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Colton U Playbook #3
The Risk Taker
Not yet published
Expected 10 Apr 26Nathan-
I’ve built my entire life around control. I do what’s expected of me, keep my head down, and avoid anything that might drag me off course.
Which is why, when Coach gives me the task of keeping Logan Gray in check, it feels like a cruel joke.
He’s too loud, parties too hard, takes nothing seriously, and has made an art out of getting under my skin. He doesn’t try to hide how much fun he has pushing my buttons by walking around shirtless, tossing out flirty comments, and refusing to give me any space.
I tell myself I can handle him, that it doesn’t matter how many times I catch myself watching him when I shouldn’t. I’ve spent too long being careful to let someone like Logan Gray knock me off balance, but it becomes hard to remember that when he doesn’t play by the rules.
I’ve avoided risk my entire life. But lately, I’m not sure I want to.
Logan-
I’ve always been good at getting under people’s skin. It’s kind of a talent—one that Nathan Hayes is immune to.
He’s disciplined to a fault, annoyingly focused, and has spent the last two years barely acknowledging my existence. But when Coach decides his son is the perfect guy to keep me in line, that all changes.
Suddenly, he’s watching me. Paying attention. Frowning every time I push his buttons.
And I push. Obviously.
Because he’s straight, untouchable and completely unaffected.
Or so I thought.
Turns out, Nathan isn’t quite as immune as he pretends to be. One touch and one unexpected confession is all it takes until we’re sneaking around.
I’ve never been one to turn down a little fun, and if my tightly-wound, rule-following roommate wants someone to help him figure things out? I’m more than willing to be of service.
What can I say? I’m a very supportive teammate.
I’ve built my entire life around control. I do what’s expected of me, keep my head down, and avoid anything that might drag me off course.
Which is why, when Coach gives me the task of keeping Logan Gray in check, it feels like a cruel joke.
He’s too loud, parties too hard, takes nothing seriously, and has made an art out of getting under my skin. He doesn’t try to hide how much fun he has pushing my buttons by walking around shirtless, tossing out flirty comments, and refusing to give me any space.
I tell myself I can handle him, that it doesn’t matter how many times I catch myself watching him when I shouldn’t. I’ve spent too long being careful to let someone like Logan Gray knock me off balance, but it becomes hard to remember that when he doesn’t play by the rules.
I’ve avoided risk my entire life. But lately, I’m not sure I want to.
Logan-
I’ve always been good at getting under people’s skin. It’s kind of a talent—one that Nathan Hayes is immune to.
He’s disciplined to a fault, annoyingly focused, and has spent the last two years barely acknowledging my existence. But when Coach decides his son is the perfect guy to keep me in line, that all changes.
Suddenly, he’s watching me. Paying attention. Frowning every time I push his buttons.
And I push. Obviously.
Because he’s straight, untouchable and completely unaffected.
Or so I thought.
Turns out, Nathan isn’t quite as immune as he pretends to be. One touch and one unexpected confession is all it takes until we’re sneaking around.
I’ve never been one to turn down a little fun, and if my tightly-wound, rule-following roommate wants someone to help him figure things out? I’m more than willing to be of service.
What can I say? I’m a very supportive teammate.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 10, 2026
37 people are currently reading
1183 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Alves
11 books1,243 followersStephanie Alves is an avid reader and writer of smutty, contemporary romance books. She was born in England, but was raised by her loud Portuguese parents. She can speak both languages fluently, though she tends to mix both languages when speaking. She loves to write romantic comedies with happy endings, witty banter and sizzling chemistry that will make you blush. When she’s not writing, she can be found either reading, or watching rom coms with her two adorable dogs cuddled up beside her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Want to read
January 28, 2026Im in my gay hockey player era 💞
Can i read this as a standalone without reading the others?
OMG ITS SO SHANE ILYA CODED IM CRINE
Can i read this as a standalone without reading the others?
OMG ITS SO SHANE ILYA CODED IM CRINE
March 31, 2026
‘𝘏𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘮𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬.‘
this was such cute read, i had such a great time reading this book.
it was fun, flirty, lots of banter and teasing, but it also felt very real and i loved following nathan&logan’s journey, both separately and together.
i really wanted to give logan the biggest hug.
nathan & logan balanced each other perfectly. i loved how vulnerable they were with each other, and their chemistry was there from the start.
there are some fantastic dirty talk with some “good boy” sprinkled in, plus a few whimpers (𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘦) and i am so here for it!
this was such cute read, i had such a great time reading this book.
it was fun, flirty, lots of banter and teasing, but it also felt very real and i loved following nathan&logan’s journey, both separately and together.
i really wanted to give logan the biggest hug.
nathan & logan balanced each other perfectly. i loved how vulnerable they were with each other, and their chemistry was there from the start.
there are some fantastic dirty talk with some “good boy” sprinkled in, plus a few whimpers (𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘦) and i am so here for it!
Want to read
March 31, 2026cute 🥰
March 25, 2026
⭐️4.25⭐️
Thank you to Stephanie Alves for providing me with an ARC of this book!
This was such a cute and fun read—easy to get into, mostly lighthearted, and full of great banter and teasing.
Nathan is the classic grumpy goalie who feels lost in different aspects of his life, while Logan is the funny, teasing golden retriever type. I loved how Logan brings out Nathan’s playful side, and in return, Nathan allows Logan to show a softer, more vulnerable side of himself. Their dynamic just works so well.
The chemistry is there from the very first page—you can really feel the tension building right away. It was especially nice to see how comfortable they became with each other, allowing themselves to be truly free.
The ending was very satisfying and sweet, which made the whole journey even more enjoyable.
I also loved the little crumbs we got of Aurora and Cole—I’m already so excited for their book!
Perfect for fans of:
• MM romance
• Teammates-to-lovers
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Sneaking around
Thank you to Stephanie Alves for providing me with an ARC of this book!
This was such a cute and fun read—easy to get into, mostly lighthearted, and full of great banter and teasing.
Nathan is the classic grumpy goalie who feels lost in different aspects of his life, while Logan is the funny, teasing golden retriever type. I loved how Logan brings out Nathan’s playful side, and in return, Nathan allows Logan to show a softer, more vulnerable side of himself. Their dynamic just works so well.
The chemistry is there from the very first page—you can really feel the tension building right away. It was especially nice to see how comfortable they became with each other, allowing themselves to be truly free.
The ending was very satisfying and sweet, which made the whole journey even more enjoyable.
I also loved the little crumbs we got of Aurora and Cole—I’m already so excited for their book!
Perfect for fans of:
• MM romance
• Teammates-to-lovers
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Sneaking around
March 27, 2026
Another moving, sweet, heartbreaking, and healing romance from Stephanie Alves.
The Play Maker
was one of my favorite reads last year, and the sweet slow burn and tender approach to love that made me enjoy it so much is back here—with new dimension and drama and banter, but the same sort of care and genuine connection.
One of my favorite romance microtropes is when they are the exceptions to each others' rules. I love when a character is just so smitten that they start doing things and acting in ways they usually wouldn't. Seeing playful, cocky Logan being so protective and serious over Nathan; and seeing unruffled, stern Nathan getting emotional and extremely jealous over anyone else even looking at Logan was the best. I love these contradictions so much because it shows how much they mean to each other, and as a reader I can't help but giggle because I know they're acting up, but also because it makes their attraction feel so real.
Watching their relationship go from teammates who banter for fun and push each other's buttons (it's Logan pushing Nathan's buttons really), to reluctant friends and even more reluctant attraction, to full-blown trust and honesty and vulnerability was beautiful. Stephanie is able to perfectly balance the sexual exploration with the emotional turmoil that they both feel as they can't seem to stay away from each other, can't stop confiding in each other, but also can't help but doubt themselves and what they have every step of the way.
My favorite portions of The Risk Taker were definitely in the second half once their relationship really starts to get going, and the angst gets heavy, but the tenderness between them also fully develops. Stephanie tackles sexuality for both of them in different but fulfilling ways—the added layer of Nathan's uncertainty and eagerness to the spice was so hot (I was in "good boy" heaven), but also so meaningful to pushing the story and their personal development forward. Learning about Logan's past and how he feels unwanted (my weakness!) and how that impacts the way he acts with Nathan had me crying big, fat tears into my pillow at the 90% mark; my heart was fully in it with the both of them.
Apart from the romance, I did feel like the interactions with the team (though I am always thrilled to see Austin and Maisie), Nathan's family, and some of the side-plots to be a bit under-developed and slow in the first half of the book. But I also can't really complain when the attention paid to Logan and Nathan's relationship meant that it was so delightful and gratifying to read. And the epilogue really felt earned and had my heart melting.
This series is so quickly becoming one of my favorites in hockey and sports romance—a huge, huge recommendation for those who enjoy swoon-worthy opposites attract tension, really blatant sneaking around because they just can't stay away from each other, and sex with a heaping load of personal baggage and uncertainty on the side, but also with plenty of praise, trust, and heart-pounding hope.
﹙ four-point-five stars ﹚
— thank you so much to the author for the e-arc!
One of my favorite romance microtropes is when they are the exceptions to each others' rules. I love when a character is just so smitten that they start doing things and acting in ways they usually wouldn't. Seeing playful, cocky Logan being so protective and serious over Nathan; and seeing unruffled, stern Nathan getting emotional and extremely jealous over anyone else even looking at Logan was the best. I love these contradictions so much because it shows how much they mean to each other, and as a reader I can't help but giggle because I know they're acting up, but also because it makes their attraction feel so real.
Watching their relationship go from teammates who banter for fun and push each other's buttons (it's Logan pushing Nathan's buttons really), to reluctant friends and even more reluctant attraction, to full-blown trust and honesty and vulnerability was beautiful. Stephanie is able to perfectly balance the sexual exploration with the emotional turmoil that they both feel as they can't seem to stay away from each other, can't stop confiding in each other, but also can't help but doubt themselves and what they have every step of the way.
My favorite portions of The Risk Taker were definitely in the second half once their relationship really starts to get going, and the angst gets heavy, but the tenderness between them also fully develops. Stephanie tackles sexuality for both of them in different but fulfilling ways—the added layer of Nathan's uncertainty and eagerness to the spice was so hot (I was in "good boy" heaven), but also so meaningful to pushing the story and their personal development forward. Learning about Logan's past and how he feels unwanted (my weakness!) and how that impacts the way he acts with Nathan had me crying big, fat tears into my pillow at the 90% mark; my heart was fully in it with the both of them.
Apart from the romance, I did feel like the interactions with the team (though I am always thrilled to see Austin and Maisie), Nathan's family, and some of the side-plots to be a bit under-developed and slow in the first half of the book. But I also can't really complain when the attention paid to Logan and Nathan's relationship meant that it was so delightful and gratifying to read. And the epilogue really felt earned and had my heart melting.
This series is so quickly becoming one of my favorites in hockey and sports romance—a huge, huge recommendation for those who enjoy swoon-worthy opposites attract tension, really blatant sneaking around because they just can't stay away from each other, and sex with a heaping load of personal baggage and uncertainty on the side, but also with plenty of praise, trust, and heart-pounding hope.
﹙ four-point-five stars ﹚
— thank you so much to the author for the e-arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review: The Risk Taker by Stephanie Alves
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
First of all, thank you to Stephanie Alves for trusting me with an early copy of The Risk Taker.
Before I even started this book, I was in the worst reading slump of my life. I’m talking almost a full month without finishing a single book, which for me is basically unheard of. But I had this little voice in my head saying Stephanie’s writing will fix it. And guess what? It absolutely did.
From the first few chapters I was already flying through the pages.
Nathan and Logan’s story completely consumed me.
This book has everything I love about Stephanie’s writing: the emotional depth, the chaotic friend group energy, the banter, the tension, and characters that feel so real it hurts. I missed this crew so much, and getting to jump back into their world felt like coming home.
Logan and Nathan balance each other in the most beautiful way. Logan is bold, reckless, and unapologetically himself, while Nathan has spent so long keeping parts of himself locked away. Watching those walls slowly break down between them was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.
And when the tension finally snaps...oh my god!
The moment Nathan finally stops fighting it and kisses Logan? I was SCREAMING.
But what really got me was how emotional their journey becomes. Logan’s vulnerability absolutely shattered me at times, and the quiet realization of falling in love was written so beautifully:
“I always assumed falling in love would come with a huge realization...instead it crept in quietly.”
There were so many moments that hit hard emotionally, especially Logan’s past and Nathan learning how to love someone out loud. And the scene with Nathan’s dad had me literally sobbing.
Also...can we talk about the friend group chaos for a second? Because the crumbs we got for Aurora and Cole had me feral.
I am DESPERATE for their book.
Then last but certainly not least, that epilogue was the cutest thing ever!
If you love:
• hockey romance vibes
• opposites attract
• emotional slow burn with explosive tension
• found family friend groups
• vulnerable, character-driven love stories
then The Risk Taker is absolutely one you need on your radar.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
First of all, thank you to Stephanie Alves for trusting me with an early copy of The Risk Taker.
Before I even started this book, I was in the worst reading slump of my life. I’m talking almost a full month without finishing a single book, which for me is basically unheard of. But I had this little voice in my head saying Stephanie’s writing will fix it. And guess what? It absolutely did.
From the first few chapters I was already flying through the pages.
Nathan and Logan’s story completely consumed me.
This book has everything I love about Stephanie’s writing: the emotional depth, the chaotic friend group energy, the banter, the tension, and characters that feel so real it hurts. I missed this crew so much, and getting to jump back into their world felt like coming home.
Logan and Nathan balance each other in the most beautiful way. Logan is bold, reckless, and unapologetically himself, while Nathan has spent so long keeping parts of himself locked away. Watching those walls slowly break down between them was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.
And when the tension finally snaps...oh my god!
The moment Nathan finally stops fighting it and kisses Logan? I was SCREAMING.
But what really got me was how emotional their journey becomes. Logan’s vulnerability absolutely shattered me at times, and the quiet realization of falling in love was written so beautifully:
“I always assumed falling in love would come with a huge realization...instead it crept in quietly.”
There were so many moments that hit hard emotionally, especially Logan’s past and Nathan learning how to love someone out loud. And the scene with Nathan’s dad had me literally sobbing.
Also...can we talk about the friend group chaos for a second? Because the crumbs we got for Aurora and Cole had me feral.
I am DESPERATE for their book.
Then last but certainly not least, that epilogue was the cutest thing ever!
If you love:
• hockey romance vibes
• opposites attract
• emotional slow burn with explosive tension
• found family friend groups
• vulnerable, character-driven love stories
then The Risk Taker is absolutely one you need on your radar.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵💌
𝟱/𝟱 ⭐️
I’m not okay after this book. I’m really not okay ‼️
I had been waiting for it since BEFORE the author even announced it, and somehow it still managed to exceed all my expectations.
Logan and Nathan… I don’t even know where to begin.
Logan, with everything he’s been through, carrying all that pain behind a smile, always acting like the strong, funny one... and still having the biggest heart ever??? I need to protect him with my life.
and Nathan.
GOD. reading Nathan hurts. because he doesn’t know who he really is. he’s spent his whole life trying to be what everyone else expects him to be. hiding, denying himself, breaking in silence. he’s the kind of character that frustrates you and breaks your heart at the same time.
and their dynamic???
Logan flirting like his life depends on it and Nathan like “no, no, no, this is not happening” when it’s VERY MUCH happening ‼️‼️‼️
their thoughts, the tension, the denial, the longing… EVERYTHING. I felt EVERYTHING.
Logan is officially my favorite in the series. no discussion 🧚🏻♀️ the way he loves, so openly, without fear, without hiding, being so honest about what Nathan makes him feel… it destroyed me.
“You make me feel like I matter, Hayes.”
I CAN’T WITH THIS LINE.
and when everyone finds out??? AND THE COACH???
sorry but I stopped being a person at that point.
this book is perfect for those who want to read a story with a beautiful ending, but a development where fear, confusion, tension, and desire are portrayed in such a real way that it hurts and completely pulls you in 💌
because in the end, that’s what it’s about…
finding someone who chooses you.always.
“He chose me.
And I choose him right back.”
🏒 🏒🏒
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲ñ𝗮 𝗲𝗻 𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗮ñ𝗼𝗹
𝟱/𝟱 ⭐️
no estoy bien después de este libro. de verdad que no estoy bien ‼️‼️
llevaba esperándolo desde ANTES de que la autora siquiera dijera que existía, y aún así logró superar completamente mis expectativas.
logan y nathan… no sé ni por dónde empezar.
logan, con todo lo que ha vivido, ese dolor constante escondido detrás de una sonrisa, haciéndose el fuerte, el divertido, y aún así teniendo el corazón más grande del mundo??? necesito protegerlo con mi vida.
y nathan.
DIOS. leer a nathan duele, no sabe quién es, ya que ha pasado toda su vida intentando ser lo que los demás esperan de él. negándose, escondiéndose, rompiéndose en silencio. es de esos personajes que te desesperan y te parten el alma al mismo tiempo.
y la dinámica entre ellos???
logan coqueteando como si respirar dependiera de eso y nathan tipo “no, no, no, esto no está pasando” mientras claramente ESTÁ PASANDO 😭
sus pensamientos, su tensión, la negación, el deseo… TODO. lo sentí TODO.
logan es oficialmente mi favorito de la serie. no hay discusión. la forma en que ama, sin miedo, sin esconderse, siendo tan honesto con lo que siente por nathan… me rompió por completo.
“You make me feel like I matter, Hayes.”
NO PUEDO CON ESTA FRASE.
y cuando todos se enteran??? Y EL ENTRENADOR???
perdón pero yo dejé de ser una persona razonable en ese momento.
este libro es perfecto para quienes quieren leer un libro con un final hermoso, pero con un desarrollo donde se ven plasmados los miedos, la confusión, la tensión y el deseo de una forma tan real que duele y a la vez te envuelve completamente.
porque al final se trata de eso… de encontrar a alguien que te elija. siempre
“He chose me.
And I choose him right back.”
𝟱/𝟱 ⭐️
I’m not okay after this book. I’m really not okay ‼️
I had been waiting for it since BEFORE the author even announced it, and somehow it still managed to exceed all my expectations.
Logan and Nathan… I don’t even know where to begin.
Logan, with everything he’s been through, carrying all that pain behind a smile, always acting like the strong, funny one... and still having the biggest heart ever??? I need to protect him with my life.
and Nathan.
GOD. reading Nathan hurts. because he doesn’t know who he really is. he’s spent his whole life trying to be what everyone else expects him to be. hiding, denying himself, breaking in silence. he’s the kind of character that frustrates you and breaks your heart at the same time.
and their dynamic???
Logan flirting like his life depends on it and Nathan like “no, no, no, this is not happening” when it’s VERY MUCH happening ‼️‼️‼️
their thoughts, the tension, the denial, the longing… EVERYTHING. I felt EVERYTHING.
Logan is officially my favorite in the series. no discussion 🧚🏻♀️ the way he loves, so openly, without fear, without hiding, being so honest about what Nathan makes him feel… it destroyed me.
“You make me feel like I matter, Hayes.”
I CAN’T WITH THIS LINE.
and when everyone finds out??? AND THE COACH???
sorry but I stopped being a person at that point.
this book is perfect for those who want to read a story with a beautiful ending, but a development where fear, confusion, tension, and desire are portrayed in such a real way that it hurts and completely pulls you in 💌
because in the end, that’s what it’s about…
finding someone who chooses you.always.
“He chose me.
And I choose him right back.”
🏒 🏒🏒
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲ñ𝗮 𝗲𝗻 𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗮ñ𝗼𝗹
𝟱/𝟱 ⭐️
no estoy bien después de este libro. de verdad que no estoy bien ‼️‼️
llevaba esperándolo desde ANTES de que la autora siquiera dijera que existía, y aún así logró superar completamente mis expectativas.
logan y nathan… no sé ni por dónde empezar.
logan, con todo lo que ha vivido, ese dolor constante escondido detrás de una sonrisa, haciéndose el fuerte, el divertido, y aún así teniendo el corazón más grande del mundo??? necesito protegerlo con mi vida.
y nathan.
DIOS. leer a nathan duele, no sabe quién es, ya que ha pasado toda su vida intentando ser lo que los demás esperan de él. negándose, escondiéndose, rompiéndose en silencio. es de esos personajes que te desesperan y te parten el alma al mismo tiempo.
y la dinámica entre ellos???
logan coqueteando como si respirar dependiera de eso y nathan tipo “no, no, no, esto no está pasando” mientras claramente ESTÁ PASANDO 😭
sus pensamientos, su tensión, la negación, el deseo… TODO. lo sentí TODO.
logan es oficialmente mi favorito de la serie. no hay discusión. la forma en que ama, sin miedo, sin esconderse, siendo tan honesto con lo que siente por nathan… me rompió por completo.
“You make me feel like I matter, Hayes.”
NO PUEDO CON ESTA FRASE.
y cuando todos se enteran??? Y EL ENTRENADOR???
perdón pero yo dejé de ser una persona razonable en ese momento.
este libro es perfecto para quienes quieren leer un libro con un final hermoso, pero con un desarrollo donde se ven plasmados los miedos, la confusión, la tensión y el deseo de una forma tan real que duele y a la vez te envuelve completamente.
porque al final se trata de eso… de encontrar a alguien que te elija. siempre
“He chose me.
And I choose him right back.”
April 1, 2026
4 ✿
Nathan Hayes wants me. He just has no idea what the hell to do about it.
And i can’t wait until he figured it out.
✩₊˚ ☾┊Thoughts and summary
Thank you to Stephanie Alves and LoveNotes PR for providing me with this ARC.
This was my first book by Stephanie, and I honestly loved it so much. It definitely did not disappoint. After reading this, I really want to read Ryan and Izzy’s book, and also Austin and Maisie’s 🤭
The story hooked me from the beginning. Both Nathan and Logan really caught my attention. Logan has that golden retriever energy—he’s funny, warm, and easy to love—while Nathan is more quiet, serious, and broody as the grumpy goalie. I really liked how different they were, because it made their dynamic even better.
The tension between them was so good and felt natural. Even though I usually love slow burn, this didn’t feel rushed at all. The pacing felt just right for me. I also really enjoyed Nathan’s character development. He was so focused on being perfect in everything, hockey, family, life, but once he started spending time with Logan, you could slowly see him relax and open up more.
ׂ╰┈➤ Tropes
❀ MM romance
❀ Hockey romance
❀ Broody x golden retriever
❀ Sneaking around
──── 𝜗𝜚
⋆˚࿔ Logan Gray 𝜗𝜚˚
I really loved Logan. He’s such a sweet and caring person, and I just wanted to give him a hug the whole time. He’s the type of character that makes you feel happy when he’s on the page.
I also loved how he found people who truly cared about him. His friends becoming his family was so nice to read. You can tell how much that meant to him. I do wish we got a bit more about his real family and their reaction, but I’m also okay with how it was done because his family was completely irrelevant.
I always assumed falling in love would come with a huge realisation. A slamming sensation. Instead it crept in quietly, starting somewhere around the first kiss, settling deeper each time without me noticing.
⋆˚࿔ Nathan Hayes 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
Nathan was such a well-written character. I really liked his journey. He was confused and trying to understand himself, but it never felt like he hated himself. It was more like he was just trying to figure things out, which felt very real.
You could tell he liked Logan from early on, but he didn’t fully understand his feelings at first. Watching him slowly realise everything and accept it was really nice to read. One of my favourite parts was his family’s reaction. Izzy was great, but I especially loved his dad’s reaction. They were so supportive, and that made the moment even more special.
“I’m not scared anymore.” He says. “Not if it means i get to have you.” For the first time in weeks, i feel like i can breathe. He’s still holding onto me like he might never let go, and i hope he never does.
⋆˚࿔ Nathan & Logan 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
Nathan and Logan together were so soft and sweet. Once Nathan started opening up, their relationship grew in such a natural way.
I loved how they communicated and supported each other. You could really see their growth, both as individuals and as a couple. They made me smile so much—I was literally giggling and kicking my feet every time I read their scenes.
Nathan Hayes wants me. He just has no idea what the hell to do about it.
And i can’t wait until he figured it out.
✩₊˚ ☾┊Thoughts and summary
Thank you to Stephanie Alves and LoveNotes PR for providing me with this ARC.
This was my first book by Stephanie, and I honestly loved it so much. It definitely did not disappoint. After reading this, I really want to read Ryan and Izzy’s book, and also Austin and Maisie’s 🤭
The story hooked me from the beginning. Both Nathan and Logan really caught my attention. Logan has that golden retriever energy—he’s funny, warm, and easy to love—while Nathan is more quiet, serious, and broody as the grumpy goalie. I really liked how different they were, because it made their dynamic even better.
The tension between them was so good and felt natural. Even though I usually love slow burn, this didn’t feel rushed at all. The pacing felt just right for me. I also really enjoyed Nathan’s character development. He was so focused on being perfect in everything, hockey, family, life, but once he started spending time with Logan, you could slowly see him relax and open up more.
ׂ╰┈➤ Tropes
❀ MM romance
❀ Hockey romance
❀ Broody x golden retriever
❀ Sneaking around
──── 𝜗𝜚
⋆˚࿔ Logan Gray 𝜗𝜚˚
I really loved Logan. He’s such a sweet and caring person, and I just wanted to give him a hug the whole time. He’s the type of character that makes you feel happy when he’s on the page.
I also loved how he found people who truly cared about him. His friends becoming his family was so nice to read. You can tell how much that meant to him. I do wish we got a bit more about his real family and their reaction, but I’m also okay with how it was done because his family was completely irrelevant.
I always assumed falling in love would come with a huge realisation. A slamming sensation. Instead it crept in quietly, starting somewhere around the first kiss, settling deeper each time without me noticing.
⋆˚࿔ Nathan Hayes 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
Nathan was such a well-written character. I really liked his journey. He was confused and trying to understand himself, but it never felt like he hated himself. It was more like he was just trying to figure things out, which felt very real.
You could tell he liked Logan from early on, but he didn’t fully understand his feelings at first. Watching him slowly realise everything and accept it was really nice to read. One of my favourite parts was his family’s reaction. Izzy was great, but I especially loved his dad’s reaction. They were so supportive, and that made the moment even more special.
“I’m not scared anymore.” He says. “Not if it means i get to have you.” For the first time in weeks, i feel like i can breathe. He’s still holding onto me like he might never let go, and i hope he never does.
⋆˚࿔ Nathan & Logan 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
Nathan and Logan together were so soft and sweet. Once Nathan started opening up, their relationship grew in such a natural way.
I loved how they communicated and supported each other. You could really see their growth, both as individuals and as a couple. They made me smile so much—I was literally giggling and kicking my feet every time I read their scenes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Disclaimer: I was given a free ARC of The Risk Taker by Stephanie Alves and Love Notes PR in exchange for a review
The Risk Taker is book three in the Colton U Playbook series, Stephanie Alves’s most recent contemporary romance series. I have been a fan of Stephanie Alves since her Campus Games series, and when I found out that she was writing a MM romance I was so excited to read it, and I was not let down in the slightest.
The Risk Taker follows Nathan, the son of his team’s ice hockey coach, and Logan, one of Nathan’s teammates. Nathan’s dad tasks Nathan with keeping an eye out on Logan, because he’s partying too much, and it’s dragging their team down. Nathan is very much a follow the rules type of man who always does everything he’s supposed to whereas Logan is very free-spiritied, and essentially does as he pleases.
What made The Risk Taker stand out to me was both how perfectly Nathan and Logan fit together, and the progression of their relationship. They start off pushing each other’s buttons and not really getting along, to having an almost FWB type of arrangement, and by the end of the book they’re completely head over heels for each other which was so satisfying to read.
One of my favorite parts about The Risk Taker, other than the romance between Nathan and Logan, was Nathan’s character development. I loved how at the beginning he was so stuck in his ways, and determined to be the perfect player, perfect son, perfect everything, and then as him and Logan are spending more time together, Nathan begins to loosen up. Towards about the 50% mark Logan encourages Nathan to go down the path in life that he wants and not that everyone else wants him to be, which was both very wholesome and added an entire new dimension to their relationship and Nathan’s character. More on Nathan, his struggles with accepting himself and his sexuality was so relatable to read about, and it was so gratifying seeing him proclaim his love for Logan at the end of the book. I also really enjoyed the fact that Nathan and Logan had vastly different backgrounds, and as they start to butt heads at the end of the book, you can perfectly understand why.
Overall, The Risk Taker was definitely a 5-star read for me. This book did what every romance book should do: it made me sequel and grin so many times while reading and served as a perfect escape from reality. If you’re looking for a fun and steamy romance to dive into that explores some important topics like choosing the path that you want and not what others want you do and accepting yourself then I would definitely recommending giving The Risk Taker a try when it comes out on April 7th.
The Risk Taker is book three in the Colton U Playbook series, Stephanie Alves’s most recent contemporary romance series. I have been a fan of Stephanie Alves since her Campus Games series, and when I found out that she was writing a MM romance I was so excited to read it, and I was not let down in the slightest.
The Risk Taker follows Nathan, the son of his team’s ice hockey coach, and Logan, one of Nathan’s teammates. Nathan’s dad tasks Nathan with keeping an eye out on Logan, because he’s partying too much, and it’s dragging their team down. Nathan is very much a follow the rules type of man who always does everything he’s supposed to whereas Logan is very free-spiritied, and essentially does as he pleases.
What made The Risk Taker stand out to me was both how perfectly Nathan and Logan fit together, and the progression of their relationship. They start off pushing each other’s buttons and not really getting along, to having an almost FWB type of arrangement, and by the end of the book they’re completely head over heels for each other which was so satisfying to read.
One of my favorite parts about The Risk Taker, other than the romance between Nathan and Logan, was Nathan’s character development. I loved how at the beginning he was so stuck in his ways, and determined to be the perfect player, perfect son, perfect everything, and then as him and Logan are spending more time together, Nathan begins to loosen up. Towards about the 50% mark Logan encourages Nathan to go down the path in life that he wants and not that everyone else wants him to be, which was both very wholesome and added an entire new dimension to their relationship and Nathan’s character. More on Nathan, his struggles with accepting himself and his sexuality was so relatable to read about, and it was so gratifying seeing him proclaim his love for Logan at the end of the book. I also really enjoyed the fact that Nathan and Logan had vastly different backgrounds, and as they start to butt heads at the end of the book, you can perfectly understand why.
Overall, The Risk Taker was definitely a 5-star read for me. This book did what every romance book should do: it made me sequel and grin so many times while reading and served as a perfect escape from reality. If you’re looking for a fun and steamy romance to dive into that explores some important topics like choosing the path that you want and not what others want you do and accepting yourself then I would definitely recommending giving The Risk Taker a try when it comes out on April 7th.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hello, new favorite book and 6-star infinity read! Welcome to my "to be re-read" shelf.
I cannot express how much I loved the story of Logan and Nathan. I knew upon meeting both of them in The Rule Breaker that something was going to happen. The casual teasing of Logan to Nathan, the way Nathan's eyes always stayed on Logan just a beat too long. Oh, the tension was brewing in The Rule Breaker and just got even better in The Play Maker. I have been waiting for The Risk Taker for almost a year.
Stephanie did an amazing job on her first M/M book. Logan's cocky attitude, his confidence masking his insecurities...chef's kiss. If I had to put a tiny critique down, it would be this: more. I wanted more of Logan... of his struggles, of how he went from those struggles at 16 (no spoilers) until this day, maybe a little extra on his family life and childhood, and how he got close to the guys who are not only his teammates but also his roommates. However, that is just me being greedy for more. The story didn't need those extra details to make me feel like I knew Logan or was acquainted with or connected to his character. I just want more.
Nathan...I think Stephanie did an amazing job with his coming out story and self-discovery. He was on a journey of curiosity and trying. I thought Nathan was going to go through more of a self-hate or denial period, and while yes, he did question a lot about himself in silence, it was never self-loathing or anything like that. It was just a feeling of curiosity and a sense of not knowing who he really was. Nathan's entire journey, over the months we saw on these pages, was about answering questions and learning to slowly accept himself, from a place of openness and grace without self-destruction or shame.
The relationship between Logan and Nathan, once they allowed themselves to explore, was so sweet. And the reaction from Nathan's family and teammates was so heartwarming. I wish it were a reality for all young people when they come out to have that unwavering support and acceptance; however, I know that is not how the world really works. But if we are reading about these fictitious lives, let's make sure they are the HEA we need right now.
This book brought a huge smile to my face.
Thank you, Stephanie and LoveNotes PR for the ARC copy. This is definitely a book I will be revisiting.
I cannot express how much I loved the story of Logan and Nathan. I knew upon meeting both of them in The Rule Breaker that something was going to happen. The casual teasing of Logan to Nathan, the way Nathan's eyes always stayed on Logan just a beat too long. Oh, the tension was brewing in The Rule Breaker and just got even better in The Play Maker. I have been waiting for The Risk Taker for almost a year.
Stephanie did an amazing job on her first M/M book. Logan's cocky attitude, his confidence masking his insecurities...chef's kiss. If I had to put a tiny critique down, it would be this: more. I wanted more of Logan... of his struggles, of how he went from those struggles at 16 (no spoilers) until this day, maybe a little extra on his family life and childhood, and how he got close to the guys who are not only his teammates but also his roommates. However, that is just me being greedy for more. The story didn't need those extra details to make me feel like I knew Logan or was acquainted with or connected to his character. I just want more.
Nathan...I think Stephanie did an amazing job with his coming out story and self-discovery. He was on a journey of curiosity and trying. I thought Nathan was going to go through more of a self-hate or denial period, and while yes, he did question a lot about himself in silence, it was never self-loathing or anything like that. It was just a feeling of curiosity and a sense of not knowing who he really was. Nathan's entire journey, over the months we saw on these pages, was about answering questions and learning to slowly accept himself, from a place of openness and grace without self-destruction or shame.
The relationship between Logan and Nathan, once they allowed themselves to explore, was so sweet. And the reaction from Nathan's family and teammates was so heartwarming. I wish it were a reality for all young people when they come out to have that unwavering support and acceptance; however, I know that is not how the world really works. But if we are reading about these fictitious lives, let's make sure they are the HEA we need right now.
This book brought a huge smile to my face.
Thank you, Stephanie and LoveNotes PR for the ARC copy. This is definitely a book I will be revisiting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“𝐇𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐦𝐞. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤.”
I knew The Risk Taker was going to be good, but I didn’t expect it to become one of my favorites by Stephanie. It pulled me in almost immediately, and before I knew it I was completely invested in Nathan and Logan’s story, and I couldn’t put it down.
Stephanie just gets how to write characters that feel real. They’re messy, confused, and trying so hard to be who they think they’re supposed to be. And you feel all of it.
Nathan really got to me. He’s spent so long living his life for other people, always choosing the safe option and holding himself back. Watching him question everything, slowly unravel, and figure out who he actually is… it hurt in the best way. His growth felt so real and so earned.
And Logan. I loved him immediately, but he ended up meaning so much more than I expected. He’s bold, chaotic, and constantly pushing boundaries, but underneath all of that there’s so much heart. He feels everything deeply, even when he tries to pretend he doesn’t, and the way he loves openly and honestly was probably my favorite part of the whole book.
Their dynamic is everything I love in a romance. They push each other, challenge each other, and completely mess with each other’s heads. The tension between them is constant, full of denial, longing, and moments where you just know it’s about to snap. And when it finally does, it’s so worth it.
The emotional moments really stuck with me, especially the quieter ones that caught me off guard. The scenes where everything slows down and you can see exactly what they mean to each other made this story hit even harder. Learning how to love someone openly, without fear, without hiding is what made it feel so real.
The friend group added so much to it. That chaotic, found-family dynamic made everything feel warmer, and honestly, I missed them. Being back in this world felt like coming home.
This is one of those books that stays with you after you finish it. The kind you keep thinking about, the kind you know you’ll go back to. I’d read their story all over again without even thinking about it. Huge thanks to Stephanie and Love Notes PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.25 ⭐️
I knew The Risk Taker was going to be good, but I didn’t expect it to become one of my favorites by Stephanie. It pulled me in almost immediately, and before I knew it I was completely invested in Nathan and Logan’s story, and I couldn’t put it down.
Stephanie just gets how to write characters that feel real. They’re messy, confused, and trying so hard to be who they think they’re supposed to be. And you feel all of it.
Nathan really got to me. He’s spent so long living his life for other people, always choosing the safe option and holding himself back. Watching him question everything, slowly unravel, and figure out who he actually is… it hurt in the best way. His growth felt so real and so earned.
And Logan. I loved him immediately, but he ended up meaning so much more than I expected. He’s bold, chaotic, and constantly pushing boundaries, but underneath all of that there’s so much heart. He feels everything deeply, even when he tries to pretend he doesn’t, and the way he loves openly and honestly was probably my favorite part of the whole book.
Their dynamic is everything I love in a romance. They push each other, challenge each other, and completely mess with each other’s heads. The tension between them is constant, full of denial, longing, and moments where you just know it’s about to snap. And when it finally does, it’s so worth it.
The emotional moments really stuck with me, especially the quieter ones that caught me off guard. The scenes where everything slows down and you can see exactly what they mean to each other made this story hit even harder. Learning how to love someone openly, without fear, without hiding is what made it feel so real.
The friend group added so much to it. That chaotic, found-family dynamic made everything feel warmer, and honestly, I missed them. Being back in this world felt like coming home.
This is one of those books that stays with you after you finish it. The kind you keep thinking about, the kind you know you’ll go back to. I’d read their story all over again without even thinking about it. Huge thanks to Stephanie and Love Notes PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.25 ⭐️
Review of advance copy
There aren’t enough stars to give
I went into this already knowing I would love it, because if Stephanie writes it I always will, but it was just ten times better than my expectations.
Every single aspect was crafter and written with care. The banter, the slow burn, the self doubt and sad moments, the honest and brave points…everything brought me to tears. I don’t really cry with books, but Nathan and Logan got me.
Nathan was just so good. He was a good man to his core, he didn’t want to disappoint his father but was drowning in his feelings, his confusion and doubt were heartbreaking. Seeing the way he changed, the way he grew into his confidence and the love he didn’t realize was there. I loved him the second I met him and I will love him forever.
And my boy Logan, chaotic perfection. His happy go lucky charm and flirty teasing…he was hiding so much, I knew he would become my favorite person, but he broke a piece of my heart to keep. He deserved the light, the praise, to be loved out loud because he wasn’t too much, or wrong or anything but him, and he was incredible.
I’m getting emotional writing this because they were just that good. Stephanie, you never fail to amaze me, but this book will live in a corner of my heart forever.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to LoveNotesPR and Stephanie, for the opportunity to read this early.
Quotes:
Now that I've tasted him, I know without a doubt I'm ruined. There's no turning back, no pretending that one kiss, or ten, or a hundred, could ever be enough.
I don't think I've ever wanted someone like this before. And it honest-to-God scares the hell out of me.
"You fit so perfectly in my arms," he says, his breath hot against my lips. "Just how I fit perfectly inside you."
"Love how I fuck you? How every inch of your body is mine to please?"
I always assumed falling in love would come with a huge realization. A slamming sensation. Instead, it crept in quietly, starting somewhere around the first kiss, settling deeper each time without me noticing.
I went into this already knowing I would love it, because if Stephanie writes it I always will, but it was just ten times better than my expectations.
Every single aspect was crafter and written with care. The banter, the slow burn, the self doubt and sad moments, the honest and brave points…everything brought me to tears. I don’t really cry with books, but Nathan and Logan got me.
Nathan was just so good. He was a good man to his core, he didn’t want to disappoint his father but was drowning in his feelings, his confusion and doubt were heartbreaking. Seeing the way he changed, the way he grew into his confidence and the love he didn’t realize was there. I loved him the second I met him and I will love him forever.
And my boy Logan, chaotic perfection. His happy go lucky charm and flirty teasing…he was hiding so much, I knew he would become my favorite person, but he broke a piece of my heart to keep. He deserved the light, the praise, to be loved out loud because he wasn’t too much, or wrong or anything but him, and he was incredible.
I’m getting emotional writing this because they were just that good. Stephanie, you never fail to amaze me, but this book will live in a corner of my heart forever.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to LoveNotesPR and Stephanie, for the opportunity to read this early.
Quotes:
Now that I've tasted him, I know without a doubt I'm ruined. There's no turning back, no pretending that one kiss, or ten, or a hundred, could ever be enough.
I don't think I've ever wanted someone like this before. And it honest-to-God scares the hell out of me.
"You fit so perfectly in my arms," he says, his breath hot against my lips. "Just how I fit perfectly inside you."
"Love how I fuck you? How every inch of your body is mine to please?"
I always assumed falling in love would come with a huge realization. A slamming sensation. Instead, it crept in quietly, starting somewhere around the first kiss, settling deeper each time without me noticing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*4.25 stars!!
thank you to the author and love notes PR for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review! all thoughts and opinions are my own.
when i saw the teasers for this mm college hockey romance, i knew i HAD to have the ARC. despite not knowing much about this series or author, i just had a good feeling that this book would be exactly what i needed. i’m so glad to say that i had such a great time with this!
i loved the dynamic between logan and nathan so much. logan’s flirtatiousness and charm alongside nathan’s shy, broody exterior made for a romance that brought out the best in one another. i was also loving the slow burn lead up. the author really makes you work for it and the tension was through the ROOF. the romantic development was properly paced and the intimate scenes were super well done—both sexy and emotionally vulnerable. it may start off as a deep attraction that neither one of them can fully explain, but it evolves into so much more. for how fun and sexy a lot of this book is, i was actually pleasantly surprised by its sweet tenderness. there were so many moments that i found to be soft and lovely. it was so nice to see logan and nathan slowly become endeared by one another and open their hearts.
the only things i’ll note would be that there was a little bit of repetition in the writing such as reuse of specific phrases and the similar way of starting each chapter. i also would have loved if it was a tad longer so we could have gotten a greater expansion of logan’s backstory and nathan coming to terms with not only his career choices, but his sexuality. i think those things should have had more time to be fully explored.
i truly hope this author considers writing more queer romances because i think she has quite the talent for it! this was exactly what i wanted from an mm college hockey romance and i couldn’t recommend it enough. definitely one of my new favourites that i can see myself coming back to!
thank you to the author and love notes PR for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review! all thoughts and opinions are my own.
when i saw the teasers for this mm college hockey romance, i knew i HAD to have the ARC. despite not knowing much about this series or author, i just had a good feeling that this book would be exactly what i needed. i’m so glad to say that i had such a great time with this!
i loved the dynamic between logan and nathan so much. logan’s flirtatiousness and charm alongside nathan’s shy, broody exterior made for a romance that brought out the best in one another. i was also loving the slow burn lead up. the author really makes you work for it and the tension was through the ROOF. the romantic development was properly paced and the intimate scenes were super well done—both sexy and emotionally vulnerable. it may start off as a deep attraction that neither one of them can fully explain, but it evolves into so much more. for how fun and sexy a lot of this book is, i was actually pleasantly surprised by its sweet tenderness. there were so many moments that i found to be soft and lovely. it was so nice to see logan and nathan slowly become endeared by one another and open their hearts.
the only things i’ll note would be that there was a little bit of repetition in the writing such as reuse of specific phrases and the similar way of starting each chapter. i also would have loved if it was a tad longer so we could have gotten a greater expansion of logan’s backstory and nathan coming to terms with not only his career choices, but his sexuality. i think those things should have had more time to be fully explored.
i truly hope this author considers writing more queer romances because i think she has quite the talent for it! this was exactly what i wanted from an mm college hockey romance and i couldn’t recommend it enough. definitely one of my new favourites that i can see myself coming back to!
Review of advance copy received from Autore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was so happy i got chooses to be an ARC reader for this book and it didn't disappoint! (comes out april 10th)
This is only the second book I’ve read from Stephanie Alves, but at this point I’m convinced I’ve found a new favorite author. There’s just something about her writing style that completely pulls me in—it’s so smooth, so engaging, and so easy to get lost in. I didn’t want to put this book down.
The characters are honestly one of my favorite parts. They’re so well written and feel incredibly real and relatable. I know absolutely nothing about hockey, and I’m definitely not a man, but somehow I connected to their emotions so deeply. The way their feelings, struggles, and relationships are portrayed made it feel like I could actually be friends with all of them, and that’s something I always look for in books.
The two main characters especially felt so real—like they were trying to come right off the pages. Their connection was intense in the best way, and I was completely invested in them from the start.
The banter was so good—sharp, funny, and natural—and the slow burn? Absolutely perfect. The tension had me hooked: the secret touches, the furtive glances… I was literally gripping my Kindle, not gonna lie.
I also loved getting to see characters from her other book again. Austin and Maisie still own a piece of my heart, and it was so fun seeing them here. But beyond them, the entire group dynamic is just amazing. They truly feel like a found family, and that warmth and connection between all of them made the story even more special.
And can we talk about Cole and Aurora for a second… because I definitely need more of them 👀
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. Stephanie Alves has officially earned a spot on my auto-read author list, and I’m already running to pick up everything she’s ever written. 💙
I was so happy i got chooses to be an ARC reader for this book and it didn't disappoint! (comes out april 10th)
This is only the second book I’ve read from Stephanie Alves, but at this point I’m convinced I’ve found a new favorite author. There’s just something about her writing style that completely pulls me in—it’s so smooth, so engaging, and so easy to get lost in. I didn’t want to put this book down.
The characters are honestly one of my favorite parts. They’re so well written and feel incredibly real and relatable. I know absolutely nothing about hockey, and I’m definitely not a man, but somehow I connected to their emotions so deeply. The way their feelings, struggles, and relationships are portrayed made it feel like I could actually be friends with all of them, and that’s something I always look for in books.
The two main characters especially felt so real—like they were trying to come right off the pages. Their connection was intense in the best way, and I was completely invested in them from the start.
The banter was so good—sharp, funny, and natural—and the slow burn? Absolutely perfect. The tension had me hooked: the secret touches, the furtive glances… I was literally gripping my Kindle, not gonna lie.
I also loved getting to see characters from her other book again. Austin and Maisie still own a piece of my heart, and it was so fun seeing them here. But beyond them, the entire group dynamic is just amazing. They truly feel like a found family, and that warmth and connection between all of them made the story even more special.
And can we talk about Cole and Aurora for a second… because I definitely need more of them 👀
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. Stephanie Alves has officially earned a spot on my auto-read author list, and I’m already running to pick up everything she’s ever written. 💙
Review of advance copy
First off, thank you to Love Notes PR and Stephanie Alves for this opportunity to read this ARC. I’m so grateful!
Literally, where to even begin. This book exceeded my expectations by a long shot, and they were set pretty high. I will be thinking about them for the foreseeable future.
I loved Nathan and Logan from the start. Their banter and tension were palpable. The way Logan kept tormenting Nathan was because he loved seeing his cheeks go pink and the corners of his mouth twitch. When Nathan finally snapped, I screamed. I was so excited. I loved how both of them felt so comfortable so fast, how honest they were with each other, and how patient Logan was with Nathan. I loved their big romantic moments when Logan planned their not date just so Nathan could skate for himself instead of everyone else. Logan, you are such a lover boy, it’s not even funny. I also loved their quiet moments with their pinkies hooked and stolen glances. I loved how they became each other’s safe space, and they were both able to be vulnerable.
Don’t even get me started on Nathan inviting Logan to spend Christmas with his family because Logan said he’d be spending the holidays alone at the house. SO PRECIOUS!!!!
AND THE FIRST TIME THEY SAY I LOVE YOU? I WAS GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET!!!
And everyone’s reaction to them coming out?? Nothing but the best support for my two little hockey players. The coach’s reaction? Perfection, it was such a heart-warming moment that was beautifully written.
**Epilogue warning** I will say I was interested to see Nathan take Logan’s last name in the Epilogue - just because I figured Logan would’ve been trying to drop his last name ASAP, but I think it was sweet that Nathan did that.
Will be (semi) patiently waiting for Cole and Aurora’s story!
Literally, where to even begin. This book exceeded my expectations by a long shot, and they were set pretty high. I will be thinking about them for the foreseeable future.
I loved Nathan and Logan from the start. Their banter and tension were palpable. The way Logan kept tormenting Nathan was because he loved seeing his cheeks go pink and the corners of his mouth twitch. When Nathan finally snapped, I screamed. I was so excited. I loved how both of them felt so comfortable so fast, how honest they were with each other, and how patient Logan was with Nathan. I loved their big romantic moments when Logan planned their not date just so Nathan could skate for himself instead of everyone else. Logan, you are such a lover boy, it’s not even funny. I also loved their quiet moments with their pinkies hooked and stolen glances. I loved how they became each other’s safe space, and they were both able to be vulnerable.
Don’t even get me started on Nathan inviting Logan to spend Christmas with his family because Logan said he’d be spending the holidays alone at the house. SO PRECIOUS!!!!
AND THE FIRST TIME THEY SAY I LOVE YOU? I WAS GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET!!!
And everyone’s reaction to them coming out?? Nothing but the best support for my two little hockey players. The coach’s reaction? Perfection, it was such a heart-warming moment that was beautifully written.
**Epilogue warning** I will say I was interested to see Nathan take Logan’s last name in the Epilogue - just because I figured Logan would’ve been trying to drop his last name ASAP, but I think it was sweet that Nathan did that.
Will be (semi) patiently waiting for Cole and Aurora’s story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙥𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙚 𝘼𝙡𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙉𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙋𝙍
I completely fell in love with Logan and Nathan’s story. This was such an easy five stars for me, and I’m still not over it.
💭 Thoughts:
From the very beginning, their dynamic had me hooked. The banter, the tension, the way everything slowly builds from something physical into something deeper—it felt so natural and addictive to read. The chemistry between them was insane. Not just in a physical way, but emotionally too. Every interaction felt charged with longing, and I was fully invested in them from start to finish.
🫶 Characters:
Nathan and Logan felt so real to me. Nathan’s internal struggles and vulnerability made my heart ache, while Logan’s confidence mixed with his need to be chosen added so much depth to his character. I loved how different they were—broody vs golden retriever energy—but how perfectly they balanced each other. Watching their growth, both individually and together, made their relationship feel even more meaningful.
🔥 Chemistry:
The tension between them was EVERYTHING. The way they looked at each other, the quiet moments, the jealousy, the emotional pull—it all felt so intense and real. And when things finally shift, it feels completely earned.
🥹 Favorite Moments:
Every single time Logan called Nathan “baby” 😭 I melted. Those small, tender moments—comforting each other, soft touches, quiet reassurance—meant everything to me. It wasn’t just the big moments, but the little ones that made their love feel so genuine.
📚 Overall:
This story had the perfect balance of tension, emotion, and softness. It was messy, heartfelt, and full of growth, and I loved every second of it. I already want to reread just to experience Logan and Nathan all over again.
I completely fell in love with Logan and Nathan’s story. This was such an easy five stars for me, and I’m still not over it.
💭 Thoughts:
From the very beginning, their dynamic had me hooked. The banter, the tension, the way everything slowly builds from something physical into something deeper—it felt so natural and addictive to read. The chemistry between them was insane. Not just in a physical way, but emotionally too. Every interaction felt charged with longing, and I was fully invested in them from start to finish.
🫶 Characters:
Nathan and Logan felt so real to me. Nathan’s internal struggles and vulnerability made my heart ache, while Logan’s confidence mixed with his need to be chosen added so much depth to his character. I loved how different they were—broody vs golden retriever energy—but how perfectly they balanced each other. Watching their growth, both individually and together, made their relationship feel even more meaningful.
🔥 Chemistry:
The tension between them was EVERYTHING. The way they looked at each other, the quiet moments, the jealousy, the emotional pull—it all felt so intense and real. And when things finally shift, it feels completely earned.
🥹 Favorite Moments:
Every single time Logan called Nathan “baby” 😭 I melted. Those small, tender moments—comforting each other, soft touches, quiet reassurance—meant everything to me. It wasn’t just the big moments, but the little ones that made their love feel so genuine.
📚 Overall:
This story had the perfect balance of tension, emotion, and softness. It was messy, heartfelt, and full of growth, and I loved every second of it. I already want to reread just to experience Logan and Nathan all over again.
April 1, 2026
thank you to love notes PR for providing this ARC!
oh this was absolutely wonderful. this was one of my most anticipated releases of the entire year, so when i got accepted for an arc i literally screamed—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!!
nathan and logan, my beloveds. they’re so precious to me, their relationship is actually everything. the tension!! the flirting!! the banter!! the spice?! hell yeah.
i really loved their dynamic; the chemistry felt believable and made it so easy to root for them and their relationship. i adored how nathan was able to let go of control and just be himself around logan, it was so beautiful to see. and logan finally finding someone who chooses him over and over and loves him loudly (eventually), oh how i love them!!
i do wish we could’ve delved a little more into their backstories - everything felt kind of surface level, in my opinion. particularly logan’s home life/parents; it gets mentioned kind of offhandedly and then doesn’t really get explained any more than that save for one or two scenes. i wish we could’ve expanded that, as i think it would’ve added a lot more character and story depth. we get a little bit more of nathan’s personal/home life as his dad is the coach, but even that wasn’t talked about or seen very much. though i did still enjoy the story and connect to the characters, i just think it would’ve been nice to get a little more exploration in those areas. the beginning of the book mentions abandonment issues but we literally see none of that? that’s honestly my only “issue” with this book, and in saying that, i still absolutely loved it and highly recommend!
definitely give this one a go if you like a mm hockey romance with all the tension and sneaking around.
oh this was absolutely wonderful. this was one of my most anticipated releases of the entire year, so when i got accepted for an arc i literally screamed—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!!
nathan and logan, my beloveds. they’re so precious to me, their relationship is actually everything. the tension!! the flirting!! the banter!! the spice?! hell yeah.
i really loved their dynamic; the chemistry felt believable and made it so easy to root for them and their relationship. i adored how nathan was able to let go of control and just be himself around logan, it was so beautiful to see. and logan finally finding someone who chooses him over and over and loves him loudly (eventually), oh how i love them!!
i do wish we could’ve delved a little more into their backstories - everything felt kind of surface level, in my opinion. particularly logan’s home life/parents; it gets mentioned kind of offhandedly and then doesn’t really get explained any more than that save for one or two scenes. i wish we could’ve expanded that, as i think it would’ve added a lot more character and story depth. we get a little bit more of nathan’s personal/home life as his dad is the coach, but even that wasn’t talked about or seen very much. though i did still enjoy the story and connect to the characters, i just think it would’ve been nice to get a little more exploration in those areas. the beginning of the book mentions abandonment issues but we literally see none of that? that’s honestly my only “issue” with this book, and in saying that, i still absolutely loved it and highly recommend!
definitely give this one a go if you like a mm hockey romance with all the tension and sneaking around.
Review of advance copy received from Author
yup, the risk taker deserves a 4.5 stars in my books.
alright, sue me, i'm guilty for absolutely slurping up the tension and yearning in MM books. like literally I CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF THEM!! i'm having the best time here :3
nathan and logan, the wise one and the wild one. the actual embodiment of grumpy x sunshine trope and opposites attract. THEIR CHEMISTRY WAS FLYING OFF THE CHARTS. so many secret glances, looking away before they notice, hiding behind closed doors, ALL ADDING UP TO THE YEARNING. and don't you love it when the supposedly wise one (in this book its nathan) finally caves, says "fuck it" and just DEVOURS the other mmc (logan). mmhm mmhm MMMMHM!!! the moment when all that yearning and anticipation EXPLODES is just *chef's kiss* >_<
and we can't forget how the banter in this was just so GOOD. there were multiple moments i was just squealing at how flustered nathan got from logan's banter. UGH. SO GOOD.
"I'm not your babysitter"
"You're just my baby"
we also can't remove angst and emotional moments from a good book. and the risk taker had them, although personally i could and would prefer more angst, emotions were flowing, and there was cleverly written angst commonly found in MM romances too. afterwards, we find acceptance, support and love. i just love when LOVE WINS. ps. not mad about the found family trope in this too, so many supportive moments and i love their bond. i'll have to pick up book 1 and 2 now.
i'm so grateful to the author, stephanie alves, and love notes pr for trusting me, and giving me the opportunity to read the risk taker early. <3
alright, sue me, i'm guilty for absolutely slurping up the tension and yearning in MM books. like literally I CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF THEM!! i'm having the best time here :3
nathan and logan, the wise one and the wild one. the actual embodiment of grumpy x sunshine trope and opposites attract. THEIR CHEMISTRY WAS FLYING OFF THE CHARTS. so many secret glances, looking away before they notice, hiding behind closed doors, ALL ADDING UP TO THE YEARNING. and don't you love it when the supposedly wise one (in this book its nathan) finally caves, says "fuck it" and just DEVOURS the other mmc (logan). mmhm mmhm MMMMHM!!! the moment when all that yearning and anticipation EXPLODES is just *chef's kiss* >_<
and we can't forget how the banter in this was just so GOOD. there were multiple moments i was just squealing at how flustered nathan got from logan's banter. UGH. SO GOOD.
"I'm not your babysitter"
"You're just my baby"
we also can't remove angst and emotional moments from a good book. and the risk taker had them, although personally i could and would prefer more angst, emotions were flowing, and there was cleverly written angst commonly found in MM romances too. afterwards, we find acceptance, support and love. i just love when LOVE WINS. ps. not mad about the found family trope in this too, so many supportive moments and i love their bond. i'll have to pick up book 1 and 2 now.
i'm so grateful to the author, stephanie alves, and love notes pr for trusting me, and giving me the opportunity to read the risk taker early. <3
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Risk Taker by Stephanie Alve is the third book in the Colton U Playbook series. This is my first time reading this author, and I have to say I loved every second of it. It felt like a warm hug.
I loved Nathan and Logan so much, specifically Logan. He was my favorite. The book did a really good job balancing story and romance. Nathan had a lot on his shoulders and a lot to prove, and it felt like he was living for everyone else except himself. When Logan came into his life, it felt like a breath of fresh air. Logan brought Nathan back to Nathan.
Logan, on the other hand, went through so much in his life and still maintained a positive attitude, which was very endearing to see. Logan was the definition of sunshine. That man literally doesn’t know how to get upset. He’s always up for a good time. Though at times it can be seen as a facade, and that’s where Nathan comes in and fulfills that part of Logan. It was grumpy sunshine galore, which is one of my favorite tropes. Mix that with hockey and you’ve got yourself a very good time.
I loved the “my goalies” scenes so much. “Nobody touches my goalies.” The smut was 10/10. It was so well written. Also, the found family trope always hits. I loved all the possessiveness Nathan and Logan had for each other. They get so jealous even when somebody touches the other. Their heart-to-hearts and them just being each other’s safe place were everything. I loved Nathan’s character development at the end of the book, where he chose himself and his love for Logan. They balance each other out so much.
I hope to see more MM from this author.
Thank you, Loves Notes PR and Stephanie Alves for the ARC!
I loved Nathan and Logan so much, specifically Logan. He was my favorite. The book did a really good job balancing story and romance. Nathan had a lot on his shoulders and a lot to prove, and it felt like he was living for everyone else except himself. When Logan came into his life, it felt like a breath of fresh air. Logan brought Nathan back to Nathan.
Logan, on the other hand, went through so much in his life and still maintained a positive attitude, which was very endearing to see. Logan was the definition of sunshine. That man literally doesn’t know how to get upset. He’s always up for a good time. Though at times it can be seen as a facade, and that’s where Nathan comes in and fulfills that part of Logan. It was grumpy sunshine galore, which is one of my favorite tropes. Mix that with hockey and you’ve got yourself a very good time.
I loved the “my goalies” scenes so much. “Nobody touches my goalies.” The smut was 10/10. It was so well written. Also, the found family trope always hits. I loved all the possessiveness Nathan and Logan had for each other. They get so jealous even when somebody touches the other. Their heart-to-hearts and them just being each other’s safe place were everything. I loved Nathan’s character development at the end of the book, where he chose himself and his love for Logan. They balance each other out so much.
I hope to see more MM from this author.
Thank you, Loves Notes PR and Stephanie Alves for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
GUYSSS I finished reading The Risk Taker by Stephanie Alves and I’m still not over it.
I read this ARC in literally a day, which already says everything. Since I haven’t read a book in a day in a lil bit. I’ve been so excited for this release ever since it was announced, and getting to read it early honestly made me so happy.🤭
This was my first time reading anything by Stephanie Alves. I had such a good time with this book. Logan and Nathan?? I loved them both so much. Logan was definitely my favourite, but Nathan was such a cutie and his family was so adorable and supportive. Their chemistry felt so natural, and the banter between them (AND the friend group) made everything feel fun and alive.
Also Cole!??😏😏
I NEED to talk about the playlist because the second I saw Dirty Little Secrets by The All-American Rejects I was like… yeah this is my vibe. I love that song and it instantly gave the whole story this 2000s energy. In my head I was literally picturing everything like it was set in the 2000s and it just made the experience even better.
There were a couple moments where I was a bit eh (I think maybe a lil on the spice) but nothing that took away from how much I enjoyed it overall. I had fun, I was invested, and I flew through it.
I’m usually really harsh with ratings, but this is a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me. I genuinely loved this ARC and I’m so grateful I got to read it early, especially with the release coming up on April 10!
Thank you @lovenotes.pr and @stephanie.alves_author 💗🍀
I read this ARC in literally a day, which already says everything. Since I haven’t read a book in a day in a lil bit. I’ve been so excited for this release ever since it was announced, and getting to read it early honestly made me so happy.🤭
This was my first time reading anything by Stephanie Alves. I had such a good time with this book. Logan and Nathan?? I loved them both so much. Logan was definitely my favourite, but Nathan was such a cutie and his family was so adorable and supportive. Their chemistry felt so natural, and the banter between them (AND the friend group) made everything feel fun and alive.
Also Cole!??😏😏
I NEED to talk about the playlist because the second I saw Dirty Little Secrets by The All-American Rejects I was like… yeah this is my vibe. I love that song and it instantly gave the whole story this 2000s energy. In my head I was literally picturing everything like it was set in the 2000s and it just made the experience even better.
There were a couple moments where I was a bit eh (I think maybe a lil on the spice) but nothing that took away from how much I enjoyed it overall. I had fun, I was invested, and I flew through it.
I’m usually really harsh with ratings, but this is a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me. I genuinely loved this ARC and I’m so grateful I got to read it early, especially with the release coming up on April 10!
Thank you @lovenotes.pr and @stephanie.alves_author 💗🍀
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this book completely blind. I haven't read the first two books in the series or anything by Stephanie Alves but I can definitely say I will be reading more from her in the future.
This book has some of the best banter I've ever read. It was fun and flirty but also had those more serious moments that really made these characters feel real and made you route for them.
Nathan's journey throughout the book was so well written. You could really feel his struggle with trying to decide what he wanted and, god I just wanted to give the guy a hug. And Logan had so much depth that I hadn't expected (again haven't read the previous two books so wasn't familiar with these characters before reading) but it just made me love him even more.
I really felt for both of them throughout. Nathan with both the external and internal pressure he's under. And Logan with his having to decide between being with the guy he wants and not wanting to be loved in secret. The light moments balanced out perfectly with the heavier ones, making for a read that would have you laughing one minutes and tearing up the next.
Oh, and the spice? I was BLUSHING! My goodness, those boys know how to turn up the heat.
This book is great for anyone who likes teammates to lovers, broody goalies and golden retriever players, sneaking around and endless banter.
I will 1000% being reading the rest in this series and am excited to see what's in store next based on the little teasers we got in this one!
This book has some of the best banter I've ever read. It was fun and flirty but also had those more serious moments that really made these characters feel real and made you route for them.
Nathan's journey throughout the book was so well written. You could really feel his struggle with trying to decide what he wanted and, god I just wanted to give the guy a hug. And Logan had so much depth that I hadn't expected (again haven't read the previous two books so wasn't familiar with these characters before reading) but it just made me love him even more.
I really felt for both of them throughout. Nathan with both the external and internal pressure he's under. And Logan with his having to decide between being with the guy he wants and not wanting to be loved in secret. The light moments balanced out perfectly with the heavier ones, making for a read that would have you laughing one minutes and tearing up the next.
Oh, and the spice? I was BLUSHING! My goodness, those boys know how to turn up the heat.
This book is great for anyone who likes teammates to lovers, broody goalies and golden retriever players, sneaking around and endless banter.
I will 1000% being reading the rest in this series and am excited to see what's in store next based on the little teasers we got in this one!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you Love Notes PR and Stephanie Alves for an e-ARC of The Risk Taker in exchange for my review 😊 I originally got hooked on Stephanie's writing back when the Campus Games series came out. Which is WHY I loved this so much:
“Aiden Pierce?” he asks, nodding toward the poster on the wall.
My brows dip. “You know who he is?”
Logan scoffs. “Hell yeah. Guy’s a legend,” he says, his eyes flicking back to me. “Didn’t peg you for a basketball guy.”
AHHHH I LOVED the Aiden mention. Spin the Bottle is my favorite book written by Stephanie.
Also, I am STILL screaming about that ONE scene in chapter 29 with a certain Viper 👀🥵🔥 you guys don't understand. I have been *impatiently* waiting for this moment since The Rule Breaker. Their time has finally come! I can not WAIT for the next book!!!!
Okay now onto Nathan and Logan. Simply put: I LOVED them. ✨ The broody hockey player and the golden retriever hockey player. All the flirty banter?! I was EATING. IT. UP. every time Logan would tease Nathan to get a reaction out of him:
"Figured someone should keep an eye on you.”
My grin widens. “Is that why you’ve been staring all night?”
It was constant and it was incredibly adorable to see Nathan blush.
I'll always love a book that features a queer awakening. The moment when they finally come out to their friends and families will ALWAYS make me tear up. So of course I was crying my eyes out by the end. 😭 I love love 💕
Tropes:
×college hockey
×broody x golden retriever
×roommates
×teasing banter
×sneaking around
“Aiden Pierce?” he asks, nodding toward the poster on the wall.
My brows dip. “You know who he is?”
Logan scoffs. “Hell yeah. Guy’s a legend,” he says, his eyes flicking back to me. “Didn’t peg you for a basketball guy.”
AHHHH I LOVED the Aiden mention. Spin the Bottle is my favorite book written by Stephanie.
Also, I am STILL screaming about that ONE scene in chapter 29 with a certain Viper 👀🥵🔥 you guys don't understand. I have been *impatiently* waiting for this moment since The Rule Breaker. Their time has finally come! I can not WAIT for the next book!!!!
Okay now onto Nathan and Logan. Simply put: I LOVED them. ✨ The broody hockey player and the golden retriever hockey player. All the flirty banter?! I was EATING. IT. UP. every time Logan would tease Nathan to get a reaction out of him:
"Figured someone should keep an eye on you.”
My grin widens. “Is that why you’ve been staring all night?”
It was constant and it was incredibly adorable to see Nathan blush.
I'll always love a book that features a queer awakening. The moment when they finally come out to their friends and families will ALWAYS make me tear up. So of course I was crying my eyes out by the end. 😭 I love love 💕
Tropes:
×college hockey
×broody x golden retriever
×roommates
×teasing banter
×sneaking around
March 27, 2026
ARC review!
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!
My first MM read and I LOVED IT OMG!
Nathan and Logan are made to be together. The building of their relationship throughout the other books (with the little Easter Eggs) and now in the book AAAH! Screaming, crying, dying!
I loved the scene when Logan give lessons to Nathan about how to flirt, the tension was there and kept building after that.
What I loved the most was the glances sneaking to each other, the fact that Logan said every once in a while of Nathan was okay, them being there for each other. But what I loved most of all is when Logan opened up to Nathan and Nathan taking action and invited Logan to his house for Christmas! MY HEART, MY BABIES ❤️🩹
Also can we talk about the scene outside the bar!!! Four chapters of them being apart broke me but when Nathan GRABBED Logan to kiss him when he wanted to do just that?! I SEE YOU 😏🥵
Also the coming out scene in the locker room! Chef kiss! And the coming out scene in his dad’s office not only about Logan but also about him not loving hockey and he wants to draw instead! Loved that as well!!
I’m hyping the book up because :
1- It was amazing! For a first MM romance it was well described, well written and it was like any romance!
2- The love they have for each other is insane! Nathan and Logan are my favorite couple no doubt
3- Just every scene that was build I can’t it was so cute 🫠🤭
5 ⭐️
4 🌶️
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!
My first MM read and I LOVED IT OMG!
Nathan and Logan are made to be together. The building of their relationship throughout the other books (with the little Easter Eggs) and now in the book AAAH! Screaming, crying, dying!
I loved the scene when Logan give lessons to Nathan about how to flirt, the tension was there and kept building after that.
What I loved the most was the glances sneaking to each other, the fact that Logan said every once in a while of Nathan was okay, them being there for each other. But what I loved most of all is when Logan opened up to Nathan and Nathan taking action and invited Logan to his house for Christmas! MY HEART, MY BABIES ❤️🩹
Also can we talk about the scene outside the bar!!! Four chapters of them being apart broke me but when Nathan GRABBED Logan to kiss him when he wanted to do just that?! I SEE YOU 😏🥵
Also the coming out scene in the locker room! Chef kiss! And the coming out scene in his dad’s office not only about Logan but also about him not loving hockey and he wants to draw instead! Loved that as well!!
I’m hyping the book up because :
1- It was amazing! For a first MM romance it was well described, well written and it was like any romance!
2- The love they have for each other is insane! Nathan and Logan are my favorite couple no doubt
3- Just every scene that was build I can’t it was so cute 🫠🤭
5 ⭐️
4 🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my freaking god. I have so much to say about this book.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED!! The crumbs were got for Aurora and Coles book OMG IM SO EXCITED, especially when he just picked her up at carried her away at the end. The little hint about Aiden from Spin The Bottle- I loved. Poor coach Hayes is never catching a break😂 the man is still traumatized from the hot tube between Izzy and Ryan and now, Austin is making the trauma worse with his comments, he’s even more traumatized when finding his son lying naked in bed with Logan. I absolutely loved Logan and Nathen’s story so much! Logan definitely fell harder and I love that he was able to turn soft and open up especially to Nathen. I loved seeing Nathen’s growth in general but also his internal struggles too. He admitted Hockey wasn’t something he wants to do anymore. He went after what he really wanted. Seeing both these two men being so vulnerable about their feeling and when they need/want really got to my heart. Logan’s back story is so sad but I’m glad he had such good support now. And on top of such an emotional story THE SPICE, GODDAMN. These two are one hot couple for sure and to mention THEY SWITCHED. It’s not just a spice thing but also for Logan to show Nathen he trust him. Their love is just *chefs kiss* I love the team’s reactions to Logan and Nathen’s relationship. Also I loved Izzy and Nathen’s parents so much. They are so in love and are amazing parents. I loved this book and I’m so excited for book 4!!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED!! The crumbs were got for Aurora and Coles book OMG IM SO EXCITED, especially when he just picked her up at carried her away at the end. The little hint about Aiden from Spin The Bottle- I loved. Poor coach Hayes is never catching a break😂 the man is still traumatized from the hot tube between Izzy and Ryan and now, Austin is making the trauma worse with his comments, he’s even more traumatized when finding his son lying naked in bed with Logan. I absolutely loved Logan and Nathen’s story so much! Logan definitely fell harder and I love that he was able to turn soft and open up especially to Nathen. I loved seeing Nathen’s growth in general but also his internal struggles too. He admitted Hockey wasn’t something he wants to do anymore. He went after what he really wanted. Seeing both these two men being so vulnerable about their feeling and when they need/want really got to my heart. Logan’s back story is so sad but I’m glad he had such good support now. And on top of such an emotional story THE SPICE, GODDAMN. These two are one hot couple for sure and to mention THEY SWITCHED. It’s not just a spice thing but also for Logan to show Nathen he trust him. Their love is just *chefs kiss* I love the team’s reactions to Logan and Nathen’s relationship. Also I loved Izzy and Nathen’s parents so much. They are so in love and are amazing parents. I loved this book and I’m so excited for book 4!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2026
I don’t know how to even start this review, cause as always I’m crying while writing a review.
Logan and Nathan, I’ve been excited for their book since Stephanie announced it, and getting ARC meant soo much to me, but I didn’t wanna finish it this early in.
I have no words to describe how much I enjoyed, loved, laughed, cried and had fun with these two and their world, but ahhh god do I love them soo much it physically hurts.
Logan you will always be loved by me and to think you thought you weren’t deserving of love is just beyond me, I loved how he wasn’t ashamed to be who he was, he was a lot but at the end of the day he was Logan I guess.
Oh Nathan, I wish I could give him a hug, cause ahggggg, I love him so much, I’m done for at this point. Seeing him accept who he truly was even tho it was hard for him, choosing his happiness over everything else he thought was expected of him, and I’m soo happy he has the family he has cause, his dad, mom and sister I love their relationship soo much and I adore all of em.
And to Logan who never had the family he deserves, I’m happy he found it in the place he loved most, his friends who at the end became his family, and his baby Nathan who become both his lover hubby and his forever.
Im soo proud of them both, and ahgghh feels soo surreal writing this cause I swear I was just reading about them secs ago, but all that aside, I love them both soo much.
And I with this book had at least 30 more extra chapters…
Logan and Nathan, I’ve been excited for their book since Stephanie announced it, and getting ARC meant soo much to me, but I didn’t wanna finish it this early in.
I have no words to describe how much I enjoyed, loved, laughed, cried and had fun with these two and their world, but ahhh god do I love them soo much it physically hurts.
Logan you will always be loved by me and to think you thought you weren’t deserving of love is just beyond me, I loved how he wasn’t ashamed to be who he was, he was a lot but at the end of the day he was Logan I guess.
Oh Nathan, I wish I could give him a hug, cause ahggggg, I love him so much, I’m done for at this point. Seeing him accept who he truly was even tho it was hard for him, choosing his happiness over everything else he thought was expected of him, and I’m soo happy he has the family he has cause, his dad, mom and sister I love their relationship soo much and I adore all of em.
And to Logan who never had the family he deserves, I’m happy he found it in the place he loved most, his friends who at the end became his family, and his baby Nathan who become both his lover hubby and his forever.
Im soo proud of them both, and ahgghh feels soo surreal writing this cause I swear I was just reading about them secs ago, but all that aside, I love them both soo much.
And I with this book had at least 30 more extra chapters…
Review of advance copy received from Author
The quiet goalie and the loud player get under each other’s skin, push and pull until fire ignites.
Nathan is focused, patient and controlled. He has lived his entire life trying to meet everyone’s expectations, hiding his own wants and desires.
Logan is the reckless, laidback player who flirts with everyone and parties like there is no tomorrow. Underneath it all, hides and insecure person, someone who needs to be loved and chosen first.
When they decide to explore their chemistry and Nathan’s sexuality, the connection builds and feelings grow.
Nathan brings stability and a safe place for Logan and Logan brings out the playful, relaxed side of Nathan.
They learn how to be vulnerable, open and honest with each other and themselves, how to balance their feelings and how to put each other’s first.
The Risk Taker is a swoon-worthy read, with sizzling chemistry, spicy scenes, locker-room banter and quiet vulnerability.
Learning how to open up, let people in and see all of your fears and insecurities can be scary, but worthwhile for the right person.
If you love hockey romances, with opposites attract tropes and vulnerable characters, this book will blow your mind.
Thank you for the ARC.
Nathan is focused, patient and controlled. He has lived his entire life trying to meet everyone’s expectations, hiding his own wants and desires.
Logan is the reckless, laidback player who flirts with everyone and parties like there is no tomorrow. Underneath it all, hides and insecure person, someone who needs to be loved and chosen first.
When they decide to explore their chemistry and Nathan’s sexuality, the connection builds and feelings grow.
Nathan brings stability and a safe place for Logan and Logan brings out the playful, relaxed side of Nathan.
They learn how to be vulnerable, open and honest with each other and themselves, how to balance their feelings and how to put each other’s first.
The Risk Taker is a swoon-worthy read, with sizzling chemistry, spicy scenes, locker-room banter and quiet vulnerability.
Learning how to open up, let people in and see all of your fears and insecurities can be scary, but worthwhile for the right person.
If you love hockey romances, with opposites attract tropes and vulnerable characters, this book will blow your mind.
Thank you for the ARC.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to LoveNotesPR for the ARC 📚
I am feral for the men in the Colton U series and these 2 are no different! I love Stephanie's writing, the plot, the spice and the emotional growth and healing that has happened in this series so far.
🏒 MM hockey romance
😜 Coach's son
🫶 Great friend group
🥰 Secret hook ups
I adored Logan and Nathan's story ⭐️
Bisexual and confident on the ice and in bed Logan plays hockey on the same team and the coach's son Nathan. Nathan is quiet, reserved and known as the babysitter of the team. Nobody knows much about him and certainly not about his love life.
Stolen glances and moments alone allow the pair to get closer in the most delicious way 🥰
The spice be spicing! 🔥
Nathan isnt quite ready to tell the world yet and despite initially believing he was ok with this, strong feelings show themselves until Logan cant bear to keep them a secret anymore.
Can Nathan Risk it all for Logan?
The only tiny thing I would say is that I would have liked a chapter maybe on them coming out the their hockey fans. We see family friends and teammates but I would have liked a wee piece of the fans lapping up their relationship too. I really loved this read and series to date 📚
Must read!
I am feral for the men in the Colton U series and these 2 are no different! I love Stephanie's writing, the plot, the spice and the emotional growth and healing that has happened in this series so far.
🏒 MM hockey romance
😜 Coach's son
🫶 Great friend group
🥰 Secret hook ups
I adored Logan and Nathan's story ⭐️
Bisexual and confident on the ice and in bed Logan plays hockey on the same team and the coach's son Nathan. Nathan is quiet, reserved and known as the babysitter of the team. Nobody knows much about him and certainly not about his love life.
Stolen glances and moments alone allow the pair to get closer in the most delicious way 🥰
The spice be spicing! 🔥
Nathan isnt quite ready to tell the world yet and despite initially believing he was ok with this, strong feelings show themselves until Logan cant bear to keep them a secret anymore.
Can Nathan Risk it all for Logan?
The only tiny thing I would say is that I would have liked a chapter maybe on them coming out the their hockey fans. We see family friends and teammates but I would have liked a wee piece of the fans lapping up their relationship too. I really loved this read and series to date 📚
Must read!
March 28, 2026
OH MY GOSH!!! I had such high hopes for this book, and they were somehow exceeded!! Logan Gray has my heart and deserves nothing but happiness in every lifetime. This book shows so much growth, emotion, and communication between the two main characters. Beautifully written, hilarious banter literally had me giggling while reading. The communication and trust between the two main characters is so fun to watch grow from start to finish.
- College hockey MM romance
- Broody coaches son & golden retriever teammate
- Roomates
- Slow burn
- BANTER
- Bi main character and queer awakening for the other main character.
- Found family <3
Favorite quotes:
“He’s hot—infuriating, uptight, stick permanently up his ass—but still, hot.”
“Next time, if you want to see my dick, just say that.”
“Maybe I don’t want to flirt with any girls.”
“Burnt food and a side of nipples. Good morning to me.”
“But just so you know…” I lean in, a smirk curling onto my lips. My eyes flick down to his mouth—those stupidly pretty lips—then back up. “I’m gonna make it really fucking hard.”
“Jesus, goalies really do have the best asses”
- College hockey MM romance
- Broody coaches son & golden retriever teammate
- Roomates
- Slow burn
- BANTER
- Bi main character and queer awakening for the other main character.
- Found family <3
Favorite quotes:
“He’s hot—infuriating, uptight, stick permanently up his ass—but still, hot.”
“Next time, if you want to see my dick, just say that.”
“Maybe I don’t want to flirt with any girls.”
“Burnt food and a side of nipples. Good morning to me.”
“But just so you know…” I lean in, a smirk curling onto my lips. My eyes flick down to his mouth—those stupidly pretty lips—then back up. “I’m gonna make it really fucking hard.”
“Jesus, goalies really do have the best asses”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t even know where to start with this book—I loved it so much that my brain is blank trying to explain why.
The Risk Taker completely pulled me in from the beginning, and I got attached to the characters much faster than I expected. Everything, from the chemistry to the emotional moments, just worked.
Logan and Nathan completely stole my heart. From the very beginning, their chemistry was undeniable. Logan is confident, teasing, and knows exactly what he wants, but he’s also incredibly sweet. Nathan, on the other hand, is trying to figure things out (his career path and his sexuality) and watching his journey felt very real. They complemented each other so well.
One moment that really stayed with me was when Logan said, “Fuck. I just wanted someone who’d choose me. For fucking once in my life, I want someone who chooses me.” It captured so much of his vulnerability and made everything feel even more real and emotional. I’d even say I shed a tear. 🫣
Thank you so much to Stephanie Alves and LoveNotes PR for this ARC! I loved it so much and can’t wait for everyone to experience Logan and Nathan.
Also… I need Cole and Aurora’s book like YESTERDAY!!! 😭
The Risk Taker completely pulled me in from the beginning, and I got attached to the characters much faster than I expected. Everything, from the chemistry to the emotional moments, just worked.
Logan and Nathan completely stole my heart. From the very beginning, their chemistry was undeniable. Logan is confident, teasing, and knows exactly what he wants, but he’s also incredibly sweet. Nathan, on the other hand, is trying to figure things out (his career path and his sexuality) and watching his journey felt very real. They complemented each other so well.
One moment that really stayed with me was when Logan said, “Fuck. I just wanted someone who’d choose me. For fucking once in my life, I want someone who chooses me.” It captured so much of his vulnerability and made everything feel even more real and emotional. I’d even say I shed a tear. 🫣
Thank you so much to Stephanie Alves and LoveNotes PR for this ARC! I loved it so much and can’t wait for everyone to experience Logan and Nathan.
Also… I need Cole and Aurora’s book like YESTERDAY!!! 😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW 🚨🏒
The Risk Taker by Stephanie Alves was SUCH a good read.
MM hockey romance, teammates, forced proximity, a little “why am I feeling like this??” crisis… yeah I was hooked.
Logan is your golden retriever, openly bi, easygoing on the outside—but his backstory?? Being on his own at 16/17 and basically shutting himself off from feeling anything for years actually broke my heart a bit.
And Nathan… coach’s son, super disciplined, very structured life, only ever been with women and then Logan comes along and suddenly he’s irritated for reasons he does NOT understand. The internal conflict??? So good.
The tension between them builds so nicely throughout the book. The looks, the banter, the frustration… and then the shift into something more?? The sneaking around and honest conversations had me fully invested.
It’s definitely got spice (and it delivers 👀) but I loved that there was real emotional depth too. Watching Logan start to feel again and Nathan figure himself out felt really natural and satisfying.
Logan and Nathan truly deserved each other 🥺
Such a solid read!! I’m excited to see more from Stephanie Alves. GIVE ME AURORA AND COLE!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Risk Taker by Stephanie Alves was SUCH a good read.
MM hockey romance, teammates, forced proximity, a little “why am I feeling like this??” crisis… yeah I was hooked.
Logan is your golden retriever, openly bi, easygoing on the outside—but his backstory?? Being on his own at 16/17 and basically shutting himself off from feeling anything for years actually broke my heart a bit.
And Nathan… coach’s son, super disciplined, very structured life, only ever been with women and then Logan comes along and suddenly he’s irritated for reasons he does NOT understand. The internal conflict??? So good.
The tension between them builds so nicely throughout the book. The looks, the banter, the frustration… and then the shift into something more?? The sneaking around and honest conversations had me fully invested.
It’s definitely got spice (and it delivers 👀) but I loved that there was real emotional depth too. Watching Logan start to feel again and Nathan figure himself out felt really natural and satisfying.
Logan and Nathan truly deserved each other 🥺
Such a solid read!! I’m excited to see more from Stephanie Alves. GIVE ME AURORA AND COLE!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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