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Tapped!: A fun, heartwarming mm contemporary romance
An NHL captain walks into a gay bar...
Skyler Shaw has the captain's C, a killer wrist shot, and the face of a franchise.
He's also straight. Completely, undeniably straight.
So why can't he stop thinking about the barback he met a month ago?
Jackson "Jacks" Mills was weeks from the NFL draft when his knee exploded and took his future with it. Now he's slinging drinks at Tampa's favorite gay sports bar, rebuilding a life he never planned. He's got his found family, his routine, and absolutely no business crushing on a straight hockey player who keeps showing up.
Because that's all this is. Friendship.
Just two guys who text constantly.
Who light up when the other walks in. Who keep finding excuses to stand too close and stare too long.
Friendship.
Sure, Skyler's never had a friend who makes his heart race. And maybe Jacks has never wanted to kiss a "friend" so badly it keeps him up at night.
But it doesn't mean anything.
...Right?
Tapped! is a slow-burn MM romance featuring an oblivious hockey bro discovering his "normal friend feelings" aren't so normal, a former athlete learning that needing help isn't weakness, and enough banter to fill a penalty box. Expect found family chaos, a glitter-obsessed bartender, teammates who see everything, and two idiots who are the last to know.
Can be read as a standalone but is better in series order. HEA guaranteed.
Skyler Shaw has the captain's C, a killer wrist shot, and the face of a franchise.
He's also straight. Completely, undeniably straight.
So why can't he stop thinking about the barback he met a month ago?
Jackson "Jacks" Mills was weeks from the NFL draft when his knee exploded and took his future with it. Now he's slinging drinks at Tampa's favorite gay sports bar, rebuilding a life he never planned. He's got his found family, his routine, and absolutely no business crushing on a straight hockey player who keeps showing up.
Because that's all this is. Friendship.
Just two guys who text constantly.
Who light up when the other walks in. Who keep finding excuses to stand too close and stare too long.
Friendship.
Sure, Skyler's never had a friend who makes his heart race. And maybe Jacks has never wanted to kiss a "friend" so badly it keeps him up at night.
But it doesn't mean anything.
...Right?
Tapped! is a slow-burn MM romance featuring an oblivious hockey bro discovering his "normal friend feelings" aren't so normal, a former athlete learning that needing help isn't weakness, and enough banter to fill a penalty box. Expect found family chaos, a glitter-obsessed bartender, teammates who see everything, and two idiots who are the last to know.
Can be read as a standalone but is better in series order. HEA guaranteed.
584 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2026
About the author
Casey Morales
53 books453 followersCasey Morales is an LGBT storyteller and the author of multiple bestselling MM romance novels. Born in the Southern United States, Casey is an avid tennis player, aspiring chef, dog lover, and ravenous consumer of gummy bears.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 6, 2026
There was just too much that bothered me about this book:
• the humor. It’s a very childish/prankish kind of humor and just not for me.
• the inconsistency or plotholes. Like at the beginning Skyler and Jacks write each other on instagram but at the end suddenly Jacks never had a private instagram? Or Murphy was supposed to be the best friend as stated very early on but just kind of disappears or is replaced by Tyler and Erik. Or the gay panicking suddenly never happening. I could go on but you get the gist.
• why would you compare how an eight year old eats a popsicle to giving head?!? That’s so inappropriate.
• the humor. It’s a very childish/prankish kind of humor and just not for me.
• the inconsistency or plotholes. Like at the beginning Skyler and Jacks write each other on instagram but at the end suddenly Jacks never had a private instagram? Or Murphy was supposed to be the best friend as stated very early on but just kind of disappears or is replaced by Tyler and Erik. Or the gay panicking suddenly never happening. I could go on but you get the gist.
• why would you compare how an eight year old eats a popsicle to giving head?!? That’s so inappropriate.
May 9, 2026
First I want to say if I could give this book more than 5 stars I would.
Skyler is one of those people who somehow became an NHL captain while still acting like emotions are a group project he forgot was due. The man can lead a team, handle pressure, and probably survive a playoff overtime, but ask him about feelings? Suddenly he’s buffering like bad Wi-Fi.
What makes Skyler so lovable is that underneath all the captain seriousness, he’s basically just a confused golden retriever trying very hard not to panic over Jackson. You can practically hear the internal screaming every time he sends a text. Half the romance in this book is Skyler staring at his phone like it personally betrayed him. But to his credit, he keeps trying. Quietly. Awkwardly. Heroically. The emotional support texting in this story deserves its own award category.
And then there’s Jackson—sweet, lovable, former football player Jackson—working at Barbacks while somehow surviving being surrounded by chaos 24/7. He’s shy, cautious, and fully convinced Skyler is straight, which means every interaction has him mentally preparing for disaster while the rest of us are screaming, “HE LIKES YOU, YOU BEAUTIFUL IDIOT.”
Honestly, Jackson being a huge TBL fan but never having gone to a game before is both adorable and offensive. Somebody needed to fix that immediately. The second he finally gets hockey-fan happiness, I was more emotional than I’d like to admit.
The chemistry between Skyler and Jackson works so well because neither of them has a clue what they’re doing emotionally. It’s basically two grown men texting each other like:
“Hey.”
“Hey.”
“What’s up?”
“Nothing.”
Meanwhile they’re both internally planning a wedding.
The Barbacks crew absolutely steals scenes left and right. Their found-family energy is chaotic perfection, and Benji? Benji deserves his own book immediately. No discussion. No debate. Just hand him the microphone and let him terrorize everyone for 300 pages. I would read it in one sitting.
Skyler’s teammates are equally nosy, which honestly feels medically required for hockey teammates in romance books. These men do not understand boundaries, privacy, or minding their own business, and thank God for that because it makes everything ten times funnier.
The hockey side of the story is done really well too. The games, locker room dynamics, and team atmosphere all feel authentic without drowning out the romance. And somehow the author managed to make endless texting between two men not only believable, but ridiculously entertaining.
Overall, this story is packed with laughs, friendship, awkward pining, self-acceptance, found family, emotional panic, and love. You’ll smile through the whole thing while also wanting to shake both main characters and yell, “JUST KISS ALREADY.
I received this ARC from BookFunnel and voluntarily leaving my review
Monica
Skyler is one of those people who somehow became an NHL captain while still acting like emotions are a group project he forgot was due. The man can lead a team, handle pressure, and probably survive a playoff overtime, but ask him about feelings? Suddenly he’s buffering like bad Wi-Fi.
What makes Skyler so lovable is that underneath all the captain seriousness, he’s basically just a confused golden retriever trying very hard not to panic over Jackson. You can practically hear the internal screaming every time he sends a text. Half the romance in this book is Skyler staring at his phone like it personally betrayed him. But to his credit, he keeps trying. Quietly. Awkwardly. Heroically. The emotional support texting in this story deserves its own award category.
And then there’s Jackson—sweet, lovable, former football player Jackson—working at Barbacks while somehow surviving being surrounded by chaos 24/7. He’s shy, cautious, and fully convinced Skyler is straight, which means every interaction has him mentally preparing for disaster while the rest of us are screaming, “HE LIKES YOU, YOU BEAUTIFUL IDIOT.”
Honestly, Jackson being a huge TBL fan but never having gone to a game before is both adorable and offensive. Somebody needed to fix that immediately. The second he finally gets hockey-fan happiness, I was more emotional than I’d like to admit.
The chemistry between Skyler and Jackson works so well because neither of them has a clue what they’re doing emotionally. It’s basically two grown men texting each other like:
“Hey.”
“Hey.”
“What’s up?”
“Nothing.”
Meanwhile they’re both internally planning a wedding.
The Barbacks crew absolutely steals scenes left and right. Their found-family energy is chaotic perfection, and Benji? Benji deserves his own book immediately. No discussion. No debate. Just hand him the microphone and let him terrorize everyone for 300 pages. I would read it in one sitting.
Skyler’s teammates are equally nosy, which honestly feels medically required for hockey teammates in romance books. These men do not understand boundaries, privacy, or minding their own business, and thank God for that because it makes everything ten times funnier.
The hockey side of the story is done really well too. The games, locker room dynamics, and team atmosphere all feel authentic without drowning out the romance. And somehow the author managed to make endless texting between two men not only believable, but ridiculously entertaining.
Overall, this story is packed with laughs, friendship, awkward pining, self-acceptance, found family, emotional panic, and love. You’ll smile through the whole thing while also wanting to shake both main characters and yell, “JUST KISS ALREADY.
I received this ARC from BookFunnel and voluntarily leaving my review
Monica
May 12, 2026
We met Jacks in book 1, he's the barback for Finn. He is shy, introverted to newcomers but a joy to be around. Skyler Shaw is the Team Captain for Tampa's hockey team. They had interactions in book 1 that was more Skyler "fangirling" over Jacks' college football career that ended before it started. In this book, they become friends who can't seem to gett enough of each other, platonically. There's a pull that Skyler is afraid to recognize until finally he can't. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2026
No spoilers* The first 60% was a great read with a couple plot inconsistencies. Then it just turned into a super sappy, rushed and unbelievable sequence of events. And more plot inconsistencies. Did I like the characters, yes. But it just felt like a different author wrote the second half, or was rushed to finish. Spice level 2.5/5. Will continue the series and hope it is more like the first book and first half of this book.
June 15, 2026
Book 2 of series. In Book 1, side character Rod was Venezuelan and spoke perfect English. In Book 2, Rod is Brazilian and his syntax is weird. He tends to omit pronouns, which is typical of Spanish, not Portuguese. Because he doesn't speak Portuguese. Because he's from Venezuela.
May 17, 2026
3.0 Stars
This author is not for me. There is no fault with the writing, there was just not much story….
This author is not for me. There is no fault with the writing, there was just not much story….
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book #2 in Casey's "Barbacks" series. It can be read stand-alone, but to get the full impact you need to read the series in order. MC's are Jacks (short for Jackson), former FSU linebacker who gave up football after a devestating injury and is now lead barback at a gay sports bar in Tampa, along with Skyler, the captain of the Tampa Bay Lightening NHL team. This series is "low angst" rom-com material, and guaranteed to make you laugh from Chapter 1.
Four open-minded hockey players from the Lightning decide to pay a surprise visit to the new gay sports bar that has quickly become the go-to venue for Lightning hockey fans. Skyler, the team captain, and Jacks, the curly-haired barback, develop some instant chemistry during the encounter. What starts out as a friendship between these two jocks slowly but surely evolves into something much deeper emotionally, and then eventually physically. Turns out that Skyler has been privately jonesing for Jacks for awhile, including having one of Jacks' FSU football jerseys professionally framed over his living room couch. So when the fireworks start with Skyler making the first move, it's totally believable. Jacks gets all my love & respect for the way he nurtures Skyler through Skyler's coming-out process. There are plenty of issues to be dealt with that will keep you turning the pages, and eventually we get their HEA in the Epilogue (boy, it's a really dramatic HEA too!).
IMHO there are a few missing pieces in the plotline. Jacks' framed jersey on Skyler's LR wall doesn't get any play. And Skyler's agent is not involved at all in Skyler's eventual public coming-out. Little issues like that. But overall this is a great second addition to the series. Can't wait for Benji's story to follow this one! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Four open-minded hockey players from the Lightning decide to pay a surprise visit to the new gay sports bar that has quickly become the go-to venue for Lightning hockey fans. Skyler, the team captain, and Jacks, the curly-haired barback, develop some instant chemistry during the encounter. What starts out as a friendship between these two jocks slowly but surely evolves into something much deeper emotionally, and then eventually physically. Turns out that Skyler has been privately jonesing for Jacks for awhile, including having one of Jacks' FSU football jerseys professionally framed over his living room couch. So when the fireworks start with Skyler making the first move, it's totally believable. Jacks gets all my love & respect for the way he nurtures Skyler through Skyler's coming-out process. There are plenty of issues to be dealt with that will keep you turning the pages, and eventually we get their HEA in the Epilogue (boy, it's a really dramatic HEA too!).
IMHO there are a few missing pieces in the plotline. Jacks' framed jersey on Skyler's LR wall doesn't get any play. And Skyler's agent is not involved at all in Skyler's eventual public coming-out. Little issues like that. But overall this is a great second addition to the series. Can't wait for Benji's story to follow this one! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 11, 2026
As a senior at FSU Jackson Armstrong was described as a generational talent linebacker. He had everything going for him and his life laid out and then two weeks before the NFL Draft he blew up his knee at practice and just like that his career was over before it ever started and he would never play football again. Now he was working at BarBacks, the new gay sports bar in Ybor. His life as a barback was hauling kegs and bussing tables and keeping the ice bins full. But he worked out, kept his body toned and looked forward to hockey nights. When the Tampa Bay Lightning were playing the crowds in the bar were wild and the owners couldn’t have been happier. One afternoon three big guys wandered into the bar, said they were on the team and heard this place was their biggest fan draw in town and they wanted to see what it was about. Skyler, Erik and Tyler were friendly to everyone, but Jacks couldn’t take his eyes off golden hair team captain Skyler Shaw. Who was undeniably straight. Six weeks later they were back with a fourth teammate. Nice to everyone, signed autographs, overtipped when they left. So Jacks couldn’t figure it out when Skyler kept coming back to the bar alone just to hang out and talk. Lots and lots of texting, every day. Then lunch at the taco stand. When Erik proposed to his girlfriend, Skylar asked him how he knew. And Erik’s answer turned Skyler’s life around, his reason for failed relationships and unhappy girlfriends, his feelings for Jacks.
Tapped is more than just an MM contemporary romance. It’s waking up from everything that has been wrong in your life to find everything that’s now so right. It’s love, no second guessing, authenticity and courage. That being Honest about who you are wasn’t just brave, it was necessary. It’s 10 but I can only give five stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tapped is more than just an MM contemporary romance. It’s waking up from everything that has been wrong in your life to find everything that’s now so right. It’s love, no second guessing, authenticity and courage. That being Honest about who you are wasn’t just brave, it was necessary. It’s 10 but I can only give five stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2026
'Tapped' (Barbacks, Book 2) (Kindle) written by Casey Morales
I thoroughly enjoyed this book (still smiling), and this series!
The MCs were so mindful of protecting each other's feelings, especially Jacks awareness of this being Skyler's first time being with a guy sexually and taking things super slow and gently with them.
Great banter, fun text messages, and mostly good communication between them, with a few expected glitches here and there.
Loved the side characters, too, from Jacks' friends and support system with his work buddies, and Sky's teammates and friends, they lucked out on the family & friends sides! Benji-the-motormouth and Eric-the-Viking were my favorite side characters, although they all were pretty great!
I really liked how they each tried to handle their own stress by keeping the communication lines with their boyfriend open (for the most part) by talking through their stress...if all else fails, grab your partner and kiss them!
Loved the creative and fun covers of the books in this series (2, so far)! Whoever created these covers did a wonderful job with the design and with the choices of the models who seemed to embody the character's personalities perfectly!
(I'd go hang out at that bar with them and their friends anytime, especially during hockey games, (go Habs!... sorry Sky, lol)
They got their message across, "Love is Love"!
🙏🏾🌈💗🪷🥰☺️🌺💞
(note: while reading this I was also listening to Carla Morrison singing 'Eres Tú' and that lovely "official video" showing two guys getting married outdoors amidst their families and friends; it's really beautiful and sweet!
I was thinking of Sky & Jacks during that!)
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
I thoroughly enjoyed this book (still smiling), and this series!
The MCs were so mindful of protecting each other's feelings, especially Jacks awareness of this being Skyler's first time being with a guy sexually and taking things super slow and gently with them.
Great banter, fun text messages, and mostly good communication between them, with a few expected glitches here and there.
Loved the side characters, too, from Jacks' friends and support system with his work buddies, and Sky's teammates and friends, they lucked out on the family & friends sides! Benji-the-motormouth and Eric-the-Viking were my favorite side characters, although they all were pretty great!
I really liked how they each tried to handle their own stress by keeping the communication lines with their boyfriend open (for the most part) by talking through their stress...if all else fails, grab your partner and kiss them!
Loved the creative and fun covers of the books in this series (2, so far)! Whoever created these covers did a wonderful job with the design and with the choices of the models who seemed to embody the character's personalities perfectly!
(I'd go hang out at that bar with them and their friends anytime, especially during hockey games, (go Habs!... sorry Sky, lol)
They got their message across, "Love is Love"!
🙏🏾🌈💗🪷🥰☺️🌺💞
(note: while reading this I was also listening to Carla Morrison singing 'Eres Tú' and that lovely "official video" showing two guys getting married outdoors amidst their families and friends; it's really beautiful and sweet!
I was thinking of Sky & Jacks during that!)
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
June 5, 2026
I’ve enjoyed all of Casey Morales’s books, but I’m really invested in these fun rom-com novels centered on Barbacks. Barbacks is a gay sports bar, a place where one can go and watch that hockey rom-com series, or whatever sports ball game is on that night, have a few drinks with friends, or a date – and not be propositioned by half-naked strangers dancing to too-loud music. It’s also devoted to the local hockey team, the Lighting Bolts.
Here, Bolts Captain Skyler strikes up a friendship with Jackson, the actual barback for Barbacks. Skyler has a framed poster (and jersey) from Jackson’s glory days playing football for Florida University. One injury in Jackson’s senior year destroyed his dream of playing pro ball. Skyler and Jackson are drawn to one another, though it takes Skyler a minute or ten to figure out that he really wants to date Jackson.
I like the slow burn, the getting to know one another via text message and random lunches. I like that it takes these guys for-freaking-ever to actually have sex. And I especially like that once Skyler figures it all out, he’s all in. It does take him awhile to get to that point, though. Jacks has some great ways of describing Sky and his teammates. According to him, Sky has “golden retriever energy,” and Murph looks “like Yosemite Sam had mated with Popeye and turned to hockey.”
The team’s full throated welcome of Jacks as Sky’s boyfriend is amazing – especially the ancient Viking ritual. Happy tears again, Morales. But, then, I always do cry at weddings…
Now, after already engineering a glitter apocalypse, I’m a little afraid to read Benji’s story in the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Here, Bolts Captain Skyler strikes up a friendship with Jackson, the actual barback for Barbacks. Skyler has a framed poster (and jersey) from Jackson’s glory days playing football for Florida University. One injury in Jackson’s senior year destroyed his dream of playing pro ball. Skyler and Jackson are drawn to one another, though it takes Skyler a minute or ten to figure out that he really wants to date Jackson.
I like the slow burn, the getting to know one another via text message and random lunches. I like that it takes these guys for-freaking-ever to actually have sex. And I especially like that once Skyler figures it all out, he’s all in. It does take him awhile to get to that point, though. Jacks has some great ways of describing Sky and his teammates. According to him, Sky has “golden retriever energy,” and Murph looks “like Yosemite Sam had mated with Popeye and turned to hockey.”
The team’s full throated welcome of Jacks as Sky’s boyfriend is amazing – especially the ancient Viking ritual. Happy tears again, Morales. But, then, I always do cry at weddings…
Now, after already engineering a glitter apocalypse, I’m a little afraid to read Benji’s story in the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2026
Tapped! Barbacks Book 2 by Casey Morales is fantastic. He has a way of creating a world that you want to be a part of. It draws you in and you never want to let go :) I loved Jacks and Skyler.
"...We keep being happy, we keep being honest, and we keep being us...We keep proving that love stories don't have to be complicated or angsty or filled with obstacles to be extraordinary."
All your favorite characters from book one are still featured including Finn, Chase, Mark, Benji, and of course your Tampa Lightening players. Book two focuses on Jacks and Skyler, who met in book one...Well being mutual fanboys of each other gives them an in to talk and start a friendship which leads to more which leads to more and more if you know what I mean.
I loved that their love story wasn't complicated, I loved that they had a support system and people who loved and looked out for them because not everyone does. I'm not necessarily sure I feel the reaction from the hockey community at large would have been as accepting as it seemed like in the book. They did mention there were random haters but they had good people who had their backs family found and related. The spice level is pretty standard, it is passionate and hot but you can feel the love and emotional connection so it wasn't just hooking up it meant something to them and that is beautiful. I whole heartedly recommend this book.
i received this as and advanced reader copy via booksprout for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
"...We keep being happy, we keep being honest, and we keep being us...We keep proving that love stories don't have to be complicated or angsty or filled with obstacles to be extraordinary."
All your favorite characters from book one are still featured including Finn, Chase, Mark, Benji, and of course your Tampa Lightening players. Book two focuses on Jacks and Skyler, who met in book one...Well being mutual fanboys of each other gives them an in to talk and start a friendship which leads to more which leads to more and more if you know what I mean.
I loved that their love story wasn't complicated, I loved that they had a support system and people who loved and looked out for them because not everyone does. I'm not necessarily sure I feel the reaction from the hockey community at large would have been as accepting as it seemed like in the book. They did mention there were random haters but they had good people who had their backs family found and related. The spice level is pretty standard, it is passionate and hot but you can feel the love and emotional connection so it wasn't just hooking up it meant something to them and that is beautiful. I whole heartedly recommend this book.
i received this as and advanced reader copy via booksprout for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
June 7, 2026
A straight hockey team captain changes when he meets his teenage hero
The characterization of this work as a heartwarming romance is entirely appropriate. Author Casey Morales' second installment in this series depicts a gay bar frequented by hockey enthusiasts, which functions as a communal or brotherhood-like gathering.
One character, Jackson "Jacks" Mills, experienced a career-ending knee injury. In Book 1, when the local hockey team captain, Skyler Shaw, visits the bar alongside fellow team members to express their appreciation for the establishment's support, he recognizes Jacks and mentions that he has framed Jacks' jersey in his residence. Jacks is quite shy and tends to refrain from engaging prominently in interactions.
Nevertheless, the two individuals have much to discuss, which has led their relationship to settle into a friendly zone. This work is categorized as a romance, imbued with numerous humorous lines. However, certain segments do not flow as seamlessly as those in Book 1.
Despite these inconsistencies and occasional juvenile humor, the book remains engaging and difficult to put down. An important element of the narrative is the heartfelt speech delivered by one of the hockey players, explaining his decision to marry his beloved, which significantly influences Sky's development. The language employed and the sincerity conveyed in the speech exemplify the player's deep affection for the woman he adores and wishes to be with at all times.
It's not a short read, but it was a great ride.
The characterization of this work as a heartwarming romance is entirely appropriate. Author Casey Morales' second installment in this series depicts a gay bar frequented by hockey enthusiasts, which functions as a communal or brotherhood-like gathering.
One character, Jackson "Jacks" Mills, experienced a career-ending knee injury. In Book 1, when the local hockey team captain, Skyler Shaw, visits the bar alongside fellow team members to express their appreciation for the establishment's support, he recognizes Jacks and mentions that he has framed Jacks' jersey in his residence. Jacks is quite shy and tends to refrain from engaging prominently in interactions.
Nevertheless, the two individuals have much to discuss, which has led their relationship to settle into a friendly zone. This work is categorized as a romance, imbued with numerous humorous lines. However, certain segments do not flow as seamlessly as those in Book 1.
Despite these inconsistencies and occasional juvenile humor, the book remains engaging and difficult to put down. An important element of the narrative is the heartfelt speech delivered by one of the hockey players, explaining his decision to marry his beloved, which significantly influences Sky's development. The language employed and the sincerity conveyed in the speech exemplify the player's deep affection for the woman he adores and wishes to be with at all times.
It's not a short read, but it was a great ride.
May 24, 2026
‘For the first time in my life, I wasn’t worried about the future’ – Fun with the barbacks!
The inimitable Casey Morales continues to create fascinating and authentic realms for his MM romances. His series now includes Nashville Spicy, Heartstrings of Honor, Of Crowns & Quills, Of Shadows & Secrets, Land of Jade & Fire, and now Barbacks – a welcome step away from his historic war novels and visits into Asian realms, and focuses on fun, happiness, and light hearted romance!
Setting the tone of this delightful book, we meet Jacks, the Barback: ‘The ice bucket weighed four thousand pounds. Okay, maybe not four thousand, but my arms were screaming as I hoisted it onto the bar.’ Next, Skyler, the hockey captain: ‘I still wasn’t used to the private jet thing. Every time I walked up those steps and ducked through that door, some part of my brain short-circuited. But that was my life now.’ And as the story flows, Jacks wins hearts as the patient, protective bartender whose quiet strength and unwavering support provide the perfect anchor for Skyler's journey of self-discovery. Add a superb cast of supporting actors and the result - a thoroughly enjoyable new novel that enhances Casey Morales’ stature!
The inimitable Casey Morales continues to create fascinating and authentic realms for his MM romances. His series now includes Nashville Spicy, Heartstrings of Honor, Of Crowns & Quills, Of Shadows & Secrets, Land of Jade & Fire, and now Barbacks – a welcome step away from his historic war novels and visits into Asian realms, and focuses on fun, happiness, and light hearted romance!
Setting the tone of this delightful book, we meet Jacks, the Barback: ‘The ice bucket weighed four thousand pounds. Okay, maybe not four thousand, but my arms were screaming as I hoisted it onto the bar.’ Next, Skyler, the hockey captain: ‘I still wasn’t used to the private jet thing. Every time I walked up those steps and ducked through that door, some part of my brain short-circuited. But that was my life now.’ And as the story flows, Jacks wins hearts as the patient, protective bartender whose quiet strength and unwavering support provide the perfect anchor for Skyler's journey of self-discovery. Add a superb cast of supporting actors and the result - a thoroughly enjoyable new novel that enhances Casey Morales’ stature!
May 7, 2026
This was such a fun and genuinely sweet sports romance. I’m always a sucker for the “straight guy absolutely not realising he’s falling in love” trope, and Skyler delivered that perfectly. Watching him slowly spiral from “we’re just friends” into full-on heart-eyes over Jacks was both hilarious and adorable.
The chemistry between them felt really natural. I loved that the relationship had time to build instead of rushing straight into romance. The constant texting, the banter, the excuses to spend more time together, it all made the payoff feel worth it. Jacks was probably my favourite though. He was patient, grounded, and so supportive without losing his own personality in the relationship.
The found family vibes were also fantastic. The bar crew and teammates added so much humour and warmth to the story, and the whole book had that easy, low-angst rom-com energy that makes it hard to put down.
Overall, this was a really charming slow burn with lovable characters, great chemistry, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Definitely left me excited for more in the series.
I received an arc and this is my honest review
The chemistry between them felt really natural. I loved that the relationship had time to build instead of rushing straight into romance. The constant texting, the banter, the excuses to spend more time together, it all made the payoff feel worth it. Jacks was probably my favourite though. He was patient, grounded, and so supportive without losing his own personality in the relationship.
The found family vibes were also fantastic. The bar crew and teammates added so much humour and warmth to the story, and the whole book had that easy, low-angst rom-com energy that makes it hard to put down.
Overall, this was a really charming slow burn with lovable characters, great chemistry, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Definitely left me excited for more in the series.
I received an arc and this is my honest review
May 17, 2026
Jacks had his football career cut short right before he was drafted to the pros, and now he finds himself working at Barbacks a place that has become his family. Every time the Lightnings play, the bar goes all out celebrating and supporting the team. When the Lightnings players hear about it and stop by to thank them, that’s when Skyler realizes the guy behind the bar is none other than his college football idol, Jacks. Skyler is such a huge fan he even has a framed picture of Jacks.
Mia reminds me so much of Sisi from Casey’s The Nursling. Casey really knows how to write the best side characters. I honestly want to be friends with them. Like all of Casey’s books, this one is another winner. You’ll find yourself smiling from beginning to end.
The only thing I wish had been included was the scene at Barbacks during Skyler’s press conference. I can only imagine the absolute craziness there. All the cheering and screaming would have been so much fun to experience.
And Benji’s book is next. OMG, I’m jumping and squealing like a teenage girl! I cannot wait to see how much glitter is going to explode
Mia reminds me so much of Sisi from Casey’s The Nursling. Casey really knows how to write the best side characters. I honestly want to be friends with them. Like all of Casey’s books, this one is another winner. You’ll find yourself smiling from beginning to end.
The only thing I wish had been included was the scene at Barbacks during Skyler’s press conference. I can only imagine the absolute craziness there. All the cheering and screaming would have been so much fun to experience.
And Benji’s book is next. OMG, I’m jumping and squealing like a teenage girl! I cannot wait to see how much glitter is going to explode
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, my goodness! Tapped! is so much fun! I was giggling on the first page. This story had me laughing, snickering, swooning and fanning myself. Sometimes on the same page. This is what happens when a "straight" hockey player walks into a gay bar after he finds the barback used to be his favorite college football player, until a career ending injury. I mean, the hockey player has a framed poster of him. And maybe a framed jersey, too. Maybe. He'll never tell.
This story takes Skylar, the hockey player, and Jack's, the football player turned barback, through their friendship to love. There is romance and swooning and kisses along the way, along with snarky side characters, thrilling hockey games and heat.
This is book two in Casey's Barbacks series, so if you've read book one, you'll see some of the characters from that book. And there's a lovely HEA. I am really enjoying this series, set in a fictional gay sports bar in Tampa. The characters are realistic and fun. I'm learned a lot about hockey too.
This story takes Skylar, the hockey player, and Jack's, the football player turned barback, through their friendship to love. There is romance and swooning and kisses along the way, along with snarky side characters, thrilling hockey games and heat.
This is book two in Casey's Barbacks series, so if you've read book one, you'll see some of the characters from that book. And there's a lovely HEA. I am really enjoying this series, set in a fictional gay sports bar in Tampa. The characters are realistic and fun. I'm learned a lot about hockey too.
May 18, 2026
Casey has a true gift in his writing that keeps me reading book after book of his. Tapped did not disappoint. I will caution readers to be aware of who is around them when they read Tapped!! I laughed out loud so many times in this book my husband thought I was going crazy. The secondary characters - Benji, Murph are some of the funniest characters I've ever read. The story is rich in love, laughs, found family and friendship. The writing brings out all of the feels.
The main characters are lovable but they haven't been lucky in love. They meet at a gay bar where one of them is a barback and the other is a straight NHL captain. They have instant chemistry but each believes the other cannot possibly want to be in a relationship with them. Their found families help them along the way and encourage them to be open to dating and falling in love.
I would highly recommend Tapped if you are looking for a fun heartwarming story with lovable characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The main characters are lovable but they haven't been lucky in love. They meet at a gay bar where one of them is a barback and the other is a straight NHL captain. They have instant chemistry but each believes the other cannot possibly want to be in a relationship with them. Their found families help them along the way and encourage them to be open to dating and falling in love.
I would highly recommend Tapped if you are looking for a fun heartwarming story with lovable characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 3, 2026
it’s Casey, what else can I say?
Casey Morales is back with a queer romcom guaranteed to make you laugh out loud and melt your heart.
I love the low angst and found family vibes of this series. No third act break up is giving me all the life right now.
Skylar’s queer awakening is handled so well with enough angst and worry to make it believable but not so much to make it stressful.
I think the author handled particularly well Jacks’s concerns as Skylar is working out his identity and it mirrors so well with another of the author’s previous series.
There was plenty of action still from the bar and all the wild and fun characters we grew to love in the first book. I love when authors keep the past characters coming back so we can see how they’re doing. We’ve grown invested in them in previous books so of course we want to see them being blissfully happy in their HEA!
Bring on Benji! I’m so ready for that goofball to get his romance on! The poor guy deserves it after all the wild dating stories he’s been put through!
Casey Morales is back with a queer romcom guaranteed to make you laugh out loud and melt your heart.
I love the low angst and found family vibes of this series. No third act break up is giving me all the life right now.
Skylar’s queer awakening is handled so well with enough angst and worry to make it believable but not so much to make it stressful.
I think the author handled particularly well Jacks’s concerns as Skylar is working out his identity and it mirrors so well with another of the author’s previous series.
There was plenty of action still from the bar and all the wild and fun characters we grew to love in the first book. I love when authors keep the past characters coming back so we can see how they’re doing. We’ve grown invested in them in previous books so of course we want to see them being blissfully happy in their HEA!
Bring on Benji! I’m so ready for that goofball to get his romance on! The poor guy deserves it after all the wild dating stories he’s been put through!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Please catch me, I'm swooning. This is may be the sweetest and most romantic book Casey Morales has written. This second book in the series focuses on two athletes, one whose career ended in college and one who is in the thick of professional sports. Jacks is happy with his life working at Barbacks with his crazy found family. He once was a rising college football star, but an injury ended all of that. Skyler is an NHL star who has come face-to-face with his football idol working as a barback. There is instant chemistry between them that they both keep rationalizing as friendship. But as they grow closer, Skyler has to admit to himself that he's not exactly straight and that Jacks might be worth coming out for. This was exactly the kind of low angst, warm hug of a book that I needed in my life. These two MCs were both sweet and supportive and nothing but good to one another. I was smiling the whole way through and just soaking up the happiness. Totally recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jack's is living life as a barback at Barbacks. Skyler plays hockey for the Lightening, a captain. Their courtship is built on friendship and understanding. The book is humorous despite the side characters, Murph and Benji, hogging more than their share of the jokes. It's also great to have encouragement from all sides on the bi-awakening, little angst. There is the sympathy for the sacrificial naugas, such depths of empathy. " Home was no longer a place; it was a person." Profoundness interlaced with humor, warmth and the infusion of love. The full naming never gets old. Who could ask for more in a book? Casey has done it again, another favorite to add to his profile and my growing list by him. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
May 9, 2026
Skylar, the straight captain of the Tampa NHL team has become friends with Jacks the NFL draft pick who blew out his knee and now is a part of the crazy family at Barbacks, the hottest gay sports bar in Tampa. Skylar knows his feelings don’t seem right for a straight guy who can’t get enough of his cute gay friend. Casey Morales writes these characters that you just get attached to, each one is uniquely amazing. Skylar and Jacks are the two sweetest characters with these huge hearts. They just fit perfectly together and as their relationship unfolds my heart could hardly stand it. This book is funny, sweet and maybe the best work from Casey Morales yet.
June 2, 2026
If you are looking for a break with the deep and serious or the morally gray, then you need to step into Barbacks
Is this the series will make you question all of your life choices… no… but it is definitely one to keep a smile on your face! It’s light hearted, it’s Super Fun (especially when Benji is around) and a great read… I loved Book 1 with Finn and Chase, but Skylar and Jacks crushed it.
Yeah, there were a few inconsistencies in the beginning around Murph being the best friend, but I’m kind of glad it switched to Tyler.. Murph seemed intolerable 😆😆…
In my opinion, books in this series should be read in order to get the most out of the story. I can NOT wait for Book 3!
Is this the series will make you question all of your life choices… no… but it is definitely one to keep a smile on your face! It’s light hearted, it’s Super Fun (especially when Benji is around) and a great read… I loved Book 1 with Finn and Chase, but Skylar and Jacks crushed it.
Yeah, there were a few inconsistencies in the beginning around Murph being the best friend, but I’m kind of glad it switched to Tyler.. Murph seemed intolerable 😆😆…
In my opinion, books in this series should be read in order to get the most out of the story. I can NOT wait for Book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second installment in this series... And it has all the ingredients that made the first book a hit: fun, lightheartedness, and cute, endearing characters.
No drama... And yet Skyler is going through a major sexual crisis as he discovers, for the first time, that he’s attracted to another man. I really enjoyed watching him grow, gradually accepting what he feels, without much drama—just a bit of internal questioning and a few moments of fear. And Jacks is irresistible, full of energy, sometimes a little clumsy but so adorable. Little by little, they get to know each other, let down their guards, and find each other!
If you want to be sure to have a smile on your face when you finish reading, this is the book for you!
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Second volet de cette série... Et on y retrouve tous les ingrédients qui ont fait le succès du premier livre : du fun, de la légèreté, des personnages mignons et attachants.
Pas de drama... Et pourtant Skyler traverse une crise sexuelle importante puisqu'il se découvre pour la première fois attiré par un autre homme. J'ai beaucoup aimé le voir évolué, accepté peu à peu ce qu'il ressent, sans grand drama, juste un peu de questionnement interne et quelques petits moments de frayeurs. Et Jacks est irrésistible, plein d'énergie, parfois un peu maladroit mais tellement adorable. Petit à petit, ils s'apprivoisent laisse tomber leurs barrières et se trouvent !
Pour être certain d'avoir le sourire en sortant d'une lecture, c'est le livre qu'il vous faut !
No drama... And yet Skyler is going through a major sexual crisis as he discovers, for the first time, that he’s attracted to another man. I really enjoyed watching him grow, gradually accepting what he feels, without much drama—just a bit of internal questioning and a few moments of fear. And Jacks is irresistible, full of energy, sometimes a little clumsy but so adorable. Little by little, they get to know each other, let down their guards, and find each other!
If you want to be sure to have a smile on your face when you finish reading, this is the book for you!
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Second volet de cette série... Et on y retrouve tous les ingrédients qui ont fait le succès du premier livre : du fun, de la légèreté, des personnages mignons et attachants.
Pas de drama... Et pourtant Skyler traverse une crise sexuelle importante puisqu'il se découvre pour la première fois attiré par un autre homme. J'ai beaucoup aimé le voir évolué, accepté peu à peu ce qu'il ressent, sans grand drama, juste un peu de questionnement interne et quelques petits moments de frayeurs. Et Jacks est irrésistible, plein d'énergie, parfois un peu maladroit mais tellement adorable. Petit à petit, ils s'apprivoisent laisse tomber leurs barrières et se trouvent !
Pour être certain d'avoir le sourire en sortant d'une lecture, c'est le livre qu'il vous faut !
June 27, 2026
Jacks and Sky are meant to be together from the start, but they are a little slow to realize it. Their friends, on both sides, see it right away. The slightly awkward first meeting is like two fanboys having their best day ever. The beautiful friendship that grows from there is a joy to behold and has so many laugh out loud moments along the way. The found family at the bar and on the hockey team make it doubly awesome. The reader roots for them to make it to their HEA and will find it a delight when it arrives.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2026
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
Loved every page of Skyler and Jacks’s story. This was a happy ready, with two people you decided to embrace their connection rather than run from it, I loved that Skyler and Jacks don’t build their own roadblocks. The dig in and figure it out, which is so rare and perfect. These are the most endearing characters I have come across all year, full of charm, humor, and kindness. A new favorite for me, an easy 5 stars read, for sure!
Loved every page of Skyler and Jacks’s story. This was a happy ready, with two people you decided to embrace their connection rather than run from it, I loved that Skyler and Jacks don’t build their own roadblocks. The dig in and figure it out, which is so rare and perfect. These are the most endearing characters I have come across all year, full of charm, humor, and kindness. A new favorite for me, an easy 5 stars read, for sure!
May 10, 2026
"Tapped!" is book two in Casey Morales' Barbacks series. I am absolutely loving these books. "Tapped!" is another fun story full of laughs and great characters. Not only the main characters but the side characters too. It is great to experience Skylar and Jacks relationship evolve from friends to lovers. It's a low angst, easy to read, lighthearted and fun story. I cannot wait for the next book. Casey Morales continues to be one of my go-to, one click authors.
May 19, 2026
I needed a sweet, heartfelt, swoony book to read and this series just gets better. Jacks and Skyler are relatable characters you will love their text conversations, friendships, Jack's misguided thinking Skyler is straight causing cute moments adds to this charming storyline in a delightful way that draws a reader to their world and has you craving to visit this Barbacks to see the atmosphere!! Can't wait fot the next book 😍...
May 23, 2026
I received and ARC of this book. Tapped is the second book in the Barbacks series. It's written in Casey's light-hearted and easy style. We get to know the main characters through the first part of the story as the comfortable tension in their relationship grows. The tale is sprinkled with humour throughout and I welcome the lack of angst that too many authors seem compelled to include. Overall this was another fun and pleasant read from this talented author.
June 2, 2026
Humor swoony moments and spice what isn’t to love
I loved the first book and completely went head over heals for this one❤️❤️❤️This book was so funny! I couldn’t put it down! I loved all the characters! Casey Morales can write a cast that keeps you right in the story. The romance, the laugh out loud moments which were many in my humble opinion and the spice were chefs kiss! Cannot wait for the next book
I loved the first book and completely went head over heals for this one❤️❤️❤️This book was so funny! I couldn’t put it down! I loved all the characters! Casey Morales can write a cast that keeps you right in the story. The romance, the laugh out loud moments which were many in my humble opinion and the spice were chefs kiss! Cannot wait for the next book
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book. Tapped is book 2 in the Barback series. Jack's is a ex football player who works as a Barback in a gay sports bar. Skyler is a famous hockey player who fanboys over Jack's football days. Skyler has always dated women, but can't seem to get this particular Barback out of his thoughts. Jack's knows Skyler is straight, but finds him drool worthy. They start hanging out at the bar and gradually become friends outside the bar. Their story will have you laughing out loud, while it's a sweet love story with plenty of questioning feelings; this author also brings the spice. Another amazing book by a truly amazing author. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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