall of arrogance and I-am-better-than-anyone-attitude – grumpy rich black cat I would call him. But you know what, sometimes they do need some love and affection too … oh, and a cute, obedient golden retriever doesn’t hurt either. Right? 😉
And then there’s Kellan, former bully – but let me tell you, he had his reasons, sad ones 🥺 – and rising hockey star. And he is busy. Busy, busy, busy. Even too busy for a breakdown. Hockey practice, gym, late night shifts to pay his family’s bills, worrying about his younger siblings, dropping grades. But now there’s his tutor Wells, who helps him to let go, to forget his struggles for a moment. 🔥
Despite Kellan’s traumatic past and Wells’ family issues the story didn’t feel heavy at all. From a certain point it was truly a comfort read – when the MMCs started to trust and supported each other. 🥰
And Wells and Kellan communicate. Hallelujah! They challenge, tease each other, they flirt, banter and talk quite open about their feelings. I loved that part! 🙌
I just wished there was a little bit more … hate?! A little bit more push from Wells before he pulled Kellan in. The bullying clearly traumatized him, but he was over it a little too fast – it felt like there was something missing. Idk 🤷🏻♀️
That being said, overall I really enjoyed this book. It’s a cute, steamy (a touch of kink (d/s) between the sheets), rather fast-paced story about past wounds, secrets, redemption, development, self-acceptance and … oh my gosh, I nearly forgot the side characters 🤯
Wells’ brother Carter and Kellan’s sweet little brothers, Kellan’s teammates Dutch and Coop and last but most certainly not least Reed, Wells’ best buddy. I absolutely loved this guy and his comments! 🤣 So, there is definitely potential for more books in this world. Just saying! 🤭
Power Play is fun and lovely and yeah, just read it and see for yourself! 🥰💜
Aaand they have history, only one of them seems to remember …
Wells hides his struggles with his past and his toxic family behind this big wall of arrogance and I-am-better-than-anyone-attitude – grumpy rich black cat I would call him. But you know what, sometimes they do need some love and affection too … oh, and a cute, obedient golden retriever doesn’t hurt either. Right? 😉
And then there’s Kellan, former bully – but let me tell you, he had his reasons, sad ones 🥺 – and rising hockey star. And he is busy. Busy, busy, busy. Even too busy for a breakdown. Hockey practice, gym, late night shifts to pay his family’s bills, worrying about his younger siblings, dropping grades. But now there’s his tutor Wells, who helps him to let go, to forget his struggles for a moment. 🔥
Despite Kellan’s traumatic past and Wells’ family issues the story didn’t feel heavy at all. From a certain point it was truly a comfort read – when the MMCs started to trust and supported each other. 🥰
And Wells and Kellan communicate. Hallelujah! They challenge, tease each other, they flirt, banter and talk quite open about their feelings. I loved that part! 🙌
I just wished there was a little bit more … hate?! A little bit more push from Wells before he pulled Kellan in. The bullying clearly traumatized him, but he was over it a little too fast – it felt like there was something missing. Idk 🤷🏻♀️
That being said, overall I really enjoyed this book. It’s a cute, steamy (a touch of kink (d/s) between the sheets), rather fast-paced story about past wounds, secrets, redemption, development, self-acceptance and … oh my gosh, I nearly forgot the side characters 🤯
Wells’ brother Carter and Kellan’s sweet little brothers, Kellan’s teammates Dutch and Coop and last but most certainly not least Reed, Wells’ best buddy. I absolutely loved this guy and his comments! 🤣 So, there is definitely potential for more books in this world. Just saying! 🤭
Power Play is fun and lovely and yeah, just read it and see for yourself! 🥰💜
Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews