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Second Overtime
Two years. That’s how long it’s been since Riley Carter vanished from Ethan Cole’s life without explanation. Two years since their last night together—promises whispered, love confessed—before she was gone.
Ethan tried to move on, throwing himself into hockey, into college, into anything that would dull the ache. But every game, every night out, every fleeting distraction just reminded him of the one girl he couldn’t forget.
Now Riley is back. Not just on campus—but on his team, in his house, and in his space. The chemistry is still there. So is the hurt. And the secrets she’s carrying could change everything Ethan thought he knew about the girl who once owned his heart.
Second chances don’t come easy. And if they want one, they’ll have to fight for it—on and off the ice.
Content
This book is intended for adult readers (18+) and contains explicit sexual content, mature language, and adult themes. Please read responsibly. This is not a clean or closed-door romance.
Ethan tried to move on, throwing himself into hockey, into college, into anything that would dull the ache. But every game, every night out, every fleeting distraction just reminded him of the one girl he couldn’t forget.
Now Riley is back. Not just on campus—but on his team, in his house, and in his space. The chemistry is still there. So is the hurt. And the secrets she’s carrying could change everything Ethan thought he knew about the girl who once owned his heart.
Second chances don’t come easy. And if they want one, they’ll have to fight for it—on and off the ice.
Content
This book is intended for adult readers (18+) and contains explicit sexual content, mature language, and adult themes. Please read responsibly. This is not a clean or closed-door romance.
- GenresRomance
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2025
3 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 26, 2025
I never read the first book in this series (I’m going to do that next), but the way Gracie Monroe wrote this story you didn’t need to read it first. The way she thoroughly researched what Riley was going through was evident from the first page. Ethan’s caring nature but stand-off manner in the beginning felt real for two kids. And they are kids. Kids going through some tough times.
The star of this book is Sully. That dog is one of the best therapy dogs I’ve seen in a book before. Loved that she was a Great Dane. Adorable.
So glad I found this author and book and I can’t wait to read more from her.
The star of this book is Sully. That dog is one of the best therapy dogs I’ve seen in a book before. Loved that she was a Great Dane. Adorable.
So glad I found this author and book and I can’t wait to read more from her.
January 7, 2026
Love is a Contact Sport
The opening hook is electrifying and pulls you in right from the start. In “Second Overtime” by Gracie Monroe, we discover that Riley disappeared from Ethan’s life without a trace two years ago. Now, she’s back—not just as his teammate on the Penn State hockey team, but she’s also his roommate in the hockey house.
The backstory adds depth. After “First Line” left readers on edge, “Second Overtime” dives straight into action. To truly grasp every check and heartbeat, I strongly encourage you to start with Book One—it’s worth it, even if this book can stand alone.
The setup is charming and irresistible. Riley’s return is a bold power move. With no other housing options in Happy Valley, she and her service dog, Sully, move into the hockey house—with Ethan and the team. On the ice, she’s fiery; with Ethan’s gaze, she’s icy cold.
The conflict is intense and captivating. Ethan’s got questions—where did she go? Why did she leave? What’s up with the service dog? And why here, of all places? Juggling his “big man on campus” image and the distracting chaos off the rink, finding answers isn’t easy.
When Penn State’s quarterback—a kindred spirit with secrets of his own—gets close to Riley, Ethan’s jealousy ignites. Yet, their past keeps them frozen… until buried truths surface and long-held feelings melt the ice.
The stakes are sky-high. In a world of slap shots and second chances, Riley and Ethan must confront their ghosts to discover if their love can survive overtime.
Perfect for readers who adore:
• Forced proximity & second-chance romances
• Sports stories filled with high-stakes emotion
• Deep characters and secret revelations
• A slow burn that fuels a heart-racing climax
I highly suggest that you grab a copy and see if Riley and Ethan can turn their icy history into a fresh start—before the final buzzer sounds.
The opening hook is electrifying and pulls you in right from the start. In “Second Overtime” by Gracie Monroe, we discover that Riley disappeared from Ethan’s life without a trace two years ago. Now, she’s back—not just as his teammate on the Penn State hockey team, but she’s also his roommate in the hockey house.
The backstory adds depth. After “First Line” left readers on edge, “Second Overtime” dives straight into action. To truly grasp every check and heartbeat, I strongly encourage you to start with Book One—it’s worth it, even if this book can stand alone.
The setup is charming and irresistible. Riley’s return is a bold power move. With no other housing options in Happy Valley, she and her service dog, Sully, move into the hockey house—with Ethan and the team. On the ice, she’s fiery; with Ethan’s gaze, she’s icy cold.
The conflict is intense and captivating. Ethan’s got questions—where did she go? Why did she leave? What’s up with the service dog? And why here, of all places? Juggling his “big man on campus” image and the distracting chaos off the rink, finding answers isn’t easy.
When Penn State’s quarterback—a kindred spirit with secrets of his own—gets close to Riley, Ethan’s jealousy ignites. Yet, their past keeps them frozen… until buried truths surface and long-held feelings melt the ice.
The stakes are sky-high. In a world of slap shots and second chances, Riley and Ethan must confront their ghosts to discover if their love can survive overtime.
Perfect for readers who adore:
• Forced proximity & second-chance romances
• Sports stories filled with high-stakes emotion
• Deep characters and secret revelations
• A slow burn that fuels a heart-racing climax
I highly suggest that you grab a copy and see if Riley and Ethan can turn their icy history into a fresh start—before the final buzzer sounds.
January 7, 2026
Only problem... having to wait for part 3!
The first installment was good and definitely set up the story, but second overtime is fire. Its the right amount of hope and dread over powering the underlying truths. Some dramatic irony made me yell at Ethan to figure it out already! Connect the dots! Ugh. But when it finally came to head (somewhat like expected) the outcome was just the story telling I needed to want more!
My problem know is waiting for part three of this trilogy! And I need more!
The first installment was good and definitely set up the story, but second overtime is fire. Its the right amount of hope and dread over powering the underlying truths. Some dramatic irony made me yell at Ethan to figure it out already! Connect the dots! Ugh. But when it finally came to head (somewhat like expected) the outcome was just the story telling I needed to want more!
My problem know is waiting for part three of this trilogy! And I need more!
November 21, 2025
recommend it
This book grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. Riley and Ethan’s chemistry is the kind that jumps off the page—messy, addictive, and so full of heart you can’t help rooting for them even when they’re driving each other crazy. Gracie Monroe somehow makes the emotional moments hit just as hard as the swoony ones, and the pacing is chef’s kiss perfect.
I love when a sequel actually builds on the first book instead of stalling, and this one levels up everything—deeper tension, sharper character growth, and scenes that left me smiling like a fool. By the end, I was fully invested and desperate for Book 3.
Gracie Monroe delivered exactly what I wanted: romance, drama, heat, and heart. If you enjoyed Book 1, prepare yourself… this one is even better.
Highly recommend.
This book grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. Riley and Ethan’s chemistry is the kind that jumps off the page—messy, addictive, and so full of heart you can’t help rooting for them even when they’re driving each other crazy. Gracie Monroe somehow makes the emotional moments hit just as hard as the swoony ones, and the pacing is chef’s kiss perfect.
I love when a sequel actually builds on the first book instead of stalling, and this one levels up everything—deeper tension, sharper character growth, and scenes that left me smiling like a fool. By the end, I was fully invested and desperate for Book 3.
Gracie Monroe delivered exactly what I wanted: romance, drama, heat, and heart. If you enjoyed Book 1, prepare yourself… this one is even better.
Highly recommend.
November 12, 2025
Gracie Monroe’s “Second Overtime (The Riley & Ethan Trilogy Book 2)” picks up where the first book in the trilogy, “First Line,” left off. For optimal understanding of “Second Overtime,” reading “First Line” is recommended before moving on to the second installment of her trilogy about young hockey players in love.
Two years after Riley disappeared from Ethan’s life without so much as a “see you around campus,” she reappears as his new teammate on the Penn State ice hockey team. Unable to find housing anywhere else in Happy Valley, Riley and her service dog, Sully, are forced to bunk with Ethan and the rest of the team at the hockey house.
While Riley is red hot on the ice and still scoring hat tricks every time she plays, her relationship with Ethan is colder than the ice on their skate blades. Not knowing what happened to the girl he loved (emotionally and biblically) in high school, where she went for two years, why she never called, why she now requires a service dog, and why, of all the gym joints in the world, she just skated into his, Ethan is filled with questions, but reluctant to stop being a big man on campus until he gets some answers.
When Riley is befriended by Penn State’s quarterback, a kindred spirit with a secret affliction that matches Riley’s, Ethan’s jealousy starts to show through, but there are still all those horny chicks to keep happy in the valley, so his relationship with Riley remains icy. But then, faces from the past start showing up at Penn State, questions start finding answers, and just as what goes around, comes around like a puck on ice at a hockey rink, true love finds its way back into the lives of Riley and Ethan.
Having read the first two books of the Riley and Ethan trilogy, I found “Second Overtime” to be the better of the two because it was written without the distractions that were present in the first book. I found “Second Overtime” more readable because there were fewer glitches to analyze.
All in all, “Second Overtime” is well written, interesting, and engaging. Hopefully, the final installment of the trilogy will feature a hockey match where Riley doesn’t score yet another hat trick; Riley’s uncle wakes up and finally sees his shadow; and Riley, Sully, and Ethan become a menagerie a trois and live in Happy Valley ever after.
Two years after Riley disappeared from Ethan’s life without so much as a “see you around campus,” she reappears as his new teammate on the Penn State ice hockey team. Unable to find housing anywhere else in Happy Valley, Riley and her service dog, Sully, are forced to bunk with Ethan and the rest of the team at the hockey house.
While Riley is red hot on the ice and still scoring hat tricks every time she plays, her relationship with Ethan is colder than the ice on their skate blades. Not knowing what happened to the girl he loved (emotionally and biblically) in high school, where she went for two years, why she never called, why she now requires a service dog, and why, of all the gym joints in the world, she just skated into his, Ethan is filled with questions, but reluctant to stop being a big man on campus until he gets some answers.
When Riley is befriended by Penn State’s quarterback, a kindred spirit with a secret affliction that matches Riley’s, Ethan’s jealousy starts to show through, but there are still all those horny chicks to keep happy in the valley, so his relationship with Riley remains icy. But then, faces from the past start showing up at Penn State, questions start finding answers, and just as what goes around, comes around like a puck on ice at a hockey rink, true love finds its way back into the lives of Riley and Ethan.
Having read the first two books of the Riley and Ethan trilogy, I found “Second Overtime” to be the better of the two because it was written without the distractions that were present in the first book. I found “Second Overtime” more readable because there were fewer glitches to analyze.
All in all, “Second Overtime” is well written, interesting, and engaging. Hopefully, the final installment of the trilogy will feature a hockey match where Riley doesn’t score yet another hat trick; Riley’s uncle wakes up and finally sees his shadow; and Riley, Sully, and Ethan become a menagerie a trois and live in Happy Valley ever after.
January 7, 2026
When I was in high school, I remember devouring teenage love stories from a series called Couples. Second Overtime immediately took me right back to those books, and honestly, it was a great feeling.
This story reads like one of those classic coming-of-age romance movies from the late 80s and early 90s, like Can’t Buy Me Love or Pretty in Pink.
The author also tells the story from two POVs, bouncing back and forth between the two main characters, and this really works well. Seeing the story unfold from both main characters’ perspectives deepens the conflict and fuels the slow-burning romance. The author does a particularly nice job of showing how one character’s actions or intentions are completely misinterpreted by the other, which is the foundation of every great romantic sitcom and coming-of-age movie. It works just as well on the page.
I did not read Book 1 before starting this, and it did not hurt my experience at all. I never felt lost or confused about the characters or their history. That said, I enjoyed this book so much that I immediately downloaded Book 1 afterward.
The medical issue underlying the story was entirely new to me, and I genuinely did not realize how serious it could be. That element added a unique layer to the plot and raised the emotional stakes in a way I was not expecting, in a good way.
I will admit I do not know anything about college hockey, and I am not sure whether women skating on men’s teams is realistic, but I went with it, and it did not pull me out of the story.
The book does include an 18 plus content warning due to explicit sex scenes. I do not think they were necessary. The emotional core of the story is so strong that it could have worked just as well without that level of graphic detail. In fact, if those scenes had been toned down or excluded, this could have been marketed to a younger audience, roughly ages 13 to 18, as a modern revival of the Couples series. Romance sells on emotion, and this story absolutely delivers. A passionate kiss and the payoff of them finding their way back to each other would have been more than enough.
Overall, this was a delightful, emotionally driven romance. I will be going back to read book one and continue the series.
This story reads like one of those classic coming-of-age romance movies from the late 80s and early 90s, like Can’t Buy Me Love or Pretty in Pink.
The author also tells the story from two POVs, bouncing back and forth between the two main characters, and this really works well. Seeing the story unfold from both main characters’ perspectives deepens the conflict and fuels the slow-burning romance. The author does a particularly nice job of showing how one character’s actions or intentions are completely misinterpreted by the other, which is the foundation of every great romantic sitcom and coming-of-age movie. It works just as well on the page.
I did not read Book 1 before starting this, and it did not hurt my experience at all. I never felt lost or confused about the characters or their history. That said, I enjoyed this book so much that I immediately downloaded Book 1 afterward.
The medical issue underlying the story was entirely new to me, and I genuinely did not realize how serious it could be. That element added a unique layer to the plot and raised the emotional stakes in a way I was not expecting, in a good way.
I will admit I do not know anything about college hockey, and I am not sure whether women skating on men’s teams is realistic, but I went with it, and it did not pull me out of the story.
The book does include an 18 plus content warning due to explicit sex scenes. I do not think they were necessary. The emotional core of the story is so strong that it could have worked just as well without that level of graphic detail. In fact, if those scenes had been toned down or excluded, this could have been marketed to a younger audience, roughly ages 13 to 18, as a modern revival of the Couples series. Romance sells on emotion, and this story absolutely delivers. A passionate kiss and the payoff of them finding their way back to each other would have been more than enough.
Overall, this was a delightful, emotionally driven romance. I will be going back to read book one and continue the series.
December 2, 2025
I read Second Overtime without having read the first book in the series. It didn't matter; I could follow the story perfectly without once wondering who somebody was that I should have met in the earlier book. I was excited to read the book because my daughters are avid hockey players - several teams each, in high school and hoping to play at the college level. There are games most days of the week. So I was delighted to find a romance set in that world.
Riley and Ethan were supposed to attend Penn State together. She vanished without a word, although he somehow found out she was in Boston and was able to follow her hockey achievements there on the Internet. He was left with a broken heart and a burning question: WHY hadn't she continued to fulfill their dream, without telling him anything, and why had she suddenly reappeared, joining his team and moving into the hockey house where he lived?
His clenched-jaw reaction to her, anger but fueled by a love that had never died is portrayed very realistically. Although POV switches between them, so that we can see the truth behind his stark imaginings, we never hear from her what's going on and are drawn to keep reading - in my case, for almost two hours past my normal bedtime until I could finish it and answer all of my questions!
There were two inconsistencies that jumped out at me. At one point, she's advised at least to tell the coach about her situation, to which she agrees instead of noting that the coach already knows. At another point, Ethan alludes to having been intimate with her in their past life and his teammates are shocked and want more - although it appears that they've known his whole story since the beginning of college two years earlier. These are minor and don't knock off a star from what was a truly enjoyable book. I got very invested in the story from within both of their heads and hearts, as well as caught up in the suspense, and I recommend this to all - especially if you love hockey! (At the high school level, football and hockey are not sworn enemies competing for the purses of their would-be fans!)
Riley and Ethan were supposed to attend Penn State together. She vanished without a word, although he somehow found out she was in Boston and was able to follow her hockey achievements there on the Internet. He was left with a broken heart and a burning question: WHY hadn't she continued to fulfill their dream, without telling him anything, and why had she suddenly reappeared, joining his team and moving into the hockey house where he lived?
His clenched-jaw reaction to her, anger but fueled by a love that had never died is portrayed very realistically. Although POV switches between them, so that we can see the truth behind his stark imaginings, we never hear from her what's going on and are drawn to keep reading - in my case, for almost two hours past my normal bedtime until I could finish it and answer all of my questions!
There were two inconsistencies that jumped out at me. At one point, she's advised at least to tell the coach about her situation, to which she agrees instead of noting that the coach already knows. At another point, Ethan alludes to having been intimate with her in their past life and his teammates are shocked and want more - although it appears that they've known his whole story since the beginning of college two years earlier. These are minor and don't knock off a star from what was a truly enjoyable book. I got very invested in the story from within both of their heads and hearts, as well as caught up in the suspense, and I recommend this to all - especially if you love hockey! (At the high school level, football and hockey are not sworn enemies competing for the purses of their would-be fans!)
November 11, 2025
A Heartfelt and Addictive Second Chance Romance
Second Overtime delivers all the emotion and intensity you want from a second-chance love story. Riley and Ethan feel alive on the page, and their history adds a depth that pulls you in from the first chapter. The chemistry between them is immediate, but so is the tension. You can feel every layer of hurt, hope, and unfinished business as they try to navigate life together again.
The author does a great job showing Ethan’s struggle to move on and Riley’s fear of facing the past she ran from. Their reunion is messy in a believable way, and the hockey background gives the story great energy and movement. The scenes on and off the ice keep the pace steady and engaging.
What makes this book stand out is how well the emotional stakes are handled. The romance is sweet and intense, but there is also a deeper story about trust, healing, and learning how to fight for the person who once felt impossible to lose. Riley’s secrets add real weight to the plot, and the payoff feels earned.
Second Overtime is a satisfying and heartfelt continuation of the trilogy. Fans of sports romance, slow burn tension, and second chances will enjoy every chapter.
Second Overtime delivers all the emotion and intensity you want from a second-chance love story. Riley and Ethan feel alive on the page, and their history adds a depth that pulls you in from the first chapter. The chemistry between them is immediate, but so is the tension. You can feel every layer of hurt, hope, and unfinished business as they try to navigate life together again.
The author does a great job showing Ethan’s struggle to move on and Riley’s fear of facing the past she ran from. Their reunion is messy in a believable way, and the hockey background gives the story great energy and movement. The scenes on and off the ice keep the pace steady and engaging.
What makes this book stand out is how well the emotional stakes are handled. The romance is sweet and intense, but there is also a deeper story about trust, healing, and learning how to fight for the person who once felt impossible to lose. Riley’s secrets add real weight to the plot, and the payoff feels earned.
Second Overtime is a satisfying and heartfelt continuation of the trilogy. Fans of sports romance, slow burn tension, and second chances will enjoy every chapter.
November 28, 2025
This emotionally charged story beautifully explores the ache of first love, the weight of unanswered questions, and the hope found in second chances. From the very first chapter, readers are pulled into Ethan and Riley’s world—a world shaped by heartbreak, secrets, and the kind of connection that refuses to fade with time. Ethan’s quiet strength and vulnerability make him incredibly relatable, while Riley’s return adds layers of mystery and longing that keep the pages turning.
The author does a wonderful job portraying young adults facing real emotional challenges—trust, forgiveness, and the fear of reopening old wounds. The hockey setting adds an exciting and refreshing backdrop that blends competition, friendship, and passion seamlessly. This is the kind of romance that lingers in your heart long after the final page.
Highly recommended for readers who love second-chance romance, heartfelt tension, and characters who grow stronger through love and honesty. Many readers will undoubtedly find themselves recommending this book to friends who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories.
The author does a wonderful job portraying young adults facing real emotional challenges—trust, forgiveness, and the fear of reopening old wounds. The hockey setting adds an exciting and refreshing backdrop that blends competition, friendship, and passion seamlessly. This is the kind of romance that lingers in your heart long after the final page.
Highly recommended for readers who love second-chance romance, heartfelt tension, and characters who grow stronger through love and honesty. Many readers will undoubtedly find themselves recommending this book to friends who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories.
December 23, 2025
Second Overtime (The Riley & Ethan Trilogy Book 2) is the kind of sequel that makes the relationship feel bigger—not just hotter.
Two years after Riley disappears without an explanation, she’s suddenly back in Ethan’s world, and there’s no easing into it: same campus, same hockey orbit, and forced proximity that keeps them in each other’s space. The chemistry is still there, but the hurt is too—and that combination drives the tension in a way that felt believable instead of manufactured.
What I liked most is that this book adds real depth to both characters. Ethan’s “trying to move on” doesn’t read like a throwaway line—it feels tied to who he is, how he copes, and what hockey means to him. And Riley’s return isn’t treated like a cheap shock; the secrets she’s carrying create genuine stakes and kept me turning pages without feeling like the author was stalling.
Also: the spice is not subtle. This is absolutely for adults and definitely not closed-door.
If you read Book 1, Book 2 is worth it. It deepens the characters, sharpens the emotional conflict, and leaves you wanting what comes next.
Two years after Riley disappears without an explanation, she’s suddenly back in Ethan’s world, and there’s no easing into it: same campus, same hockey orbit, and forced proximity that keeps them in each other’s space. The chemistry is still there, but the hurt is too—and that combination drives the tension in a way that felt believable instead of manufactured.
What I liked most is that this book adds real depth to both characters. Ethan’s “trying to move on” doesn’t read like a throwaway line—it feels tied to who he is, how he copes, and what hockey means to him. And Riley’s return isn’t treated like a cheap shock; the secrets she’s carrying create genuine stakes and kept me turning pages without feeling like the author was stalling.
Also: the spice is not subtle. This is absolutely for adults and definitely not closed-door.
If you read Book 1, Book 2 is worth it. It deepens the characters, sharpens the emotional conflict, and leaves you wanting what comes next.
January 9, 2026
In book 2, Monroe tosses the reader right back into the characters’ lives, letting us experience all the pain and tension that a lack of communication can bring between two people who still love each other. However, I felt a twinge of disbelief over the circumstances. Would Riley really leave Ethan for so long without any news? I wasn’t given an adequate reason for this prolonged silence, so it felt a bit like being gaslighted for the sake of a story. And if I felt that way, then Ethan’s feelings were totally understandable. Especially since Riley continues to taunt him. She spends hours with another man in her room, knowing that Ethan would assume the worst. No matter what her feelings are at that point, she said she loved Ethan so he deserved an explanation as soon as she reentered his life. 😫😤
Ok, rant over.
I of course enjoyed the book, hence the positive rating. The writing is compulsively readable, the characters well developed, and the diabetes aspect was truly interesting and obviously well researched. As for the steamy scenes…they came late, but were definitely hot.
Ok, rant over.
I of course enjoyed the book, hence the positive rating. The writing is compulsively readable, the characters well developed, and the diabetes aspect was truly interesting and obviously well researched. As for the steamy scenes…they came late, but were definitely hot.
December 17, 2025
First let me say I give five stars very rarely, and I wish I could give this one a 4.5. It's a sweet, easy read with very likeable characters. The author does a great job of bringing you into the story and making you feel a part of the drama. I think reading the first book in the series would've helped me relate more to Riley and Ethan right from the start but not reading it didn't leave me feeling lost. There's not an overload of sports references for those who aren't interested in it, but just enough to give you the sense of the team aspect.
I do feel like some parts were rushed, like the whole resolution between the football and hockey team drama, and the introduction of Milo's girlfriend, but overall, this is a really good read!
I do feel like some parts were rushed, like the whole resolution between the football and hockey team drama, and the introduction of Milo's girlfriend, but overall, this is a really good read!
January 3, 2026
Second Overtime is a solid and engaging continuation of The Riley & Ethan Trilogy, carrying forward the emotional momentum established in the first book. Gracie Monroe does a nice job deepening the relationship dynamics while keeping the story grounded and relatable. The connection between the characters feels sincere, and the emotional beats unfold in a way that keeps you invested in their journey.
The pacing flows smoothly, and the story maintains a good balance between romance, personal growth, and forward movement. It’s an enjoyable installment that builds naturally on what came before and leaves you wanting to see how things continue to evolve. A satisfying and well-written follow-up in the series.
The pacing flows smoothly, and the story maintains a good balance between romance, personal growth, and forward movement. It’s an enjoyable installment that builds naturally on what came before and leaves you wanting to see how things continue to evolve. A satisfying and well-written follow-up in the series.
November 30, 2025
“Second Overtime (The Riley & Ethan Trilogy Book 2)” by Gracie Monroe is a 2nd chance romance tale. High school grad & hockey player Ethan is blindsided when Riley leaves him in the middle of the night, no explanation, no goodbye conversation, nothing. Later, he finds out she moved to Boston. He had chosen to attend Penn State to be with her. In college, Ethan makes new friends and sleeps with many women but the spectre of Riley never leaves him. Then after not seeing her for 2 years, Riley shows up; she is on his hockey team and staying at the same house. This is a well-written, angsty, contemporary romance in alternating first person point of view.
December 10, 2025
Not just a fun hockey romance, Second Overtime tells Riley and Ethan’s story in a grounded, believable way. I liked how their history is woven into every conversation, every misunderstanding, and every moment where it’s clear they’re still trying to protect themselves from old hurt.
The tension between them is steady, and the story balances the messy emotional parts with the fast, competitive energy of the hockey world. I also appreciated that the book doesn’t rush their reconnection—you can actually feel the hesitation, the chemistry, and the pull they’re both trying to ignore.
It’s an addictive read and definitely a standout in the series.
The tension between them is steady, and the story balances the messy emotional parts with the fast, competitive energy of the hockey world. I also appreciated that the book doesn’t rush their reconnection—you can actually feel the hesitation, the chemistry, and the pull they’re both trying to ignore.
It’s an addictive read and definitely a standout in the series.
December 17, 2025
This is an emotionally grounded sports romance that doesn’t shy away from hard truths. The story weaves together elite athletics, chronic illness, and buried trauma with real weight, allowing tension and relationships to unfold slowly rather than relying on easy drama. Riley is a particularly compelling protagonist, resilient, guarded, and painfully human. The bond between teammates feels earned, not idealized. While the narrative can feel heavy at times, the author’s restraint and commitment to realism make the emotional payoff resonate. A good read that handles difficult material with seriousness and care.
January 4, 2026
A second chance at love after experiencing pain and heartbreak
“Second Overtime” delivers an emotional journey following heartbreak, that captures the complexities of love and forgiveness. Riley and Ethan’s story unfolds with raw honesty, showcasing the struggles of rebuilding trust after heartbreak. The hockey setting adds an exciting and dynamic element that enhances the narrative without overshadowing the characters’ development.
The pacing keeps readers hooked, while the authentic dialogue and vivid descriptions bring the story to life. Fans of second-chance romances and sports dramas will find themselves deeply invested in this heartfelt tale of resilience and rediscovery.
“Second Overtime” delivers an emotional journey following heartbreak, that captures the complexities of love and forgiveness. Riley and Ethan’s story unfolds with raw honesty, showcasing the struggles of rebuilding trust after heartbreak. The hockey setting adds an exciting and dynamic element that enhances the narrative without overshadowing the characters’ development.
The pacing keeps readers hooked, while the authentic dialogue and vivid descriptions bring the story to life. Fans of second-chance romances and sports dramas will find themselves deeply invested in this heartfelt tale of resilience and rediscovery.
November 28, 2025
This is the first book I’ve ever read by Gracie Monroe, and honestly, I was hooked way faster than I expected. Second Overtime gave me all the emotional punches I love in a second-chance sports romance—messy history, chemistry that refuses to die, and characters you can’t help rooting for. Riley and Ethan’s journey is raw in the best way, full of heartbreak, tension, and those sweet little moments that sneak up and hit you right in the chest. I tore through it and kept thinking, “Okay wow, this is actually really good.” I’m officially a Gracie Monroe fan now.
December 18, 2025
This was another good read in the series. I have to say though, this WILL check the boxes if you want a fun, guilty pleasure read. This will not check the boxes for a super realistic romance book. This is not necessarily a bad thing though! Go into it knowing you'll have moments of "awww! That's sweet" as well as moments of "omg just TELL him already! " The ending is nice, so give it a try.
October 27, 2025
An unforgettable sequel! Second Overtime had me hooked from the very first page. Riley’s journey is raw, emotional, and deeply empowering. The mix of love, resilience, and fierce competition is everything I love about this series. Beautifully written and impossible to put down—Gracie Monroe has done it again!
October 27, 2025
Heart-pounding, emotional, and unforgettable. I adored First Line, but this sequel took it to another level. Riley’s growth and the intensity of the story kept me glued to the pages. The blend of romance, redemption, and hockey drama was perfection. I finished it in one sitting and immediately wanted more!
December 5, 2025
This second,chance romance hooked me instantly. Ethan and Riley’s chemistry is electric, their history is heartbreaking, and their reunion is packed with tension and passion. The hockey backdrop adds nonstop energy, and Riley’s secrets keep you turning the pages.
A fast, emotional, beautifully written love story.
Highly recommended!
A fast, emotional, beautifully written love story.
Highly recommended!
January 20, 2026
This is the second book in this series and I couldn’t put it down. Finished First Line one day ago and had to move on to this installment to see what happened with Ethan and Riley. After two years of separation, heartache and loss they finally found their way back to each other. I really enjoyed this book I'm eagerly awaiting the third in the series.
November 14, 2025
I’m a complete sucker for the kind of romance and drama that I've discovered in this book.
If you love stories that keep you flipping pages, stressing, swooning, and rooting for the couple even when they’re driving you crazy, this one should definitely make it on your must-read list.
If you love stories that keep you flipping pages, stressing, swooning, and rooting for the couple even when they’re driving you crazy, this one should definitely make it on your must-read list.
October 19, 2025
Second Overtime by Gracie Monroe is a powerful, heartfelt sports romance that pulls you in from page one. Riley and Ethan’s story is emotional, raw, and impossible to put down. Gracie Monroe delivers the perfect mix of passion, heart, and strength—you’ll feel every word and fall completely in love.
October 11, 2025
Loved. Loved. Loved!
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