Zero Pucks Given

by Hayden Hall

Seth is the cutest enemy I’ve ever had to conquer.
Enemy might be the wrong word, but he’s the younger brother of my high school rival, and now he’s transferring to Northwood U.
A biology major with a dangerous smile, Seth has never been easy to forget. We’ve had our share of summer flings. And we burned too fast to last.
My life is a mess of victories on ice and empty nights that blur together and taste like ash. I don’t do love. I don’t do mornings after. Whatever heart I had, I left it behind the day Seth and I walked away.
But his return throws me off balance. His brother is watching, but that doesn’t stop us from falling right back into the madness of passion. It’s like it has never stopped.
The moment I see him again, I know I’m already lost.
What used to be a summer mistake is about to destroy my rules.
And it might just save me, too.

Genres: M M Romance, College, Hockey, Sports Romance, Second Chance, Romance, Hockey Romance

216 pages, ebook

Published December 18, 2025

About the author

Gay. Sweet. Steamy.

Hayden Hall writes MM romance novels. He is a boyfriend, a globetrotter, and an avid romance reader.

Hayden's mission is to author a catalog of captivating and steamy MM romance novels which gather a devoted community around the Happily Ever Afters.

His stories are sweet with just the right amount of naughty.

You can get in touch with Hayden on Facebook or through his website at haydenhallwrites.com

Reviews

[Kiandra 🦋]

I fear the love confession made me cry

[J · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't know what has happened to Hall's writing style, but this book has been hard to follow, with prose that's just...weird.

DNF @ 21%

[Monikat · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the stars.

This entire story sent a buzz through me. A continuous electric current of sorts. A worry, an angst. The way Damon and Seth danced around their feelings even while having the most intense love affair. Their banter and lies. The lies they told themselves to mold what they felt into a more comfortable truth. The way I wanted all the truths to break free until they finally did.

Hayden Hall, I'm sitting here applauding you. You shook my emotions and put me on a crazy roller coaster ride. Thank you 🥲🥲🥲

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zero Pucks Given
Arctic Titans, Book 9
Hayden Hall

Seth & Damon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

Second Chance
Brothers rival
Found Family
Low Angst
“It’s always been you”
Hockey / Nerd

Yeah, so Hayden Hall can do no wrong. These books, both The Arctic Titans series and Northwood U series are just so stinking, beautiful, gritty at times, raw, honest, vulnerable. He writes so sensually at times, so poetic. He writes like you are there with them.

Seth and Damon meet after over a year of not seeing each other and instant chemistry, the pull they had, the draw to each other was everything. They clearly cannot stay away from each other.

We begin to see early on that here is more to their story, Seth's older brother does not want Seth anywhere near Damon but does not say why.

Seth and Damon are like two magnets, drawn to each other, despite the outside forces.

They were stunning together. The progression of their relationship was so sweet to watch.

I just love how Hayden writes, his stories are so passionate.

The way they interact, it's so familiar, so intimate. Even just eating lunch on a rooftop, there is a level of comfort and intimacy and knowing between them. It's beautiful. As time goes on, it only develops more.

They are so beautiful, their intimate scenes are written so out of this world, only Hayden can write like that, it's so passionate and sensual, so vulnerable. It's incredible.

I was shocked at the twist at the end with Seth's brother to be honest, I was not expecting that.

I am so glad Seth and Damon have their HEA

Just so beautiful. Damon loved Seth so hard. Beautiful story as usual from Hayden.

[Showarst · Rating 3 out of 5]

Zero Pucks Given by Hayden Hall is book 9 in the Arctic Titans of Northwood U series. I have really enjoyed this series and was excited to see that there was a new one out. The writing on this one felt slightly different from the other books in this series. It felt more poetic and distant. I had a hard time getting to know who Seth and Damon were and why they liked each other. I do hope that we get Nick’s story because he seems like a hurt soul who needs someone to love him completely. I will still pick up the next book in this series should the author choose to return to this universe.

I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.

[Fernanda Parente · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, I love Seth as much as Damon does.
Such a sweet boy
And that love declaration from Damon is tear-jerker...amazing
Highy recomended

[TheBookishK9RN · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hockey Himbo Meets Second-Chance Softness

Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Second Chance Romance • Brother’s Rival • Fake Rivalry • Found Family • Low Angst
⸻

Amazon / Goodreads Review

Damon and Seth absolutely surprised me—in the best way.

Damon is your classic emotionally constipated hockey star: dominant on the ice, hollow off it, running on adrenaline and avoidance. Seth, meanwhile, is the biology-student sweetheart with quiet confidence, a soft heart, and a spine stronger than Damon expects. The contrast between them is where this story shines.

Their history matters here. This isn’t a “we hooked up once” second chance—this is unfinished business. When Seth transfers to Northwood U, the tension snaps back into place instantly. The chemistry is still scorching, but now it’s layered with growth, regret, and that delicious what if we’d done this differently? energy.

What worked really well was the low-angst execution. This book knows what it is: warm, spicy, emotionally satisfying comfort romance with depth but no unnecessary misery. The found-family vibe of the Arctic Titans continues to be a huge win, and Damon’s emotional arc—learning that love doesn’t equal weakness—lands nicely.

What held it back from a full five stars:
At times, the conflict wrapped up a little too cleanly. I wouldn’t have minded digging a bit deeper into Seth’s emotional perspective, especially considering his brother’s role and the past they share.

Still? This was sweet, sexy, and grounding in the way only a good second-chance romance can be. Damon and Seth feel earned—and their HEA is exactly the kind that makes you smile and exhale when you close the book.

[Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝙷𝚎 𝚝𝚊𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚞𝚗𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚔𝚎𝚗 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚜. 𝙸𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚊 𝚏𝚕𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞'𝚍 𝚎𝚡𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚍𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚍𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚊𝚒𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜."

Ohh Damon. You are a multilayered individual for such a youngin. Everyone who looks at Damon thinks what you see if what you get. That may be true for some, but others know that Damon is more than he appears. One of those people who know the real Damon is Seth. The problem? He's the younger brother of Damon's ex best friend turned hockey rival.

"𝚆𝚎 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚠. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚍𝚘 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚊𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚛, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚍𝚘 𝚍𝚎𝚕𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜."

I liked Seth a lot, but he was getting on my nerves when he kept refusing to admit Damon was more than just a playboy. He'd seen first hand how caring and sweet Damon could be with someone he cared about. I know Seth was trying to protect his own heart, but in doing so he was breaking Damon's. I really wanted to throat punch his brother Nick too and I have so say how proud I am of Seth for how he handled things with him at the end.

I liked the epilogue a lot. It made me smile seeing these two still going strong after Damon has graduated and Seth's working on his graduate degree. They both have busy careers, but they always took time for one another and you can't ask for any more than that!

[Mikaela (risqué.romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zero Pucks Given - Hayden Hall
4.5/5✨🌟

* SPOILERS *

I really love the way that Hayden writes because it’s so passionate and just sucks you into the book when you least expect it. I haven’t read all the books in the series but I need to read the ones I’ve missed because man, this was such a good read.

I love me a good enemy to lovers when Damon and Seth’s brother really can’t stand each other, I knew that Seth and Damon were going to be so much fun. Mix it in with secret hooking up and I’m sold.

The spice scenes as always when Hayden writes them are so amazing. They were filled with so much want, love and the way that they were together were everything. The shower scene afterwards was probably one of my favorites because the aftercare is something I always look forward to in a book.

I really love how Damon finally realizes that he’s ready to tell Seth everything after Nick and him talk and is so ready to fight for this man he’s fallen for. I love it when a character is ready for that next step.

I loved the ending as it was super cute. I loved how long he planned it and it happened in the kitchen. Seth’s whole reaction during that scene had me giggling because it was super cute.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Pontiki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damon is into hooking up as a way to try not staying stuck on his summer flings with Seth. They kissed one summer, then parted, then had a fling the next summer, but have been apart another year.

It’s complicated because Seth’s big brother Nick used to be Damon’s best friend, but he hates him now and is against Seth seeing him at all.

For Seth, Damon brings out his adventurous side, as he’s generally a science nerd, but when he arrives at Damon’s school, they agree to hooking up agsin more often.

Neither defines the relationship, both have feelings but are too afraid to say anything. Of course, Nick finds out, and Seth is too worried about the fallout, so he breaks up with Damon. Damon doesn’t want to come between the siblings, so he doesn’t fight it.

It’s only when Damon realizes he needs to talk to Nick and they sort out some things that he’s ready to take the risk and fight for Seth. They manage to finally express their feelings and agree they were both idiots.

I enjoyed this book, lots of spice, but some sweetness, too, though less than others in this series. Seth is fun and open to trying to match the cocky hockey player in their escapades, which always revs up Damon.

I received this ARC for free and am happy to write my honest review with appreciation.

[This.Girl.Readss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love returning to Northwood U! This is book 9 in the series but can be read as a standalone, with appearances from past characters. I loved the characters in this book! Seth and Damon had great chemistry and fun banter! They had history together that neither of them had really gotten over so they are drawn together very quickly. There was so much emotion and passion between them it was clear how much they loved each other. The only thing standing in their way is Seth’s brother and the mystery surrounding his hatred of Damon. This was a sweet and steamy read that has great character development and an interesting storyline. It’s one I will definitely read again.

• Brothers Rival
• Second Chance Romance
• Jock x Nerd

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first thought after finishing this book was, “Aww, our Hayden is a romantic.” Zero Pucks Given was cute, sweet, and romantic as hell.
I loved this book so much. I loved the relationship between Damon and Seth. I swear I had a smile on my face from start to finish because of how cute their relationship was, even when they were both in denial. You never know what you’re going to get with the Arctic Titans series—every character is unique, and Hayden has given us every emotion throughout the series. I’m always guaranteed to be completely satisfied after reading one of Hayden’s books. He writes so passionately, and every book draws you in.

[GreenwingReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 9 of the Arctic Titans series, and while I've read a few others from the series, I haven't read all of them. I didn't feel like I was lost at all going into this one having not read them all though. It can be read as a total standalone. The MCs from earlier books didn't play any major roles in this story. it was interesting to finally get Damon's story as I'd seen him before in previous books. He read like a playboy, but he was much more than that. He was brokenhearted and trying to bury it with meaningless encounters.

That said, I did struggle to connect with both Damon and Seth in this book. The writing was great as always, though the style in this one felt a little different. I still really enjoyed it though. I think the disconnect came from frustration. Seth and Damon are heavily influenced by outsiders and Seth especially was frustrating. He allowed his supposed loyalty to his brother Nick to affect his relationship with Damon and keep him from being open about it, but he really seemed to dislike Nick and had no empathy for him. The reason Nick hates Damon isn't revealed until the end of the story and it felt a bit like a letdown. It was the result of a lot of immaturity on Nick's part that Damon was also pulled into. Damon was certainly no angel.

A little communication and confrontation early on could have made a huge difference for all three guys. Ultimately, I actually felt pretty sorry for Nick because it seemed like he really had no one. So I could understand why Seth's relationship with Damon affected him deeply. That isn't to say Nick wasn't an overbearing jerk though.

The thing I really thought was missing was the reconciliation and closure between Seth and Nick. We have to assume it happened, but there is nothing about it on page. Nick and Damon have their confrontation that leads to some closure and reconciliation, but I felt like we really needed to see it between Nick and Seth and didn't.

I really enjoy Hayden as an author, but I think I'm ready to move on from the Arctic Titans. I might return for Nick's story if he gets one (though he isn't a Titan), but I'm not sure I felt enough empathy for him to want to read his story.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Seth and Damon had summer relationships for two years before Damon left for college. Each knew it couldn’t go anywhere, partly the leaving for college thing and also the animosity between Damon and Seth’s brother, Nick. Nick was always warning Seth to keep away from Damon without ever explaining why, but it caused tension between the brothers. When Seth transferred to Northwood U for their biology department, it was inevitable that Damon and Seth would run into each other, and the sparks were still there. Nick was close, but not at the same school, so a hidden relationship began. Both Seth and Damon would fantasize about a life together, but neither believed it to be possible, so each thought there would be an end date, enjoying the time they had together —which was really good. But eventually secrets come out and the bubble bursts. Even with unvoiced strong feelings on both sides, finding their way back to each other will require facing old hurts and wrongs and trying to come back from them.

Damon and Seth had great chemistry, they had a long history that had them able to communicate on most things, just not the most important ones, they could tease each other and the banter was entertaining. The book is told from both points of view, and we eventually get the reason for Nick’s hate, something I wasn’t expecting. The other hockey players in the team house had less of an impact or influence than I would have expected, and there was much less hockey than I expected going in, only between Nick and Damon’s teams. World building helped create pictures in my mind, especially at the cabin and the initial party. Situations were believable, as were the characters, keeping me engaged the entire time.

This has been an entertaining series, and one I wouldn’t mind Hayden returning to at a later date. I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damon doesn’t do relationships or dates, he’s a fuckboy, he just has many many sexy encounters. He lost his heart once, but never again.
Besides his hockey at Northwood U for the next two years, fooling around was more than enough fun.

Seth has an older brother, Nick, who’s okay but way too controlling. Seth is glad to enter Northwood University for the next three years, somewhat away from Nick. Nick knows Damon is also at Northwood U, and doesn’t like that for one bit. For Nick, Damon is bad news.

Damon and Seth had their sweet shared times, but that was in the past. Meeting Seth again at the Alpha Clan’s party, Damon was surprised Damon, what now? Seth was his weakness.
They agree to have regular sex, but, no feelings, and no one can know. Certainly not Nick.
It’s just for fun and secrecy!
Seth played cool, If only Damon, who’s familiar with meaningless sex, knew how Seth felt about him. Ha! Spoiler: Gosh, if only Seth knew!

They are something else together, a perfect combo, but still denying what’s in front of them.
They are completely gone for each other. Stubborn bastards, come on, admit it!
All to protect their vulnerable hearts. All for a brother with issues breathing in their neck. It was somewhat heartbreaking.

The story was so good; there’s a lot of sensuality. Oh my, the writing about scents, gosh, I love that, it’s one of my favorite things to read about. The feelings were all over the place, palpable. Be still, my heart.
This was just a perfect example of how to write a good romance, with pining, spice, humor, healing, second chances, and all the sweetness.

A winner!

Review also on LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of all the Arctic Titans, Damon was the one who I least expected to be a romantic, but I can't deny that his and Seth's journey left me swooning. Their romance took the ex-best friend's brother trope to a different level, and I was eager to devour everything these two could give me. Seth and Damon had that easy banter that only comes from knowing someone inside and out, a natural kind of chemistry that kept pulling them together when they had one very good reason to avoid each other. Oh sure, they each claimed they were only in it for the steamy hookups, but when late nights turned into lingering mornings, not-quite date nights and shared coziness, neither of them protested. Both of them kept their cards close to their chests, but because I got to live in each of their heads I could see how gone they were for each other. Damon was writing poetry in his head about Seth, barely able to keep back those three little words, and Seth was so soft for anything and everything to do with his man. I adored the way they treated each other, how they showed up and loved each other through actions every single day. Nick was the human-shaped obstacle in their path to a happily ever after, and there was no way these two could get there without confronting and overcoming the tension and animosity that had been building for years. I was genuinely unsure they'd be able to do it, and there were some moments where I felt the foundations splintering, but Damon and Seth fought for their love and chose the path of forgiveness instead of letting pride and stubbornness divide them. I am so in love with their love, and the ending of their story left me feeling so content and happy about the future that's in store for them. 

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

[Bill Bottomley · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

This book covers the relationship among a hockey player, a science nerd and the nerd’s brother who is also a hockey player. Damon is in Northwood University playing for the Titans. He had previously had a relationship with Seth, the marine biology nerd who had tried unsuccessfully to get into that same university because, among other things, a great lab. Seth’s brother Nick, Damon’s rival on the ice hates Damon. After a year at a university in Detroit, Seth manages to transfer to Northwood where he and Damon run into each other at a frat party. They take back up their previous relationship, though they have to keeps it secret from Nick since Seth still loves him, despite his controlling nature.

While Nick doesn’t appear often, he is a major presence throughout the relationship. Further, neither Seth nor Damon foresees it lasting longer than the two years remaining before Damon’s graduation and his move to the NHL. Both develop feelings, but they don’t think the other reciprocates them. Nick and the mistaken belief with regard to feelings end up being a source of friction between the two. Damon believes that he is a coward for splitting with Seth. But the two MCs are more complex than that, though we don’t see the full extent of it until near the end. They are nonetheless perfect fits together. While there are several secondary characters, Nick and Silas, Seth’s roommate, are predominant. There are small parts played by Damon’s teammates, but the o0ther two have far more influence on plot development. Through most of the book, the plot seems quite straightforward until it gets more complicated toward the end.

This made for a great read.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
I liked both Seth and Damon, but together, I adored them. They made me smile and laugh with their crazy banter and quirky sense of humor, shake my head at their craziness, obliviousness and lack of sharing true feelings, and they stole my heart with their genuine love - even though it broke a bit with the way they each tried to play every interaction off as inconsequential, when deep down it secretly meant everything to both of them. It took them a long time and a huge blowout before they were ready to admit to themselves and each other that what they had was real love for one another. The epilogue is really sweet and totally on point for them, giving them a long awaited HEA.
Seth's brother Nick was a major factor in keeping our MC's apart as he was the angry, bossy, controlling older brother telling Seth to stay away from Damon who was also Nick's ex best friend. Two secondary characters really stood out as they had significant roles in the overall story. Nick is one, and his whole situation is revealed near the end and is a huge mess, but I feel it was handled in a sensitive way. The other is Silas, who is a whirlwind of chaos that I liked, even though he did something thoughtlessly that ended up affecting both MC's.

The ARC I read still needed a bit of polishing for things like the wrong name and other typos, but that will hopefully be completed for the final copy.
The overall story flowed well, capturing my attention from start to finish, and was enhanced by the characters. It is entertaining, steamy, and emotionally engaging.
I would recommend this book.

I received an ARC, this review is my honest opinion.

[Tara Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

MY OPINION: I’ve read a few of these books and always enjoy the couples. In this case, you don’t really see much of the other couples from the series other than in passing. Overall, I liked these guys and their story.

Damon has wanted Nick’s brother since they were teenagers. Stolen kisses and whispered secrets were constants in their world. When they end up at the same college after being apart for a year, they are drawn together.

Seth was told by his brother to stay away from Damon. He was bad news. If he dated Damon, Nick would make him choose. Seth didn’t want to lose his brother.

The entire book was Seth and Damon sneaking around, telling themselves it wasn’t anything more than enjoying each other physically. Even as they got closer, spending more time together, bonding, falling. The realization that there is more between them means they would have to face Nick, and that wouldn’t happen.

The story was good, and you learn some interesting facts at the end. They do everything they can to avoid those dangerous emotions; it’s not something they are prepared to face. Everything changes when Nick finds out the truth. It was a fun read with some good guys, even though Damon has quite a past.

There was plenty of spice in this book; it’s the one thing that linked them together. Lots of moments of passion and lust. Generally, another book that fits well in the series, I think I have read three of the nine, but I hope to catch up for sure. If you like the series, you are going to enjoy it. If you want a solid college romance with an HEA, this will be a great read for you.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Zero Pucks Given by Hayden Hall takes us back to Northwood U and the Arctic Titans. The book could be read as a standalone, but it is part of a series and other characters do make an appearance. This hockey romance has the brother of an arch nemesis, some love/hate push and pull, second chances, and plenty of steam.

Damon interested me in the previous books because I couldn’t get a good read on him. He seems like a total playboy, but in reality, he’s never gotten over Seth. The problem? Seth is Nick’s brother. Damon and Nick have been enemies for years. But for Damon, that’s not enough to keep him away.

Seth has always been drawn to Damon, and knowing his controlling brother doesn’t like it is more of an incentive than an obstacle. He can’t stay away from Damon though. Even if their time is short. Even if he catches feelings. But he has to decide whether to risk his relationship with his brother or give up on what could be.

I absolutely loved these two characters. Their sense of humor and back and forth banter kept me laughing. Their chemistry was off the charts. Seth brought out a softness in Damon that has been missing in the glimpses we got in other books. Damon encouraged Seth to be himself and go for what makes him happy. They were such a delight to read. I was pleased to see that they didn’t let the “big secret” turn into miscommunication. I really dislike that trope. Nick’s presence is felt throughout, so it’s almost like he’s a third in this relationship even though he’s not seen on page. But now of course I’m interested in his story too! Can’t wait to see where Hall takes readers next.

[Megan McGrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damon & Seth

"I needed him so badly I wanted to crawl under his skin and live there. I wanted us to become one and remain as one."

This book left me on the edge of my seat through the entire read-through. I don't know what it was about these guys but it was sweet and fun and crazy and terrifying and stressful but I wouldn't have changed their story because it fit them perfectly. I didn't really know what to expect when I started this book. For some reason I didn't remember Damon as well from the previous book in this series, but it was easy to fall in love with him while watching him realize and recognize his love for Seth as they developed the relationship around what they thought was just casual.

I love the banter in the story. Both guys were odd and strange with their conversations, but it seemed perfect in a way that you wouldn't expect, especially not knowing the characters much ahead of time. It's always interesting meeting new people and new characters and seeing how the author will shape their story. I loved the little moments between Damon and Seth as they each crumbled a little more under the weight of their feelings for one another and they didn't want to admit what they were feeling because of the restrictions and complications they had in the background but couldn't stop the love because they never wanted to.

Zero Pucks Given was an incredible story. I devoured it all in one sitting in one day and these are characters that will be memorable for some time. I haven't read as many books from the Arctic Titans series yet, but I have read several stories from Hayden Hall and they're all incredible in different ways. This was just another fantastic storyline to build on the universe that he has created with these hockey teams.

I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damon really never got over Seth and their summer flings. Deep down his feelings for Seth are stronger than anything but he can’t let himself dwell on it. Seth is the younger brother of Damon’s high school rival who is holding a grudge with everything he has. So when summer came and they had to part ways, Damon did what he could to bury his feelings. A year of meaningless hooks up could only do so much and Damon is feeling the pain he wanted to bury. But then Seth transfers to Northwood. And suddenly they are in the same place and the pull between them is impossible to resist. And Damon won’t let go this time if he can help it. Seth knows it is a bad idea to start anything with Damon. Not with his rep and the fact that his controlling brother can’t stand Damon. Doesn’t mean Seth ignores the signs and jumps in. He’ll do his best to keep Damon at a distance emotionally, but even he knows that may be impossible. The chemistry between Damon and Seth is off the charts. Their ease with one another and playful banter is adorable. You know they are supposed to be with one another. No questions. No doubt. But there is always some complications and they’ll have to face them soon. But maybe this time they’ll finally fight for what they want. It’s fun going back to this series and this is just another great addition to the series as a whole!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Manon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book, more a college romance with hockey than a hockey romance though.

Seth and Damon are a great couple, it took a while to get into this book but then these two didn't let me stop. Two men who have a shared past, try to do the "it's only physical" thing and failing spectacular at it.

I wasn't convinced I would like Damon, he is the sterotype f*ckboy, love and leave them and absolutely no relationship please. But he really grew on me, he first dismisses his growing feelings and then he is so utterly afraid that Seth won't feel the same that nothing is said.

Seth is on one hand a sweetheart, a nerd as they come, but underneath is someone who is not a pushover.

Both have chemistry and there are plenty of scenes where they heat up the sheets.

The complex situation between Damon, Seth and Seth's brother Nick is like a red thread throughout the story, causing Damon and Seth to always shy away from the last hurdle and acknowleding what is between them.

"We misunderstood each other so many times that we somehow stumbled into love" - that really sums up the book and when Damon does make the first step, it is just so beautiful.

I was surprised by Nick's reasons, it takes a while to find out what actually is going on and I somehow hope we will get a redemption story here.

I missed the hockey and the team, it's on the hockey-lite side.

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 4 out of 5]

ZERO PUCKS GIVEN is the 9th installment in the Arctic Titans of Northwood. It can be read as a standalone without issue.

🏒Second Chance
🏒Forbidden Romance
🏒Hockey Jock/Nerd
🏒Rivals Brother

Damon and Seth have known each other for years. At one time Damon and Seth's brother Nick were friends until something happened and they became enemies and rivals. Seth and Damon have been sneaking away and hooking up during the summer without Nick knowing. When Seth transfers to Northwood he knows he's going to see Damon but he isn't ready for all the feelings to hit him square in his chest. Damon is known as a playboy across campus but when Seth shows up on campus he knows he should stay away but he can't. They both know it will blow up in their faces if Nick ever finds out but they are willing to take the risk for a hookup but do their hears understand they aren't supposed to get involved?

I love these Arctic Titans. Every time I think this one is my favorite Hayden Hall makes the next book even better. Damon and Seth are perfect for each other but have secrets standing in their way neither of them think they can get over. Damon and Seth were so drawn to each other. They were sweet and so sexy together. They deserved that HEA!!

I was given a free copy of this book to read and review by the author.

[Torence Witherspoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of the Arctic Titans Books and you cal always count on the love humor, heat, and depth of the characters personality really well. However, I felt compelled to write this review because this one hit me in a different way than the others. The emotions in this book felt so palpable and nuanced, while also still providing clear character identities specifically through the smart and humorous dialogue. I see other people making comments about the prose here lacking and not understanding these characters, but I think they missed something incredibly significant in the way Hayden wrote these characters. I felt that the dialogue was such smart, witty, comedic writing that also bore the weight of being deeply emblematic of Seth and Damon's dynamic, while also communicating deeper unspoken emotions they could never quite say. Additionally, the third act really hits the emotions hard in both unexpected ways narratively, while also achieving the emotional payoff you need for these boys who constantly had no good options. I hope we get Nick's story because that was more devastating than I thought it would be and the achingly aggressive brokenness of his character was some of Hayden's best work. I cannot imagine the angsty rollercoaster he could take us on, but I feel absolutely confident that he'd deliver.

[Katelyn Colvin · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was mostly a 3 star book until I figured out we buried the lead. The whole book was sort of lackluster, hard to follow, and whatever? It was fine. It wasn’t ground breaking but it wasn’t terrible either. The relationship lacked character, and I felt it was pre-established and picks up right away so there wasn’t all that much angst or true yearning.
The biggest problem in the relationship was Seth’s brother, Nick.
Nick is an overbearing ass and a shadow over Seth and Damon’s relationship because of a mysterious falling out between old friends….

Butttt turns out it’s not really all that simple because Nick has a legitimate reason to hate Damon and we don’t find that out until the end.

Damon was fucking around with Nick, left Nick for Seth, then left Seth to fuck the whole school campus, then meets Seth again and decides he’s in love.

Practically tells Nick “It’s not my fault your mad I left you for your brother, I just didn’t like you all that much” after Nick lays out his insecurities about being left behind by everyone and his unrequited feelings for Damon.

Confesses to Seth, and then also admits he almost messed around with Nick last year “only because he was the closest thing to you” Seth doesn’t end up caring all that much.

Damon’s a scumbag. Seth kind of sucks too? Nick wasn’t innocent but I ended up feeling bad for him more than anyone.

[Kurohagi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!
I didn't see the ending coming at all, it was brilliant.

A beautiful romance, a beautiful relationship between Seth and Damon, which teaches a lesson in honesty and communication. Between the lies and the fear of admitting their feelings, each convinced that they know what the other is thinking, they remain reserved, in constant fear that it will soon be over and verging on disaster.
I loved the dynamic and humor in the relationship between the two men.

A book I recommend with a good dose of humor, moments of unspoken tenderness, steamy scenes, and love on every page

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J'ai adoré !
Je n'ai tellement pas vu venir la fin, c'était brillant.

Une belle romance, une belle relation entre Seth et Damon, qui donne une leçon d'honnêteté et de communication. Entre les mensonges, et la peur d'avouer leurs sentiments, persuadé l'un comme l'autre de savoir ce que "l'autre pense", ils restent sur la réserve, dans la peur constante que ce soit bientôt terminé et frôle le désastre.
J'ai adoré la dynamique et l'humour dans la relation des deux hommes.

Un livre que je recommande avec une bonne dose d'humour, des moments de tendresse inavoués, des scènes torrides et de l'amour à toutes les pages !

[Steve Pardue · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating this book at three stars feels fair given my initial experience. The narrative started with an overwhelming amount of spice. While I appreciate a bit of heated tension, the relentless spicy moments initially eclipsed the plot's depth. Page after page was filled with fiery encounters, which, while vividly described, began to feel excessive.

However, about halfway through, I began to grasp what made the book compelling. The protagonists repeatedly insisted that their relationship was merely a short-term fling—something just for fun. It became increasingly apparent that beneath the surface, both characters were battling their true feelings. The tension escalated as they grappled with their fears, leading to moments that were both relatable and engaging.

The turning point in the story came when the heat transformed into a deeper connection. As the characters moved beyond their surface-level arrangement, the narrative shifted into a realm of vulnerability. They were forced to confront their emotions, compelling them to fight for a happy-ever-after. This journey from sizzling encounters to heartfelt confessions was ultimately what made me appreciate the story. By the end, I found myself fully engaged and rooting for their love story.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars for Damon

The reboot of the Arctic Titans with the newer generation of hockey boys is definitely alive and kicking with Damon's story. We saw him briefly in the previous book and I wanted to know what was behind the shallow persona he was given by the documentary team, and he definitely didn't disappoint.
Damon and Seth's romance was so easy to read. They had so much history, and a connection that neither of them could deny, if pushed, but both told themselves the other didn't feel it. Meeting again after a year, all the old longing and desire resurfaced immediately. Watching them spend time together, a lot of it while steaming up the bedroom windows, falling deeper in love but not saying anything, was as frustrating as it was compelling. It wasn't all hot sex though, with some tender moments that showed their true characters.
Seth's brother, Nick, was an arse and once we learnt the reasons behind his bad behaviour, I didn't feel sorry for him at all, even though I think I was probably meant to. He seems to be the perfect candidate for a redemption arc book but I just don't want him to be redeemed, especially if his man is the one we meet here, who also got right up my nose.
The epilogue was lovely and finished their story perfectly.

[SNik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ninth in series (Arctic Titans of Northwood U), but can be read as a standalone. Brother’s former friend/current rival. Second chance. Dual POV.

Seth is supposed to hate Damon just as much as his brother does, but he can't seem to shake the connection they had in the summers before college even though his brother has warned him away. Damon is aware of his playboy status, but has never forgotten the ethereal feelings he had for Seth, and now Seth is a student at the same school as Damon.

Agreeing to a long term secretive hookup, Damon and Seth embark on something neither wants to define, and can’t see a future to it. It was fun to see Damon and Seth act like they hated each other while gently orbiting their really strong feelings that each continuously denied could be something more. The absolute yearning from Damon to have something more with Seth was heartbreaking, and luckily Seth feels the same. The chemistry is steamy, the way they spend time together swoony, and the fact that they choose each other no matter what to get their HEA was fantastic. 4.5 rounded up