Taking Sides

Moonshot Hockey #3

by Rebecca Jenshak

A high school hockey coach with one firm dating rule meets the quiet pro hockey player who makes breaking it look dangerously tempting in this fun, swoony sports romance from USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Jenshak.

Conrad Shepard is Moonshot Hockey's star defenseman but when it comes to the ladies, he's sitting on the bench.

Despite his teammates’ best attempts at playing wingman, he’s hopeless. He can barely speak around women, let alone ask one out. Between his dating problems and a season-ending loss, he thinks volunteering at a high school hockey camp is the perfect escape.

That is until he meets Coach Whitney. She's beautiful, she's smart, and she knows hockey. It's the perfect combination to render him speechless (even more so than usual).

Whitney Aven has been surrounded by hockey players her entire life. Which is why she has a strict rule to never date one.

But Conrad isn't like any other man she's met. He's unbelievably handsome, unexpectedly sweet and patient with her players, and one of the most talented skaters she's ever met.
The fact that he barely looks in her direction and blushes anytime she speaks to him is also pretty irresistible.

She never expects him to ask her out.
Or that she’ll say yes.
One awkward date somehow leads to another and another.

And Whitney's no hockey player rule? Well, it's a lot more complicated now because Conrad isn't just a hockey player.
He's her brother's biggest rival.

Genres: Sports Romance, Hockey, Sports, Romance, Hockey Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

370 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication September 26, 2026

About the author

Rebecca Jenshak is a new adult romance author.
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Reviews

[Jill (readinginpjs) · Rating 5 out of 5]

so obsessed with this series, it’s SO GOOD!

Full review to come 💜

[Amity Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

I have loved this series & this one was so good!! Whitney & Conrad were everything!! He is the insecure closed off MMC and she is the perfect match for him! She is sweet & so welcoming & I loved watching him become comfortable & opening up to her!

This is the perfect hockey romance! It was sweet, wholesome, and I loved the friend group & how they just feel like the best family!! This book had me giggling, swooning, and absolutely loving this two!! This had chemistry & so much tension with the brother’s rival trope. I had the best time reading this one. Just a fun, easy, and great read!!

[Gosia]

This was my… 9th book by Rebecca, I think, and first I did on audio and sadly it was a huge miss for me. I have all her other books at least solid 4 stars but this one is barely making it to 2 😭😭😭

It also pains me as it was my first ARC+ALC from Podium Entertainment.
I wish Rebecca well and I will still keep her previous and next books on my tbr but this was just not it.
Leaving without star rating for now and about to post full review on GR, I will be back here with full review after the release date.

The audio performance was great! Full cast, 9,5h long, narrated in duet by Lucy Rivers and Austin Stone.

[Amanda Blanche · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for this e-ARC releasing Sept 29th.

I’ve read other books by this author and always have a good time, so I was happy to get to ARC read this. All her books are sports romance. This book is hockey based - painfully shy and awkward with women NHL player MMC and feisty teacher and high school hockey coach FMC (who swears she doesn’t date hockey players). There are themes of past bullying and family issues that really add depth and meaning to the story. Lots of banter and a great crew of secondary characters that have had a book - or will have one - based on them.

Conrad is a big success in the NHL, good looking and generally a good person - total catch right? Except he can’t talk to women. Like painfully so. So when he meets Whitney at a high school hockey training camp, he’s immediately into her. Too bad he can’t say more than two words to her. With a bunch of missed signals and miscommunication - their first date isn’t the greatest. But trying to see if something is there is worth the awkward silences.

[Tancy | tancysreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
🎙️narrated by Austin Stone & Lucy Rivers with Ryan Lee Dunlap, Christian Fox, Teddy Hamilton, Jason Clarke, Erin Mallon, Savannah Peachwood, & Mollie Stark

Rebecca Jenshak does it again! There is something so special about her sports romances! She pulls you in with enough sports and heart to compliment each other perfectly! This book had so many things that I absolutely love!

A female coach first off! Yes please! & I loved the dynamic of this one. Someone who loves, understands, and plays hockey but wasn’t super amazing & is really there for the kids!! I love a virgin mmc & especially when they’re super shy & Conrad was really just such a green flag all around! The rivals sister plot point was superb, & the ending actually worked for me too!

This was almosttttt a 5 star but I really had a hard time getting behind them basically only banging for the first half of the book with no communication… I think I get it that that was supposed to be their communication because he has trouble talking to women, but I felt like we got to a serious couple pretty quick without lots of relationship development other than the hooking up.

🎧this audio is TOP TIER. Narrated in duet with a full cast it truly is a listening experience! Austin and Lucy did so well together. Austin was the perfect Conrad & the full cast just added so much to the audiobook. Definitely a must listen! 5/5🎙️

Thank you podium audio for the free audiobook!

Read if you love…
* rivals sister
* female hockey coach
* virgin mmc
* pro hockey
* banging to get together

[Erica]

DNF’d at 86 % due to surprise pregnancy 🙄

[G G]

Conrad and Victor‘s little sister?

[Srahhreadsx · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for allowing me to read this book! I could NOT put it down!!

I DEVOURED this book! Conrad is an absolute ridiculously hot hockey player but doesn’t know it he’s so shy it’s adorable and when he first meets Whitney he falls head over heels for her butttt unfortunately he is terrified of speaking to her.. or women in general. It’s actually so cute. I love a downbad man who fumbles over himself. As most men should 👏

So after a disastrous first few encounters and awkward first date Conrad feels like he blew his chance but after a pep talk from his friends (who by the way I’m obsessed with this found family) he goes for it.

Then it gets spicyyyyy and let me tell you this man may of been a “shy virgin” but damn he had a mouth on him in the bedroom!

BUT then he discovers Whitney is his biggest rivals sister.. things start to get complicated. And I LOVE the banter between Conrad and victor (he’s petty asf and I’m here for it, Rebecca i petition for a victor book pls and thank you!)

Also I lovedddd seeing Whitney as a high school hockey coach and math teacher it showed a great representation and her banter and relationships with the students and her and Conrad was so heartwarming and fun!

In conclusion if you’re looking for a hockey romance that will have you kicking your feet! This is the one!
The only thing I’m upset about is that I have to wait for the next book. I need it immediately!!!

Whitney and Conrad 🩷
- Shy nhl player x high school coach
— Rivals sister
- hockey romance
- Virgin mmc
- Forced proximity (hockey camp)
- Found family (they’re nosy af)
- He learns the dirty dancing dance for her!

[Soph · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️4 Stars ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment for the ARC!

This was such a cute book and exactly the kind of fun, easy read I needed.

I always enjoy Rebecca’s books. They’re typical sports romances that aren’t too deep but are always entertaining and easy to get through. Whitney was such a sweet FMC. She’s kind and nice, but also has a sassy side, which I really liked. She really brings Conrad out of his shell.

Conrad is very shy, especially when it comes to women he finds attractive, which I found really cute. I also love how everyone in this series seems to point out just how handsome and attractive he is, while he remains completely humble and shy. He is also so down bad for Whitney from the very beginning.

I felt like the aspect of Conrad’s inexperience was brushed over a little too quickly when it actually mattered. I think this could have been a great opportunity to explore the vulnerability and some of the insecurities that might come with being a virgin in your 20s.

I also enjoyed the rival sisters trope, which added a little extra tension to the story.

I’m excited for the next book, because we can already kind of guess who it’s going to be about.

All in all, this was a quick, easy and entertaining read!

[Allison Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author and Podium Audio for providing an ALC for review!

This was a fun time from start to finish! I loved how sweet and shy Conrad was at the start, and that Whitney had such a kind heart and was willing to give him another chance! I read a lot of romances where both main characters are already so confident and sure of themselves from the start, so it was really refreshing that Conrad was just a normal guy and he felt so realistic!!

I really enjoyed Whitney's character and how confident she was as a coach. I like that the author let her shine in such a male-dominated field, I thought it added a lot to her character!!

No spoilers here, but I loved the ending to their love story and felt that it was really well-written and didn't feel cliche! I know it's not everyone's fav trope but I personally love it and loved what the author did with it!! IYKYK!!!

I also really appreciated the family conflicts that the author included, they added a lot of depth to the story and I especially thought they added a lot to Whitney's character and endeared me to her even more!

I definitely think this is my favorite installment in the Moonshot series so far, can't wait to see what happens next!!

[Danielle Hooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC review✨
wellll sweet baby boy Conrad must be protected at all cost and i’m so glad he found Whitney that preserved through possibly the worst date and gave him our sweet, shy soul a chance so he could find his happily ever after 😭

Whitney also just so happens to be Conrad’s biggest rival’s sister which, yes pls 🙂‍↔️ she’s a high school hockey coach, trying to build her own life and takes a chance on our boy who more than likely stares at her more than speaks the first half of their relationship, but you know, you don’t need taking while being intimate 🤭 but there is realllllly when Conrad shines *internally screaming*

the friend group in this series is so fun, Rebecca always builds the best found families and this one doesn’t disappoint. they care so deeply about each other and love to be involved in everyone’s business butttt in this case it worked out cause they helped Conrad seal the deal with Whitney! it was so beautiful to see him slowly build his confidence throughout the relationship
and for Whitney to see the pure goodness in his heart 🥹 i love them so much, must read!

[Chelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO CUTE. Definitely my favorite of the series so far. I just love Shep 🥹

[Reighlynn Parsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

She knew what she was doing to me. And I ate up every damn crumb she left 😭🙌🏼

[The Romantic Rush Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca does it again, friends! Taking Sides is book three in the Moonshot Hockey series, and somehow this series just keeps getting better. This one gave me shy hockey boy chaos, a heroine with a heart the size of Texas, found family goodness, forbidden tension, some VERY cute firsts, and an ending that had me grinning like an idiot. Plus one delicious surprise trope.

Conrad Shepard has been intriguing me since we first met him, and OH MY GOD was this man exactly the kind of shy, sweet cinnamon roll I was hoping he would be. He's a professional hockey player who can hold his own on the ice, but put him in front of a beautiful woman he actually likes and suddenly his vocabulary consists of approximately three words. The man is basically a spooling screen. And it was so endearing.

The opening bad-date-meet-cute was such a fun way to introduce these two. It was awkward, hilarious, and completely adorable, but underneath all the fumbling you could already see the beginnings of something special. Whitney tries to coax him out of his shell, Conrad is desperately trying to make a good impression while simultaneously malfunctioning, and neither one quite understands what the other is thinking. But what really got me was how KIND Whitney was with him. She didn't make him feel ridiculous or rush him. She gave him room. She gave him understanding. And Conrad desperately needed someone who would do exactly that.

Whitney is the sister of Conrad's biggest rival, which gives us that delicious little layer of forbidden territory, but I REALLY appreciated that the book didn't make the brother conflict the entire romance. There is plenty of tension there, especially because Victor is a hotheaded protective brother who very much has opinions about Conrad, but the relationship between Whitney and Conrad is allowed to become its own thing. And these two are just SO GOOD together.

Whitney has this natural empathy that shapes almost everything she does. She's thoughtful with her family, her students, her team, and especially Conrad. She's the kind of person who notices what someone needs before they know how to ask for it. With Conrad, that becomes incredibly important because she doesn't just accept his quietness, she takes the time to understand it. She asks questions carefully. She makes space for him. She brings him into conversations instead of forcing him into them. She makes him feel safe. And I think that's what I loved most about their relationship. Whitney doesn't magically "fix" Conrad. She gives him the environment where he can finally start figuring himself out.

Conrad's character growth is SO GOOD. Watching him slowly move out of his own head and realize that the version of himself he has been carrying around isn't necessarily who he has to remain was incredibly rewarding. He has spent so much time defining himself by the awkward kid he used to be, and I loved watching him challenge that narrative. He starts taking chances. He speaks up. He lets himself be vulnerable. He begins to recognize his own worth. And the fact that his friends are there cheering him on through all of it?! MY HEART.

The found family in this series is one of my favorite things, and I think this book might be my favorite use of the ensemble so far in this series. The guys don't just provide comic relief or pop in for cameos. They actively help Conrad become more comfortable with himself. They support him, challenge him, show up for him. From supporting him through his disastrous attempts at dating to showing up when he needs them most, their friendship is such an important part of his story. Watching these men show up for Conrad without making him feel like he needed to become someone else was everything. And seeing how their support helped him become more comfortable around Whitney was so cute.

I also loved the contrast between how quietly intimate most of Conrad and Whitney's relationship feels and the bigger gestures sprinkled throughout. Theirs is a series of quietly thoughtful symbolic gestures that aren't always large in size but hugely monumental in their relationship. These aren't grand gestures just for the sake of being grand. They matter because both of these people have spent so much of their lives being careful in different ways, and here they are finally choosing to be BIG about someone.

And I loved the twist with Conrads v-card. It actually made sense with everything we already knew about him. His anxiety around women wasn't just a cute personality quirk, and this added another layer to understanding just how deeply his insecurity had affected his life. But more than that, I loved the way that moment was handled between him and Whitney. His honesty, her reaction, the vulnerability of it all...it was incredibly sweet. And once Conrad gets a little confidence? Well. Sir. Let's just say the shy hockey player is a quick study.

Their chemistry develops in such a lovely way because their emotional intimacy comes first. They genuinely become friends. They play together, tease each other, learn each other's rhythms, and slowly become a safe place for one another. I especially loved how reciprocal their care becomes. Conrad is constantly encouraging Whitney in her career and respecting the complicated dynamics within her family, even when those things aren't easy for him. Whitney sees the little pieces of the more confident Conrad underneath all the nerves and keeps reminding him that he's capable of so much more than he believes. They really SEE each other. Then the physical chemistry starts catching up, and when it does...HAWT!

And here's to women in sports! I loved seeing a woman thriving in a traditionally male-dominated space, and I especially appreciated that she didn't have to be the world's greatest hockey player to be a great coach. Her strengths are in understanding people, teaching, encouraging, and bringing out the best in her players. And honestly, her patience with Conrad tracks perfectly with that. She is confident in some areas and much less certain in others, and I liked that distinction. Her empathy is both her superpower and occasionally the thing that gets her into trouble. There were definitely moments toward the end where I wanted to shake her a little because GIRL. But even those choices made more sense once we understood the complicated family dynamics underneath them.

And that ending?! I AM SWOONING. The love confessions. Conrad finally standing up for himself. A little Victor fun. And then...another twist. Conrad's reaction was especially perfect because we get to see just how far he's come. Old Conrad would have spiraled.

Also the foreshadowing?! I think the next book is going to be my fav....

The audiobook was such a fun listen too. Lucy Rivers and Austin Stone were fantastic in the duet narration, and I loved having the larger cast return as well. Hearing familiar voices pop back up gave the series that world-focused, immersive approach that I LOVE. The duet format worked especially well for Whitney and Conrad because their personalities are so different, and the narration captured both the humor, the contrasts that make their chemistry sizzle, and the softer emotional moments really well.

Overall, Taking Sides is such a charming addition to this series. It's sweet without being trite, emotional without drowning in angst, funny, sexy, and completely packed with the found family moments that make Moonshot Hockey so much fun. I LOVE this series, I love these characters, and I am already ridiculously invested in whatever comes next.

What to expect in Taking Sides:
🏒 Hockey
🏒 Pro Hockey Player x High School Hockey Coach
🏒 Extremely Shy MMC
🏒 Virgin MMC
🏒 First Love / First Relationship
🏒 Rival's Sister
🏒 Found Family
🏒 Sweet + Spicy Romance
🏒 Emotional Growth
🏒 Protective/Grumpy Brother
🏒 Surprise Trope
🏒 Duet Narration + Full Cast
🏒 Low Angst
🏒 Grand Romantic Gestures
🏒 No Third-Act Breakup

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taking Sides is a charming, fun, found family hockey romance with a wonderful cast of characters and first time love at its best.❤️

Whitney Aven is the sister to Conrad's biggest rival, which made this book just a bit forbidden, but honestly I liked that it wasn't the entire plot of the book. Whitney is the JV coach to a high school hockey team, and Conrad Shepard was asked to help out at the training camp during his off time between seasons. Normally it's something Conrad loved to do since hockey was his happy place, but too bad he got tongue tied around Whitney every time he was near her and couldn't say a word because he thought she was the most gorgeous woman he'd ever seen and instead he usually skated away every time she was close.

Unfortunately, Whitney thinks his silence is him being stuck up, which was unfortunate for both of them because she thinks Conrad is the hottest guy she's ever laid eyes on too. So, their first meet-cute didn't go exactly as planned for either of them, but she's a total sweetheart and nothing like her hothead brother, thank goodness since she gives Conrad another chance. It's adorable with Conrad's rosy cheeks and all, but those and his one word sentences eventually do get better, and thank goodness Whitney has such a giant heart that saw beyond his fumbling first attempts. 🥰

Conrad Shepard may be the shyest hockey player alive, but he's also so sweet it's hard not to fall in love with him. "Charming" is the nickname Whitney dubs him with and I'll just say this; it's not for his flirting skills. 😉 Whitney was already pretty great, no notes.😂 Seriously though, her biggest hangup was probably her brother, but once that entire history was cracked wide open, it all began to make sense why she was so incredibly sweet and yet she still stood up for her hothead brother's side. She’s smart, well adjusted, and a peacekeeper at heart, while also being fun, which made her fit in really well with the Moonshot crowd. Truly, what's not to like. She was the perfect partner for Conrad and I liked the two of them as a couple.

These two are incredibly sweet and adorable, plus so freakin hot 🥵 every time they got together. I mean, for a hockey player who lacked experience, Shep is a quick learner 😏 and he becomes the best version of who he ever imagined himself to be when he's with her. I really loved his boyfriend transformation from single to taken with pretty low angst.❤️ Overall, this story, even with their rocky start, was one of my favorites. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Podium Entertainment for the advance reader copy and all opinions are my own.

[Sadie Glover · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐️

I loved how Taking Sides felt like the complete opposite of what I normally find in hockey romances. Usually, it’s the NHL star who has women throwing themselves at him while the heroine is the shy or inexperienced one, but this time we get NHL star defender Conrad Shepherd, who gets SO much female attention but can barely speak to a woman without panicking. And honestly? I loved that switch-up. There was something so refreshing about seeing the guy be the shy, awkward virgin for once, especially when he’s this confident, intimidating hockey player on the ice.

I absolutely loved Conrad. Watching his insecurity and nervousness slowly change as he became more comfortable around Whitney was EVERYTHING. You get to see him go from having this initial crush on her, to slowly building that friendship and connection, and eventually falling completely in love with her. Seeing him gain confidence around her without losing that sweet, awkward side of himself had my whole heart. 🥹

And Whitney was such a great match for him. I loved that she could hold her own, both in the male-dominated world of hockey coaching and when it came to standing up for herself and her family. She wasn’t afraid to put Conrad in his place when he overstepped with her brother, and I really appreciated that. At the same time, I have to low-key give Conrad some credit for stepping up and protecting his girl, even if… maybe the way he went about it wasn’t exactly the smartest choice 😂.

One of my favourite things about the Moonshot books is always the friendships, and Taking Sides was no different. This team genuinely feels like a family, and they would do anything for each other. I loved how they all rallied around Conrad and tried to help him navigate his complete lack of game with women 😂. And then, of course, Whitney was basically immediately welcomed into their social circle. Those little moments with the team added so much to the story and are honestly one of the reasons I love this series so much.

Overall, this was such a sweet, refreshing hockey romance with a hero who completely stole my heart. I loved watching Conrad come out of his shell, I loved his relationship with Whitney, and I will forever be a sucker for a hockey team who act like one big dysfunctional family. Another Moonshot win for me. 🏒❤️

[Jennifer English · Rating 5 out of 5]

I jumped so fast to apply when I saw an ARC for this on NetGalley and was super surprised when I was approved! Thanks so much NG & Podium Entertainment! I read this book as fast as my adulting self could, which admittedly wasn't quite as fast as I wanted to. I have never watched a hockey game in my life but it is my absolute favorite sports romance genre!

Whitney is the sister to a professional hockey player, in fact, she used to be his assistant, until she decided she wanted to more from her life. Then their estranged Mom dies and leaves them her house in a whole other state. So Whitney uses that as an excuse to find a job she enjoys, living in the house her Mom left her, while her Dad and her brother more or less belittle her for her decision.

Conrad Shepard is a profession hockey player who is also a professional one date only guy. But not because he's a player. No, its because he genuinely has the worst time attempting to speak to any woman, especially one that he's attracted to. This is also true with Whitney. Their 1st date is an epic failure. But they keep getting thrown together, and he pushes out the most awkward request for a 2nd date, blurting out how much he likes her. Conrad is also stupidly hot, in fact Whit refers to him several times as Prince Charming, or even just Charming, and so she agrees.

When we find out that not only is Whitney Conrads first girlfriend, she's also his first, well, everything, its actually pretty sweet. This is polar opposite of so many other hockey romance MMC's that it was a bit refreshing. I loved that she didnt make him feel like less and was so willing to just let their physical relationship develop naturally, even as she taught him a thing or two. 😏🥵😏🥵

The relationship that they build is actually really strong, with them both knowing whats going on from nearly the start, well at least from the 2nd date, that even tho there's some tension between Conrad & Whit's brother Victor, their relationship was strong enough to not go through a 3rd act break up, even if he felt like he needed to do a Grand Gesture for his verbal fight with Victor.

I loved how the other players were still present in the story, that we still got to see glimpses of them throughout the book. I know Sloanes story is next but I'm really hoping that Victor gets a redemption story, some where down the line.

[Kass · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taking Sides is book three in the Moonshot Hockey series and is the story of Conrad and Whitney. This is a brother’s rival, strangers to lovers, virgin MMC romance.

Conrad may be a star hockey player but when it comes to women, he clams up and can’t talk to them. He has been shy his entire life and was bullied as a kid due to it and it carried over into his adult life. His friends constantly try to set him up but his fear of talking to women has every date failing. When Conrad and a teammate help out a youth hockey camp, he meets the high school JV coach, Whitney and he is taken by her but as usual he is too shy to speak to her and Whitney thinks he is stuck up.

Whitney has been the less talented one in her family, with a brother who is a pro hockey player and a father who demands perfection. Having left her job as her brother’s assistant behind her, Whitney found her place as a youth hockey coach and she loves it. A summer camp for her hockey players has her meeting two pro hockey stars, one of which refuses to speak to her, make Whitney remember why she refuses to date hockey players.

Conrad finally gets the nerve to ask Whitney on a date but it is a disaster when he is too nervous to speak and she leaves without a backwards glance. Several months later they come face to face again and she tries to avoid him but as she is walking away, he catches her attention and then kisses her to prove he is interested. Sparks fly and Conrad slowly opens up to Whitney and explains why he is the way he is and they start to spend time together. Unfortunately, Conrad learns that Whitney’s brother is his biggest rival and neither want to address the issues that may cause. Will Whitney and Conrad be able to get past their obstacles and pasts or will it be too much and will it have Whitney taking sides?

This was a heart warming story with a ton of spice, some angst and longing and a fantastic group of friends that love Conrad and Whitney. There could have been a little more in depth discussion of how Whitney was able to help Conrad overcome his epic shyness but overall the plot was great and the story keeps you engaged. I enjoyed that Conrad and Victor did not become instant friends for Whitney but tolerated each other because they both loved her. I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving an honest review as a show of my appreciation.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars

I think by now even the birds outside my window know that I absolutely LOVE hockey romances. At this point, I'm not even pretending otherwise.

And Taking Sides? Oh, this one was GOOD.

First of all, Conrad and Whitney's chemistry was everything. They fit together so naturally. Even if actually getting them to interact normally in the beginning was a bit of a struggle. 😂 Conrad being this incredibly talented professional hockey player who basically forgets how to function around a woman he likes was one of the cutest things ever.

I especially loved watching Conrad's journey throughout the book. Seeing his insecurity and nervousness slowly transform as he became more comfortable around Whitney was so rewarding. He didn't suddenly become a completely different person; he simply found someone around whom he felt safe enough to be himself. And watching that initial crush slowly become something deeper? My heart.

Whitney was just as wonderful. I LOVE a badass FMC, and making her a hockey coach immediately earned her bonus points. She was confident, capable, passionate about her players (and maths), and genuinely good at what she did. I loved seeing a woman not simply adjacent to the sport because of the MMC, but someone who had her own place within the hockey world.

And together? Conrad and Whitney were just ridiculously sweet. Their awkward dates, their growing comfort with each other, the chemistry, the tenderness. I ate it all up.

I also really enjoyed the side characters. Even Victor. Actually, especially Victor. That man deserves approximately one million hugs, and Rebecca Jenshak, if you're listening, I would very much like his book someday. Thank you.

There's also something about Rebecca Jenshak's writing that makes her books incredibly easy to devour. Everything feels effortless and natural, and somehow she managed to make me smile, swoon, laugh, AND cry throughout this one.

Basically, Taking Sides gave me everything I want from a hockey romance: lovable characters, fantastic chemistry, plenty of heart, and another hockey player to add to my ever-growing collection of fictional men.

I really, really loved this one. 🏒🤍

[Tash W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Podium Entertainment for this ARC of Taking sides.
What a cute story!!! Conrad you beautiful man! So unaware of how magnetic and attractive he is, likely caused by the bullies he was tormented by in high school. He truly found his home and his people when he moved to Moonshot. At first I worried that Whitney wouldn’t give him the time of day given that he couldn’t put more then two words together around her or do anything but grunt at and avoid her (poor awkward Conrad!)

Whitney finding herself was another highlight. To step out from the demands and expectations of her brother and father, who made points of diminishing the importance and value of her job and the need to move away to pursue it. Also moving into her estranged mother’s house after she recently passed and left it to her and her brother, Victor, was another point of contention for her that bought value to her character growth.

The fact that they managed to overcome his inability to talk to her initially and bought him out of his shell was beautiful, natural and completely believable. The fact that she never made a big deal over him being a virgin and ensured that his first time was pleasant was lovely. I do wish in this aspect that this was explored and fleshed out a little more because it was such a pivotal moment for him personally and the fact that he was willing to be vulnerable and tell her despite the fact that it could affect how she feels about it, the way that scene was developed felt a bit ‘Meh’.

The conflict that was bound to come to a head was brilliant. The building up of the tension between Conrad and Victor (Whitney’s brother) was excellent. Though I do wish we had some understanding as to why Victor hates Conrad so much. The mic drop moment when Conrad finds out she’s the sister of his biggest rival was hilarious but I was left feeling like it again was a little rushed but then again the timeline wasn’t exactly clear and it seemed there was a bit of communication alluded to between them that we as readers didn’t get.

Overall, I loved this book and the couple of things that I felt weren’t overly well done didn’t take away from the vibes of the book and I truly loved the entire thing. I cannot wait for the next book in the series because I want Danny’s story!!!
5 stars.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Moonshot, Montana, NHL star defender Conrad Shepherd seems like someone who would have it all: a successful career and devastatingly handsome. But Conrad can barely speak to a woman without panicking. His insecurities and nerves get the best of him each time. Case in point: asking out the sexy JV coach from the local high school team. He is instantly attracted to her but can't get himself to show it. Their first date is just like all his others: short and disappointing for her. Whitney doesn't know if he asked her out as a bet but he can't possibly like her. When he gets a chance to talk with her again, he finally breaks through to show her how much he likes her. As they build from crush to friendship (with benefits) to dating, Conrad isn't that awkward guy anymore with Whitney: they show up for each other (and their chemistry can't be denied). But Whitney is the sister of Conrad's biggest rival. What will happen when her brother finally finds out?

This was such a fun one! I loved the switch up of Conrad's shy and awkward nature to being all in for Whitney. And when the third act hits, there is a twist that normally wouldn't work for me. But it totally worked for me here. Conrad is supportive and loving in all the best ways!

I also loved seeing the rest of the Moonshot team, especially in how they support Conrad. There is a moment later in the book where they physically show up, and it was so great to see. They were a great contrast with Whitney's family (though I would be interested in a Victor redemption story!). This was such a fun addition to the series. I can't wait to read more!

This romance features:
💕 Hockey romance
💕 Math teacher and JV hockey coach FMC
💕 Rival's sister
💕 New adult (23 year olds)
💕 Complicated families (hers)
💕 He falls first and harder

Open door / spicy!

4.5 / 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC!

[Elia Winters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca Jenshak NEVER disappoints. I love all of her books and I love the Moonshot series.

Conrad Shepard is one of my favorite MMC, he is so shy around women and truly does not know how to act around them. It is pretty hilarious in the beginning to see him try and fail so spectacularly especially as a hot hockey player. But I love the chemistry between him and Whitney and how she gives him a chance even though his way to ask her out was a little painful to get through 🤣

While their first date was a disaster, I appreciated Conrad's teammates cheering him on to try again and how honest he was with Whitney, she of COURSE gives him another chance and I love how he becomes more comfortable with her and can be himself with her and they have a genuine friendship (with benefits) and they do admit feelings once they want to be GF and BF.

Whitney, I love that she is a hockey coach, her love and commitment for the kids on her team was so beautiful. I also appreciated that she was the sister of Conrad's rival, Victor, it makes the dynamics so interesting and I appreciate how they could be honest with their thoughts on Victor and be respective of each other's feelings. Whitney was such a boss babe, forging her own path without any support from her family and I love how she found her home in Moonshot!

I loved all of the side characters of course, I appreciated seeing Nick, Ruby, Travis, and Hannah again but I also loved seeing D-low, Penn, and yes, even Victor. I need to know more about D-low and Sloane and I would love to see happiness for Victor, yes he wasn't a great guy but seeing his and Whitney's father, I get it.

So yes, in essence I loved this. It was a fantastic book from beginning to end and I love Moonshot Hockey!! Can't wait to see more from this team!

*Thanks to NetGalley, Podium Entertainment, and Rebecca Jenshak for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It’s just me.”
“Don’t you get it? You aren’t just anything. You’re everything to me.”

Two things about me: (1) I will always love a good hockey romance with a top tier found family, and (2) I will eat up a Rebecca Jenshak book.

Did I finish this book in one sitting? Basically. Did I grin like an idiot on the subway while reading during my commute to the doctor? Yes, and the man sitting across from me gave me a weird look when I glanced up. Did I giggle and kick my feet (not on the subway btw)? Yes because I was obsessed with Conrad Shepard by page 2.

Guys I’m not even kidding, this book was addicting. I mean, rivals sister? Check. Shy NHL player x High school coach? Check. Virgin MMC? Check (wink). I actually couldn’t get enough of Conrad and Whitney, as well as the found family aspects. I absolutely adored the dynamic between the coaches, NHL players, and the kids–it had my heart melting. Also, the characters, characters’ growth, and character interactions all felt real and lively. I cannot wait to eventually get my hands on the audiobook because it will be a full cast (literally squealing).

Speaking of Conrad Shepard…Give him to me now!! He’s a good man, Savannah!! Ugh, I would literally sell my right kidney for that man to magically appear by my side. He’s literally the definition of “if he wanted to, he would” and a true yearner (bring back yearners!!).

Last side note for now: I feel the need to mention Victor, Whitney’s brother and Conrad’s rival, without revealing any spoilers, of course. Do I understand Victor’s character? Yes–I enjoy the fact that he is written as deeply flawed with redemption potential. But was I also chanting “hit him with a car” every time he appeared on page? Double yes. Whoops.



A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC!
*Note: this is an HONEST SPOILER FREE REVIEW*

[tarin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Taking Sides by Rebecca Jenshak is a very cute sports romance. I'm a sucker for a new hockey romance and this one was cute all around. It’s clear the author knows hockey... I mean, the terminology, the atmosphere, and the little details sprinkled throughout the story made the world feel authentic. I appreciated the knowledge of the sport! I also enjoyed the slow burn (my fav!) and the bit of yearning woven into Connor and Whitney's relationship. Truly, the sweetness of the main characters and their relationship is what kept me invested in this book.

There are a couple points where the story didn't land for me and that was in Connor's character. His backstory was relatable and will be relatable to so many people who grew up being bullied in school. What got me was that in the book Connor is described as extremely attractive (Whitney's nickname for him is literally Charming), so the idea that he can't speak to girls at all threw me. And on top of that, the virgin angle. While this angle is unique, it's just not something that I found to be realistic.

Overall, it's a cute, easy read if you're looking for a sports romance - specifically hockey.

What Worked for Me
- Hockey details: This made the world feel realistic. I can tell the author knows this sport.
- Slow burn: Though this book was less than 300 pages, I didn't feel that the romance was rushed and had a good amount of yearning.
- Character personalities: Connor and Whitney both had really sweet traits, which I enjoyed. There was also a lot of character development for Connor.

What Didn’t Work for Me
- MMC: Hard to buy into for me. He's shy & unable to talk to girls, but extremely attractive
- Charming nickname: I don't know why, but this completely gave me the ick.
- MMC is a virgin: Again, hard to buy into and very unrealistic.

2/5 stars for me. A fun, light sports romance that most will like. It just didn't hit for me!

Thank you to the author for the ARC!

[Only.ever.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review:
🏒Taking Sides🏒
Moonshot Hockey #3

By Rebecca Jenshak

🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Rivals Sister
🏒 Sports Romance

⭐ 5/5

Whitney, she sees what others didn’t care to look at
Conrad, with her he doesn’t need to hide

Conrad and Whitney with some extraordinary romance

This series only keeps getting better and better. Conrad and Whitney are some exceptional characters with a fantastic journey.
Conrad and Whitney didn’t meet before but nonetheless have something in common they couldn’t have imagined. Her brother. His rival.
Deep rooted dislike binds Conrad and Victor. Being siblings bind Whitney and Victor.
And chemistry and attraction swirls between Conrad and Whitney.
But getting to know each other is a very difficult goal to score, because Conrad is the epitome of shyness. And while it takes her some time to register that, Whitney is the first to see that.
Secret dates and hookups, text messages and visits are the beginning of something with the potential to become more.
But the cloud above their heads? Victor. The only person who has the power to get in their way of happiness.
It happens a lot between them and developing feelings is one of them, before their secrets come out.
Conrad is a very sweet character, unbelievably shy but also caring, supporting and honest. He has his circle of friends and they are there for him and do whatever it takes to support their friend.
Whitney teaches hockey at a high school, she is dedicated and does it with her whole heart. Since living in Moonshot she has only one good friend and her relationship with her family isn’t tight or warm.
So she and Conrad complement each other in many more ways. She fits perfectly in his life, in every aspect.
A wonderful romance that lives from the character development and the slowly forming relationship and assessing feelings. With the most beautiful happy end in this series.

[Tassia da Silva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute read, and now I really want to go back and read the other books in this series.

The found family was probably my favorite part. I loved this whole group and how involved they were in each other’s lives. This was my first introduction to them, and by the end I already wanted more.

I also really loved Whitney. Give me a woman actually working in a male-dominated sport and I’m already interested, but I especially liked getting to see her as a coach. She knows her stuff, but she’s also really intentional about making hockey fun and finding ways to motivate her players. I loved seeing that side of her.

And then there’s Conrad.

Do I completely believe that a professional hockey player who looks like THAT has managed to be quite this socially awkward and inexperienced with women? Ehhh… I don’t know. 😂 But I also didn’t care that much because it was such a nice change from the hockey MMC who is hot, knows he’s hot, has women throwing themselves at him, and has spent years taking full advantage of that fact.
Instead Conrad is basically a train wreck around Whitney. He’s shy, inexperienced, and a virgin, and somehow it was so hot. 🥵
But it was more than just great sex. He genuinely likes her. He respects her. And they develop a great friendship and watching that develop made me much more invested in them. There is spice, but the sweet parts of their relationship were actually what worked best for me.

Speaking of which, I was glad the whole “my brother can never know situation” wasn’t the only thing carrying the story. It’s part of it, obviously, but there’s enough happening with Whitney and Conrad individually and with the people around them that their relationship felt like more than just a forbidden-romance setup.

Four stars. I’d read this again, and I definitely want to spend more time with this found family—which is saying something because I’m not even particularly a hockey person.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Conrad is a professional hockey player who cannot talk to women. He gets so nervous that he clams up and therefore doesn’t have much of a dating life. Whitney is the head coach of a local high school JV team, and Conrad is taken by her right away. Despite a rocky start Conrad manages to convince Whitney to give him a chance and they start dating. Much to Conrad’s dismay though, Whitney is the sister of his arch nemesis in the league.

Conrad’s inability to have a conversation was so painful to read, I felt terrible for the guy, and the second hand embarrassment was real. I was so happy when Whitney realized he was shy, and that he actually did like her. I thought it was wonderful when she realized he would open up more if he was around his friends and could converse easier that way.

I loved that Whitney was a hockey coach herself, and that her players and students respected and liked her. She wasn’t fighting much misogyny in the book so that was nice. I really didn’t like her brother and had no idea how the author would redeem him by the end of the book. I was happy where things ended up with him and Conrad though, and thought it was a natural place for them to be in.

Watching Conrad come out of his shell and gain confidence the longer he and Whitney were together was great to see, and he really was the sweetest guy. His desire to help Whitney with her coaching was wonderful, and I loved how invested he was in her success. I definitely enjoyed the book and can’t wait to see who the characters in the next one will be. I’m hoping for Danny and Sloane! I want to thank Podium Entertainment and NetGalley for the copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.

No third act breakup/third act fight

4/5 on the Spicy Scale

[Jess (GetbookedwithJessica) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I LOVE this series and these characters! Taking Sides is book three in the Moonshot Hockey series, and honestly, this series just keeps getting better and better. Every book has delivered, and I have loved getting to know these characters and watching their stories unfold.

The tension between Conrad and Victor, Whitney’s brother, was SO good. Give me a strong-headed, grumpy brother who absolutely does NOT approve of his sister’s new boyfriend because of the beef between them, and I’m here for it! The brother’s-rival trope is always such a fun one, and this book did it so well. I especially loved seeing Conrad stick up for Whitney during those heated moments and watching their relationship evolve along the way.

And Conrad Shepard?! This man is a HOT hockey player who has absolutely ZERO game when it comes to women. He is so shy and genuinely has no idea how to act around them, and watching him try, and fail so spectacularly in the beginning was honestly hilarious. There’s just something so endearing about a shy MMC who is completely confident on the ice but suddenly forgets how to function around a woman he likes.

I also LOVED the narration! The full cast was fantastic, and hearing the narrators from the previous books reprise their roles was the BEST. The Travis and Hannah dialogue especially kept taking me back to their story, and I loved those little connections woven throughout the book. The duet narration and dual POV worked so well and made the story even more enjoyable.

Tropes:
🏒 Hockey romance
👶 Surprise baby
🏒 Rival’s sister
🙈 Shy MMC
🔥 Virgin MMC
🏫 High school hockey coach
👨‍👩‍👧 Found family
🎧 Duet narration
🎭 Dual POV
🚫 No third-act breakup

Another fantastic addition to the Moonshot Hockey series! If you love hockey romance, grumpy brothers, shy MMCs, found family, and a little brother’s-rival drama, you definitely need this series on your radar. I cannot wait for more!

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t know I was attracted to the shy type when it came to guys but OMG! Conrad Shepard was ADORABLE.

“Talking is overrated anyway.”

And don’t let his shy personality fool you, this man was a quick study when it came to SPICE and treating Whitney like a queen in and out of the bedroom! 🤭🫠❤️‍🔥

“On your back, Charming.”
“Whatever you say, Coach.”

I loved Whitney. She was able to give Conrad another chance after a disastrous date and see past the his flaws to the sweet man he actually was. He was also able to help her see how she deserves to be treated better by her family. (And she’s a hockey coach with a heart of gold, so she’s a literal icon!)

This was a TRUE ‘rival’s sister’ story. Whitney’s brother, Victor seriously HATES Conrad and the feeling definitely mutual. I started off hating her brother but I have a lingering feeling of wanting his story! (I hope he gets a book, he would have one great road to redemption!)

I did not see the ending of this book coming, but I loved it and how it helped Conrad and Victor come together for Whitney!

The Moonshot Hockey series just gets better and better! I can’t wait for more! 🤭 This story on audio made for a great listen! It’s FULLY CASTED, which always just blows my mind. Our leads are preformed in duet by Austin Sione & Lucy Rivers, and I truly loved their voices!

The rest of the cast is Ryan Lee Dunlap, Christian Fox, Teddy Hamilton, Jason Clarke, Erin Mallon, Savannah Peachwood & Mollie Stark. 🤯❤️‍🔥

Tropes:
🏒 Pro Hockey Romance
⛸️ She’s a HS Hockey Coach/Math Teacher
🤭 Rival’s Sister
🫶🏼 Shy Guy
💋 Virgin MMC
❤️‍🔥 Forced Proximity
💖 Found Family

[Jordan Kahn | A Blue Nest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conrad Shepherd somehow managed to both be "baby girl" and "daddy" all wrapped in one, and I feel like Rebecca really needs to be celebrated for that!

Taking Sides was such a fun, cute and addictive book. The Moonshot Hockey series has consistently delivered some of my favorite characters and this was no exception.

Conrad is the team hottie who has absolutely no clue just how attractive he is. He has terrible social anxiety around dating and women and clams up anytime he's set up on a date. Which happens a quite a bit thanks to his well meaning teammates and their girls.

Whitney is a local high school hockey coach and teacher who also happens to be the sister of Conrad's biggest rival on the ice. She's trying to pave her own way after leaving the somewhat toxic sphere of her dad.

Shep and Whit meet when the Moonshot team helps out at a local hockey camp. They are both instantly attracted to each other, but things go anything but smoothly due to Conrad's shyness and anxiety. Their story is a bit unconventional but is so precious! I love the way Whitney meets Conrad where he is and helps him realize that he can leave the bullied kid behind and fully embrace the man he has grown into. Their relationship is sweet, hilarious and also the perfect kind of spicy!

And lets just say I am VERY excited about the couple that gets teed up at the end!

What you can expect:
- Pro hockey
- She's a high school coach
- Rival's sister
- Shy MMC
- Virgin MMC
- Banter
- Great found family

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinions and review!