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Colton U Playbook #3
The Risk Taker
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.
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.
379 pages, Paperback
Published April 6, 2026
About the author
Stephanie Alves
16 books1,384 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 624 reviews
May 1, 2026
Tropes: roommates, hockey teammates, animosity to love, grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort
Feels: 2.75/5
Steam*: 1.75/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: medium because of Logan's past
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: homophobia, parents kicking MC out for being bi, past homelessness, third act break up, unsafe sex
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Logan was quite a fuckboy, and Nathan crushed on him for 2 years and they are roommates who share a wall. So he would constantly hear him hooking up. The book opens on Logan in bed with a girl. Logan flirts with and attempts to hook up with other people up until about 35% (before he gets with Nathan). Once he starts hooking up with Nathan, he's not interested in anyone else.
3.75 stars
Logan and Nathan are college hockey players. Nathan is a goalie. They are roommates. Nathan is the coach's son, and he's a stick in the mud rule follower. Logan is a bisexual party boy, a f*** boy, and he likes to push Nathan's buttons. Nathan doesn't love hockey, but he's holding on to it because his dad pressures him unknowingly. Nathan has always felt drawn to Logan, and it took him a while to realize he's got a crush. He's never been with a guy before, but he is jealous of Logan's hookups, and when Logan finally realizes that Nathan is interested in him, Logan proposes a secret hookup arrangement. But soon Logan's developing feelings, and he's not happy being a secret.
I wasn't a fan of the other person drama, one love interest constantly seeing and hearing their love interest have sex with other people is just so icky. And I think the book spent far too long with them not even aware the other person liked them. They didn't kiss until 46% in, and Logan was trying to hook up with other people until 45% in. A book is only so long, and I felt like it needed to spend more time with them actually into each other.
But once they were hooking up, they were sweet with each other. They were giving first love cutesy vibes, touching pinkies, holding hands, going on dates, falling asleep with each other and just enjoying each other's platonic touch. I am weak for platonic touch, so I will give them major points for that. So there was romance there. And they were very hot for each other.
I wish in the epilogue we had gotten some hint of what Logan's career was. Because he had wanted to go professional, but we didn't get told if he actually did that. And it would have just been nice to visualize what their future looks like, did Logan have a dream job after hockey? Some identity after hockey.
And a minor pet peeve of mine, I hate when an author romanticizes going without a condom between the MCs. Unsafe sex is not romantic. Get tested, especially when you're as active as Logan was, and then go without a condom if you really want to. Don't just make trusting a person and being close to them a showy moment of "romance".
Some notable moments:
"I force myself to stay calm when his leg touches mine again. Deep breaths. Homicide is frowned upon."
"“What are you doing here?” he asks. “Thought you’d be out tonight.” I stretch out my legs, leaning back on my hands. “Kinda wanted to stay in with my babysitter instead.” That gets me a look over the rim of those glasses. “I’m not your babysitter.” “Oh right.” I tilt my head. “You’re just my baby.”"
"How he could ever think I’d want anyone but him is beyond me. When I close my eyes, all I see is Nathan curled up in my bed, his forehead tucked to my chest, his pinky wrapped around mine. Nobody else even comes close."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2.75/5
Steam*: 1.75/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: medium because of Logan's past
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: homophobia, parents kicking MC out for being bi, past homelessness, third act break up, unsafe sex
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Logan was quite a fuckboy, and Nathan crushed on him for 2 years and they are roommates who share a wall. So he would constantly hear him hooking up. The book opens on Logan in bed with a girl. Logan flirts with and attempts to hook up with other people up until about 35% (before he gets with Nathan). Once he starts hooking up with Nathan, he's not interested in anyone else.
3.75 stars
Logan and Nathan are college hockey players. Nathan is a goalie. They are roommates. Nathan is the coach's son, and he's a stick in the mud rule follower. Logan is a bisexual party boy, a f*** boy, and he likes to push Nathan's buttons. Nathan doesn't love hockey, but he's holding on to it because his dad pressures him unknowingly. Nathan has always felt drawn to Logan, and it took him a while to realize he's got a crush. He's never been with a guy before, but he is jealous of Logan's hookups, and when Logan finally realizes that Nathan is interested in him, Logan proposes a secret hookup arrangement. But soon Logan's developing feelings, and he's not happy being a secret.
I wasn't a fan of the other person drama, one love interest constantly seeing and hearing their love interest have sex with other people is just so icky. And I think the book spent far too long with them not even aware the other person liked them. They didn't kiss until 46% in, and Logan was trying to hook up with other people until 45% in. A book is only so long, and I felt like it needed to spend more time with them actually into each other.
But once they were hooking up, they were sweet with each other. They were giving first love cutesy vibes, touching pinkies, holding hands, going on dates, falling asleep with each other and just enjoying each other's platonic touch. I am weak for platonic touch, so I will give them major points for that. So there was romance there. And they were very hot for each other.
I wish in the epilogue we had gotten some hint of what Logan's career was. Because he had wanted to go professional, but we didn't get told if he actually did that. And it would have just been nice to visualize what their future looks like, did Logan have a dream job after hockey? Some identity after hockey.
And a minor pet peeve of mine, I hate when an author romanticizes going without a condom between the MCs. Unsafe sex is not romantic. Get tested, especially when you're as active as Logan was, and then go without a condom if you really want to. Don't just make trusting a person and being close to them a showy moment of "romance".
Some notable moments:
"I force myself to stay calm when his leg touches mine again. Deep breaths. Homicide is frowned upon."
"“What are you doing here?” he asks. “Thought you’d be out tonight.” I stretch out my legs, leaning back on my hands. “Kinda wanted to stay in with my babysitter instead.” That gets me a look over the rim of those glasses. “I’m not your babysitter.” “Oh right.” I tilt my head. “You’re just my baby.”"
"How he could ever think I’d want anyone but him is beyond me. When I close my eyes, all I see is Nathan curled up in my bed, his forehead tucked to my chest, his pinky wrapped around mine. Nobody else even comes close."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2026
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year. I haven't read anything from this author before but I kept seeing snippets of the book on social media and I liked the tropes. So, I went in with high expectations I guess but the story didn't rise up to that.
So, this is the story of Logan (20) who is a joker, parties, drinks, and sleeps around. His parents kick him out years ago when they found out he is bi. Logan plays on the same hockey team as the goalie Nathan (21). Nathan is the coach's son and feels lots of pressure cause he wants to rise up to his father's expectation in hockey, although he likes to draw more than play hockey. Logan always found the serious, controlled, grumpy, and also straight Nathan hot. But Nathan is not so straight as he is struggling with his sexuality since Logan joined the team in freshman year and he felt attracted to Logan. They also live in the same house with 2 of their other teammates.
The story is not original but the writing is easy to follow. I like the banter between Logan and Nathan. There is chemistry between them. It is sort of slow burn. The spicy scenes are really good; they don't feel forced. I also like that they have domestic moments and it is not just sex between them. I love how Nathan shows Logan that he is not ashamed of being with him. I also like that after they kiss, and although no exclusivity is discussed, Logan doesn't get with anyone else and waits patiently for Nathan to come along. I really like how Logan supports Nathan's talent of drawing and encourages him. They are cute together.
Things I didn't like:
1) The book starts up with Logan waking up in bed with a woman. Not the best starting point for me, but the scene is not told in a disgusting way for me to stop reading. So, I gave it a pass.
2) The next chapter is Nathan's POV and he sees a girl (different from the girl above) in Logan's hoodie coming out of his room and kissing Logan. Generous me gave another pass cus we are still at beginning of book and the author wants to establish that Logan is a fuckboy (cus God forbid an MMC in a book is not a fuckboy🙄)
3) The first time they hooked up is in Logan's room/bed. The same place that hosted a herd of men and woman. So, that took from the intimacy to me. Also, the fact that their rooms shared a wall and for years, Nathan had to listen to and I quote "moaning until hours of the night" feels icky to me🤢
4) The amount of people who flirts with Logan. Like we get it. I swear we get that he is a playboy and flirts easily and attracts people. But when we are 78%, and although Logan reassures Nathan that he is all he wants, it felt like rubbing it in our face at this point.
5) At 84%, Logan has a conversation with Trevor, an ex-fuckbuddy about his situation with Nathan. Like really? did the convo have to be with someone he used to f*ck? Also apparently Logan was Trevor' awakening🙄 I just didn't like it.
6) I get that the two roommates and their girlfriends are from the previous books and the other possible couple are from the next book, but they were present a lot and I personally don't like when the side characters' talk and jokes are in some sexual way, either about themselves or others.
If the things I mentioned don't bother you, then give the book a chance.
So, this is the story of Logan (20) who is a joker, parties, drinks, and sleeps around. His parents kick him out years ago when they found out he is bi. Logan plays on the same hockey team as the goalie Nathan (21). Nathan is the coach's son and feels lots of pressure cause he wants to rise up to his father's expectation in hockey, although he likes to draw more than play hockey. Logan always found the serious, controlled, grumpy, and also straight Nathan hot. But Nathan is not so straight as he is struggling with his sexuality since Logan joined the team in freshman year and he felt attracted to Logan. They also live in the same house with 2 of their other teammates.
The story is not original but the writing is easy to follow. I like the banter between Logan and Nathan. There is chemistry between them. It is sort of slow burn. The spicy scenes are really good; they don't feel forced. I also like that they have domestic moments and it is not just sex between them. I love how Nathan shows Logan that he is not ashamed of being with him. I also like that after they kiss, and although no exclusivity is discussed, Logan doesn't get with anyone else and waits patiently for Nathan to come along. I really like how Logan supports Nathan's talent of drawing and encourages him. They are cute together.
Things I didn't like:
1) The book starts up with Logan waking up in bed with a woman. Not the best starting point for me, but the scene is not told in a disgusting way for me to stop reading. So, I gave it a pass.
2) The next chapter is Nathan's POV and he sees a girl (different from the girl above) in Logan's hoodie coming out of his room and kissing Logan. Generous me gave another pass cus we are still at beginning of book and the author wants to establish that Logan is a fuckboy (cus God forbid an MMC in a book is not a fuckboy🙄)
3) The first time they hooked up is in Logan's room/bed. The same place that hosted a herd of men and woman. So, that took from the intimacy to me. Also, the fact that their rooms shared a wall and for years, Nathan had to listen to and I quote "moaning until hours of the night" feels icky to me🤢
4) The amount of people who flirts with Logan. Like we get it. I swear we get that he is a playboy and flirts easily and attracts people. But when we are 78%, and although Logan reassures Nathan that he is all he wants, it felt like rubbing it in our face at this point.
5) At 84%, Logan has a conversation with Trevor, an ex-fuckbuddy about his situation with Nathan. Like really? did the convo have to be with someone he used to f*ck? Also apparently Logan was Trevor' awakening🙄 I just didn't like it.
6) I get that the two roommates and their girlfriends are from the previous books and the other possible couple are from the next book, but they were present a lot and I personally don't like when the side characters' talk and jokes are in some sexual way, either about themselves or others.
If the things I mentioned don't bother you, then give the book a chance.
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!
April 21, 2026
3.75 stars. Was this a very original story? No. Were the characters or setting really special? Also no. Will I remember anything about this in three months? Nope. Do I care? Not a lot. Because these guys were just very sweet together and I was in the mood for something low angst and cuddly. The author could have delved a lot deeper on a lot of subjects, but I enjoyed it for what it was: light fluff with likeable characters and not a lot of plot. Sometimes that's enough.
July 30, 2026
4.5⭐️
I am a simple gal, I see a hockey mm romance - I pick it up🫡
Such a sweet light read, no brainer at all, exactly what I needed in the middle of all the glass I’ve been consuming lately💔
It’s your standard college romance which you probably will forget pretty fast but still very enjoyable to read. I recommend💕
I am a simple gal, I see a hockey mm romance - I pick it up🫡
Such a sweet light read, no brainer at all, exactly what I needed in the middle of all the glass I’ve been consuming lately💔
It’s your standard college romance which you probably will forget pretty fast but still very enjoyable to read. I recommend💕
Want to Read
March 31, 2026cute 🥰
April 1, 2026
i knew this book was going to be so good considering that i loved book 1&2.
i had the best time reading it and honestly logan and nathan were just so cute together! i literally teared up knowing about logan's back story and how shitty his parents were. and the fact that nathan decided to include him and took him home to celebrate christmas was so heartwarming. i'm so glad nathan found his own thing in the end and he started living for himself than to live up to his dad's dreams.
i definitely ate up the isabellaryan and maisieaustin crumbs like there was no tomorrow. also that two scene with cole & aurora???! helllo?? im praying that their book is next cuz i just know the enemies-to-lovers is gonna be so good~
⤷ thank you to the author and love notes pr for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
11/04/2026 — just finished book 1&2, and i'm obsessed with this series..
04/02/2026 — okay so i got the arc for risk taker so i thought why not binge the entire series in one go?? honestly i know nothing about this series so we'll see how it goes...
i had the best time reading it and honestly logan and nathan were just so cute together! i literally teared up knowing about logan's back story and how shitty his parents were. and the fact that nathan decided to include him and took him home to celebrate christmas was so heartwarming. i'm so glad nathan found his own thing in the end and he started living for himself than to live up to his dad's dreams.
i definitely ate up the isabellaryan and maisieaustin crumbs like there was no tomorrow. also that two scene with cole & aurora???! helllo?? im praying that their book is next cuz i just know the enemies-to-lovers is gonna be so good~
⤷ thank you to the author and love notes pr for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
11/04/2026 — just finished book 1&2, and i'm obsessed with this series..
04/02/2026 — okay so i got the arc for risk taker so i thought why not binge the entire series in one go?? honestly i know nothing about this series so we'll see how it goes...
April 2, 2026
ARC; I ate this book tf up!! I was a bit scared I wasn’t gonna like it as much as I ended up doing because I thought i was done with hockey romance books but damn this book took me out of my reading slump (and especially for the romance genre), Like i literally could NOT put this book down and read it when i woke up, went to bed, and even at work lol.
AND I even want to pick up another book in this series because that couple also seems right up my alley!!
Oh yea I did almost even tear up at a few parts.. And I think many people can find themselves relate with Nathan.
«That guy was too scared to even look in the mirror too long, let alone imagine a life that felt this damn good. He thought playing it safe would protect him, thought if he followed the rules hard enough, maybe the confusion would go away. Maybe the fear would.
He didn't know it yet, but he was wrong.
Because playing it safe never gave him peace. It just made him hate who he was.
And if that version of me could see me now, I think he'd be proud.
Because somehow, I ended up with everything I didn't even know how to hope for.
And I've never been happier.»
AND I even want to pick up another book in this series because that couple also seems right up my alley!!
Oh yea I did almost even tear up at a few parts.. And I think many people can find themselves relate with Nathan.
«That guy was too scared to even look in the mirror too long, let alone imagine a life that felt this damn good. He thought playing it safe would protect him, thought if he followed the rules hard enough, maybe the confusion would go away. Maybe the fear would.
He didn't know it yet, but he was wrong.
Because playing it safe never gave him peace. It just made him hate who he was.
And if that version of me could see me now, I think he'd be proud.
Because somehow, I ended up with everything I didn't even know how to hope for.
And I've never been happier.»
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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
September 20, 2026
This was such a cute read! Nathan and Logan are absolutely adorable together and the teasing and banter had me smiling the whole time. Logan is pure sunshine and I just want to wrap him up in a blanket. I want nothing but happiness and all the good things for Logan and Nathan!
April 12, 2026
Arc review ~ a comfort book for real omg I just love them so very much! I absolutely adore and flew through this book I couldn't put it down. Logan is defo one of my favourite characters of this series he is so precious and special to me and I loved getting to know Nathan under the grumpy exterior we know of him from the other 2 books, he was so cute under it all.
I loved getting the pacing of this book and how it didn't feel rushed and we had a slower burn between the 2 before things actually started but once they started I was hooked, my favourite scene was when Logan went home for the holidays with Nathan and their ice skating date it was so precious.
This book made me cry and heart ache for Logan with how he got treated in the past and when the third act happened cos you could tell they loved each other but it was too much at that time for Nathan and scary as it was for him to come out infront of the team (SO CUTE) and parents it ended up being so easy and finding out his parents already kinda knew I cried happy tears, I loved this book so much
Can't believe the next book is the last in this series but it's also my most anticipated like I am screaming for them
I loved getting the pacing of this book and how it didn't feel rushed and we had a slower burn between the 2 before things actually started but once they started I was hooked, my favourite scene was when Logan went home for the holidays with Nathan and their ice skating date it was so precious.
This book made me cry and heart ache for Logan with how he got treated in the past and when the third act happened cos you could tell they loved each other but it was too much at that time for Nathan and scary as it was for him to come out infront of the team (SO CUTE) and parents it ended up being so easy and finding out his parents already kinda knew I cried happy tears, I loved this book so much
Can't believe the next book is the last in this series but it's also my most anticipated like I am screaming for them
August 6, 2026
4.5⭐️
Nathan and Logan were such sweethearts, it literally made my heart melt with how cute they were. I loved how the story was written with no toxicity between the MCs and the side characters. We have Logan that is Bi and everyone knows it but on the other hand we have Nathan that was still discovering himself and what meant to like boys so it was very good to see how Logan didn’t pressure him about that and always respected him and it was also amazing to see how everyone didn’t even bat an eye when Nathan came out, they just wished him well and were happy that he was happy, the found family here is amazing.
It hurt my heart to hear about Logan’s background but the way Nathan handled it? And their Christmas together? Chef’s kiss, my favorite part of the whole book.
Their banter was super funny because Nathan was so grumpy and uptight and Logan was literally sunshine with legs and I think they balanced each other perfectly because of that. Logan loosened him up and Nathan made him stay more focused and grounded so it was a win-win deal.
It’s with books like this that I can say that hockey romances are my comfort reads, they just have the perfect vibe and I always eat it up.
Nathan and Logan were such sweethearts, it literally made my heart melt with how cute they were. I loved how the story was written with no toxicity between the MCs and the side characters. We have Logan that is Bi and everyone knows it but on the other hand we have Nathan that was still discovering himself and what meant to like boys so it was very good to see how Logan didn’t pressure him about that and always respected him and it was also amazing to see how everyone didn’t even bat an eye when Nathan came out, they just wished him well and were happy that he was happy, the found family here is amazing.
It hurt my heart to hear about Logan’s background but the way Nathan handled it? And their Christmas together? Chef’s kiss, my favorite part of the whole book.
Their banter was super funny because Nathan was so grumpy and uptight and Logan was literally sunshine with legs and I think they balanced each other perfectly because of that. Logan loosened him up and Nathan made him stay more focused and grounded so it was a win-win deal.
It’s with books like this that I can say that hockey romances are my comfort reads, they just have the perfect vibe and I always eat it up.
April 13, 2026
Okay listen… at this point I’m convinced this author physically cannot write a bad book 😮💨🔥 I don’t know what she puts in these stories, but it’s literally addictive. Like actually addictive. 👀💀
I’ve only read a couple of her books so far (basically the arcs I got + the first in this series) and now I’ve reached that point where I finished this one and immediately went “yeah… I need ALL of them.” My TBR is shaking, my bank account is crying, but ai digress 💁🏼♀️💸
Also I’m pretty sure I applied for this ARC like… four times?? 🫣👀maybe more 😳🤷🏼♀️ I don’t even have a system yet, I just keep applying because I want the book that bad, and honestly?? worth it 😇🤭
Now the book… I’m not even gonna lie, I’m always a little slow at the beginning, that’s just me, I take a minute to get into things… but once this one got me?? I was GONE🫠😮💨🔥Like I read most of it in a few hours, I tried to put my phone down, I really did, but I couldn’t sleep because my brain would not shut up until I knew what happened next 😮💨 so yeah… I binged it. no regrets 😎
Nathan… what do I even say about Nathan?? I love him😍 I don’t even have a better way to describe it than he’s just… something else.
Watching him figure himself out, especially realizing that what he’s been doing his whole life never actually felt right and he was just doing what was expected of him?? yeah, that hit.
It’s messy and confusing and so real, and seeing him slowly understand his feelings and just… discover himself was honestly one of my favorite parts of the whole book 🥹🫠
And then Logan 😭 golden retriever energy mixed with playboy??? I was a GONNER 🫠👀🔥But the more you get to know him, the more you see how much his past shaped him and the way he sees himself, and wow🥹😮💨… that hurt in a very real way.
The tension, the chemistry, the yearning?? insane. And the spice??? how does she do that every single time 😮💨🔥👀😳
Also that scene with Nathan, his sister, and his dad??? Yes the one in his dad’s office after THAT kiss 😍🤩🤯🫠👀 I LOST IT 🤣👏🏼 I was laughing so hard I was genuinely scared I’d wake my kids up.
I knew it was coming but THAT plot twist ?? 🤯🤣🫠🤭Honestly one of my favorite scenes in the whole book.
This book is fun and emotional and frustrating and soft and heavy in all the right ways at the same time, and it just works. I don’t even have proper words for it, I just know I loved it.
I’m obsessed—obviously— and yes I will be reading everything else this author writes. She is just 🔥😮💨🤍🫶🏼
I’ve only read a couple of her books so far (basically the arcs I got + the first in this series) and now I’ve reached that point where I finished this one and immediately went “yeah… I need ALL of them.” My TBR is shaking, my bank account is crying, but ai digress 💁🏼♀️💸
Also I’m pretty sure I applied for this ARC like… four times?? 🫣👀maybe more 😳🤷🏼♀️ I don’t even have a system yet, I just keep applying because I want the book that bad, and honestly?? worth it 😇🤭
Now the book… I’m not even gonna lie, I’m always a little slow at the beginning, that’s just me, I take a minute to get into things… but once this one got me?? I was GONE🫠😮💨🔥Like I read most of it in a few hours, I tried to put my phone down, I really did, but I couldn’t sleep because my brain would not shut up until I knew what happened next 😮💨 so yeah… I binged it. no regrets 😎
Nathan… what do I even say about Nathan?? I love him😍 I don’t even have a better way to describe it than he’s just… something else.
Watching him figure himself out, especially realizing that what he’s been doing his whole life never actually felt right and he was just doing what was expected of him?? yeah, that hit.
It’s messy and confusing and so real, and seeing him slowly understand his feelings and just… discover himself was honestly one of my favorite parts of the whole book 🥹🫠
And then Logan 😭 golden retriever energy mixed with playboy??? I was a GONNER 🫠👀🔥But the more you get to know him, the more you see how much his past shaped him and the way he sees himself, and wow🥹😮💨… that hurt in a very real way.
The tension, the chemistry, the yearning?? insane. And the spice??? how does she do that every single time 😮💨🔥👀😳
Also that scene with Nathan, his sister, and his dad??? Yes the one in his dad’s office after THAT kiss 😍🤩🤯🫠👀 I LOST IT 🤣👏🏼 I was laughing so hard I was genuinely scared I’d wake my kids up.
I knew it was coming but THAT plot twist ?? 🤯🤣🫠🤭Honestly one of my favorite scenes in the whole book.
This book is fun and emotional and frustrating and soft and heavy in all the right ways at the same time, and it just works. I don’t even have proper words for it, I just know I loved it.
I’m obsessed—obviously— and yes I will be reading everything else this author writes. She is just 🔥😮💨🤍🫶🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This is my first ever book that I’ve read that contains MM romance. And I love it.
I love how Logan and Nathan fill each other. Logan helps Nathan get out of his comfort zone and Nathan helps Logan to nudge it down a little. It’s so fun to read how Logan’s already out in the open and Nathan’s not. He doesn’t even know how to read the feelings that he’s feeling. He’s so new to this, it’s cute.
It’s so sweet to read how Logan respects that Nathan needs time to think this through and really come to terms with his feeling, even though he’s definitely not making the waiting easy for him. It’s still nice to read that Logan isn’t rushing Nathan into anything.
This is my first mlm romance book, and although I really enjoy the romance and friendship part and I find them incredibly cute, the spicy scenes are just not it for me personally. But that’s a personal opinion and that has nothing to do with the story, because the story is good and I liked the fact that it’s two man, I’ve got no problem with that, the kissing, cuddling, all that stuff was no problem at all. But the spicy things were just not an easy read for me. And then mostly the ‘ass’ parts.
But overall, Nathan and Logan are so cute together and it pained me when they were on the same wavelength🥺 but that big love confession. OH MY GOD. my heart is melting🥹 and then the coming out to his teammates!!
This is my first ever book that I’ve read that contains MM romance. And I love it.
I love how Logan and Nathan fill each other. Logan helps Nathan get out of his comfort zone and Nathan helps Logan to nudge it down a little. It’s so fun to read how Logan’s already out in the open and Nathan’s not. He doesn’t even know how to read the feelings that he’s feeling. He’s so new to this, it’s cute.
It’s so sweet to read how Logan respects that Nathan needs time to think this through and really come to terms with his feeling, even though he’s definitely not making the waiting easy for him. It’s still nice to read that Logan isn’t rushing Nathan into anything.
This is my first mlm romance book, and although I really enjoy the romance and friendship part and I find them incredibly cute, the spicy scenes are just not it for me personally. But that’s a personal opinion and that has nothing to do with the story, because the story is good and I liked the fact that it’s two man, I’ve got no problem with that, the kissing, cuddling, all that stuff was no problem at all. But the spicy things were just not an easy read for me. And then mostly the ‘ass’ parts.
But overall, Nathan and Logan are so cute together and it pained me when they were on the same wavelength🥺 but that big love confession. OH MY GOD. my heart is melting🥹 and then the coming out to his teammates!!
Did Not Finish
August 22, 2026DNF at 51%
This book is a DNF mainly because I just never felt the urge to pick it back up after putting it down. I felt like nothing was really happening. Yes, the romance was building up, but there was almost no description of the main characters. I felt no attachment to either of them because I knew nothing about them. Anyhow, I am aware this is not the first book in the series so maybe that's why im missing some MAJOR world building, yet I still think The Risk Taker should have included some.
Maybe ill continue it one day, but for now it'll unfortunately stay unfinished.
This book is a DNF mainly because I just never felt the urge to pick it back up after putting it down. I felt like nothing was really happening. Yes, the romance was building up, but there was almost no description of the main characters. I felt no attachment to either of them because I knew nothing about them. Anyhow, I am aware this is not the first book in the series so maybe that's why im missing some MAJOR world building, yet I still think The Risk Taker should have included some.
Maybe ill continue it one day, but for now it'll unfortunately stay unfinished.
April 10, 2026
Talk about tension!
I devoured this book! I know I say that a lot (because I do it a lot), but this book was truly that great! The writing, the characters, the feelings, the spice and well everything about this book was great. I have no notes. I was literally a quarter of the way in and knew it was going to be a 5 star read.
This MM hockey romance is the third book in this series, but it is an interconnected standalone. So, you don’t need to read the first ones to not be lost because it has everything you need to know. But, I do recommend you read them because they are great. The second book was my favorite but this one took over quickly.
Anyways, we follow the love story of a goalie who sticks to routines like his life depends on it and a carefree leftwinger who flirts with everyone and goes with the flow. Nathan, our goalie, has his life planned out for him (by his dad), and he is discovering that maybe it’s not exactly what he wants. He’s not sure what he wants or why he’s he can’t take his eyes off of his teammate, why he keeps staring. Why does he get butterflies when they accidentally touch? Why does he blush when he looks at him? A journey of self discovery in so many ways.
But then we have Logan, who is out but tries to hide his feelings for Nathan because Nathan doesn’t like guys. Even if he keeps staring at him. Even if he wishes he did. But, he doesn’t want to be some experiment, he wants something real with Nathan.
Amazing book and am so I glad I ran to get this one. Like I said, I have no notes. This is a book you need to read!
Spice Rating: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
💚 Broody Goalie x Golden Retriever
💚 MM Hockey Romance
💚 Self Discovery
💚 Roommates and Teammates
💚 College Romance
💚 Teasing Banter
Have you read this series?
I devoured this book! I know I say that a lot (because I do it a lot), but this book was truly that great! The writing, the characters, the feelings, the spice and well everything about this book was great. I have no notes. I was literally a quarter of the way in and knew it was going to be a 5 star read.
This MM hockey romance is the third book in this series, but it is an interconnected standalone. So, you don’t need to read the first ones to not be lost because it has everything you need to know. But, I do recommend you read them because they are great. The second book was my favorite but this one took over quickly.
Anyways, we follow the love story of a goalie who sticks to routines like his life depends on it and a carefree leftwinger who flirts with everyone and goes with the flow. Nathan, our goalie, has his life planned out for him (by his dad), and he is discovering that maybe it’s not exactly what he wants. He’s not sure what he wants or why he’s he can’t take his eyes off of his teammate, why he keeps staring. Why does he get butterflies when they accidentally touch? Why does he blush when he looks at him? A journey of self discovery in so many ways.
But then we have Logan, who is out but tries to hide his feelings for Nathan because Nathan doesn’t like guys. Even if he keeps staring at him. Even if he wishes he did. But, he doesn’t want to be some experiment, he wants something real with Nathan.
Amazing book and am so I glad I ran to get this one. Like I said, I have no notes. This is a book you need to read!
Spice Rating: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
💚 Broody Goalie x Golden Retriever
💚 MM Hockey Romance
💚 Self Discovery
💚 Roommates and Teammates
💚 College Romance
💚 Teasing Banter
Have you read this series?
July 5, 2026
Reducing a star because there are 3 m/f couples in this book and half of the book is about them which I skipped tbh...
July 29, 2026
5 stars✨️
Omg I haven't felt like this over a book in a while!! Reading this made me so giddy🫠
I loved every second of this book! Nathan and Logan are such a cute couple😭 I love them so much.
I will definitely be going back and reading the rest of the series!
Omg I haven't felt like this over a book in a while!! Reading this made me so giddy🫠
I loved every second of this book! Nathan and Logan are such a cute couple😭 I love them so much.
I will definitely be going back and reading the rest of the series!
September 29, 2026
These are addicting. Like I’m on a ROLL
April 12, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
I sincerely enjoyed destroying that in 18 hours and procrastinating studying for finals in the process 🫡 NO ONE CAN SAY MY PRIORITIES AREN’T STRAIGHT ❌
I sincerely enjoyed destroying that in 18 hours and procrastinating studying for finals in the process 🫡 NO ONE CAN SAY MY PRIORITIES AREN’T STRAIGHT ❌
April 21, 2026
ARC Review — *The Risk Taker* by Stephanie Alves ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
First off, thank you for the ARC!
I had been dying to read this book since Stephanie started posting teasers. I caught on in book 2 that at some point we were going to get a Nathan and Logan book and it definitely did not disappoint.
Okay, I had such a good time with this book. It hooked me pretty fast and I didn’t want to put it down. It’s set around a college hockey team, and the vibes are *immaculate* if you like sports romance + tension.
Nathan is very much the serious, rule-following type, while Logan is chaotic, flirty, and just does whatever he wants—and their dynamic is SO fun. The banter?? Top tier. But it’s not just funny, there’s a lot of emotion underneath everything, and you really feel them slowly opening up to each other.
The romance is definitely a slow burn, but in the best way. You get all the tension, all the buildup, and when things finally hit, it’s worth it. I also loved that both characters had depth—especially Logan, who’s way more than just the “carefree” guy.
If you like:
* MM romance
* grumpy x sunshine
* teammates to lovers
* slow burn with feelings
…you’ll probably eat this up like I did.
Overall, super emotional, really engaging, and definitely stuck with me after I finished.
First off, thank you for the ARC!
I had been dying to read this book since Stephanie started posting teasers. I caught on in book 2 that at some point we were going to get a Nathan and Logan book and it definitely did not disappoint.
Okay, I had such a good time with this book. It hooked me pretty fast and I didn’t want to put it down. It’s set around a college hockey team, and the vibes are *immaculate* if you like sports romance + tension.
Nathan is very much the serious, rule-following type, while Logan is chaotic, flirty, and just does whatever he wants—and their dynamic is SO fun. The banter?? Top tier. But it’s not just funny, there’s a lot of emotion underneath everything, and you really feel them slowly opening up to each other.
The romance is definitely a slow burn, but in the best way. You get all the tension, all the buildup, and when things finally hit, it’s worth it. I also loved that both characters had depth—especially Logan, who’s way more than just the “carefree” guy.
If you like:
* MM romance
* grumpy x sunshine
* teammates to lovers
* slow burn with feelings
…you’ll probably eat this up like I did.
Overall, super emotional, really engaging, and definitely stuck with me after I finished.
April 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall, I didn't really like this book, although it's not bad. Everything was fine, really. The writing style is wonderful and it's an easy read, but the story lacks originality. Maybe it's because I've already read a lot of hockey novels. But I didn't see anything new. So, three stars.
Overall, I didn't really like this book, although it's not bad. Everything was fine, really. The writing style is wonderful and it's an easy read, but the story lacks originality. Maybe it's because I've already read a lot of hockey novels. But I didn't see anything new. So, three stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I saw I’d been chosen for this ARC I literally squealed. I’ve read the first two books in the series, so I already knew this was going to be good… but I did not expect this.
I genuinely didn’t think anything could top book one, but wow… I was so wrong.
Let’s start with Nathan. Going into this, I didn’t have strong feelings about him, sometimes I liked him, sometimes he annoyed me. But in his own book? He is EVERYTHING. The depth of his internal struggle with hockey and not knowing who he is completely took me by surprise. You would never guess from the earlier books just how much he was dealing with. This completely changed how I see him.
And Logan??? Easily my favourite male character in the entire series. When we start learning about his past, I was already emotional… and then we get to chapter 31 and I was fully sobbing. Like actual tears. Have still not recovered.
Their relationship absolutely broke me in the best way. Logan being out and proud while Nathan is still figuring himself out added so much tension and heartbreak. That conflict felt so real, and Logan refusing to hide who he is?? I loved him even more for that.
But what REALLY got me was the team. No toxic masculinity, no judgement , just pure support and love for their teammates. And Nathan being the one to step up?? That meant EVERYTHING. Logan deserved someone who would choose him loudly, and Nathan really showed up.
They are complete opposites, but they fit together so perfectly. The way they support and push each other to be their true selves??? I’m obsessed
Honestly… no notes. This might actually be my favourite book of the year so far, and I don’t say that lightly. It’s going to take something seriously special to top this.
I genuinely didn’t think anything could top book one, but wow… I was so wrong.
Let’s start with Nathan. Going into this, I didn’t have strong feelings about him, sometimes I liked him, sometimes he annoyed me. But in his own book? He is EVERYTHING. The depth of his internal struggle with hockey and not knowing who he is completely took me by surprise. You would never guess from the earlier books just how much he was dealing with. This completely changed how I see him.
And Logan??? Easily my favourite male character in the entire series. When we start learning about his past, I was already emotional… and then we get to chapter 31 and I was fully sobbing. Like actual tears. Have still not recovered.
Their relationship absolutely broke me in the best way. Logan being out and proud while Nathan is still figuring himself out added so much tension and heartbreak. That conflict felt so real, and Logan refusing to hide who he is?? I loved him even more for that.
But what REALLY got me was the team. No toxic masculinity, no judgement , just pure support and love for their teammates. And Nathan being the one to step up?? That meant EVERYTHING. Logan deserved someone who would choose him loudly, and Nathan really showed up.
They are complete opposites, but they fit together so perfectly. The way they support and push each other to be their true selves??? I’m obsessed
Honestly… no notes. This might actually be my favourite book of the year so far, and I don’t say that lightly. It’s going to take something seriously special to top this.
Did Not Finish
May 11, 202644% and all we’ve really accomplished are the various cameos from the other couples in this series
May 1, 2026
Boring and too much of the characters from the other books. I didn’t really understand why they liked each other or fell in love?? Idk
May 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️/ 3 🌶️
I have really been enjoying this series, but this is my favourite book in the series for sure. I am a true mood reader and have been reading a lot of MM romance lately and this book is a standout for sure.
I loved the grumpy/sunshine dynamic of these two. Nathan and Logan had incredible banter and chemistry.
This book had everything I needed; it had flirty banter, jealous and possessive moments, true emotional intimacy, and its fair share of heartbreaking and/or angsty gut wrenching moments that made me feel so bad for them, especially Logan, my heart was tearing apart for him.
Nathan and Logan had such depths to their personalities as well – the inspiration for the comic are you kidding me .... and the grumpy guy being so soft and whimpering. 😍 These two were absolutely down bad for one another. Also, the present scene, sobbing. 😭
The spice was absolutely spicy with a good amount of possessiveness and also whimpering, ‘good boy’ and ‘baby’ moments.
I had a lot of fun with this one but it was so well balanced with enough sweet non-spicy moments between Nathan and Logan that were totally swoon worthy, coupled with some really funny moments and some truly sad moments that really showcased the connection between these two.
Any book that makes me feel strongly for the characters is a success for me – and this one definitively hit that mark. At the same time it still managed to be a fun, quick read.
Tropes etc.
💚MM Romance
💚Hockey romance
💚Teammates
💚Broody x Golden retriever
💚Roommates
💚Sneaking around
💚Teasing banter
💚Bi MMC x Self discovery
“You make it hard to breathe sometimes and I hated you at for it at first but then... then I realized I didn't hate it at all. I needed it. I needed you.”
I have really been enjoying this series, but this is my favourite book in the series for sure. I am a true mood reader and have been reading a lot of MM romance lately and this book is a standout for sure.
I loved the grumpy/sunshine dynamic of these two. Nathan and Logan had incredible banter and chemistry.
This book had everything I needed; it had flirty banter, jealous and possessive moments, true emotional intimacy, and its fair share of heartbreaking and/or angsty gut wrenching moments that made me feel so bad for them, especially Logan, my heart was tearing apart for him.
Nathan and Logan had such depths to their personalities as well – the inspiration for the comic are you kidding me .... and the grumpy guy being so soft and whimpering. 😍 These two were absolutely down bad for one another. Also, the present scene, sobbing. 😭
The spice was absolutely spicy with a good amount of possessiveness and also whimpering, ‘good boy’ and ‘baby’ moments.
I had a lot of fun with this one but it was so well balanced with enough sweet non-spicy moments between Nathan and Logan that were totally swoon worthy, coupled with some really funny moments and some truly sad moments that really showcased the connection between these two.
Any book that makes me feel strongly for the characters is a success for me – and this one definitively hit that mark. At the same time it still managed to be a fun, quick read.
Tropes etc.
💚MM Romance
💚Hockey romance
💚Teammates
💚Broody x Golden retriever
💚Roommates
💚Sneaking around
💚Teasing banter
💚Bi MMC x Self discovery
“You make it hard to breathe sometimes and I hated you at for it at first but then... then I realized I didn't hate it at all. I needed it. I needed you.”
April 19, 2026
❥ 𝗔𝗿𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
I think this was my most anticipated book of the series, and it didn’t disappoint.
Nathan always felt like a mystery to me, a man of few words, but you could tell he felt deeply and kept everything inside. Logan, on the other hand, was all sunshine with a big soft heart.
I loved their journey. Even though it had its ups and downs, I really enjoyed the way they complemented each other. Nathan needed someone who could make him lose control a little, and Logan needed someone who could ground him, someone who showed him it was okay to slow down
This book had the right amount of everything: spice, cuteness, and heartwarming moments. The only thing I would change is how often they mentioned Logan being a f*c*boy, and how Nathan had to hear every time he brought someone to his room. But other than that, it was a book that had me giggling and smiling the whole time.
I can’t wait for Aurora and Cole’s book! Thank you so much to the author and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to be part of this amazing journey.
I think this was my most anticipated book of the series, and it didn’t disappoint.
Nathan always felt like a mystery to me, a man of few words, but you could tell he felt deeply and kept everything inside. Logan, on the other hand, was all sunshine with a big soft heart.
I loved their journey. Even though it had its ups and downs, I really enjoyed the way they complemented each other. Nathan needed someone who could make him lose control a little, and Logan needed someone who could ground him, someone who showed him it was okay to slow down
This book had the right amount of everything: spice, cuteness, and heartwarming moments. The only thing I would change is how often they mentioned Logan being a f*c*boy, and how Nathan had to hear every time he brought someone to his room. But other than that, it was a book that had me giggling and smiling the whole time.
I can’t wait for Aurora and Cole’s book! Thank you so much to the author and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to be part of this amazing journey.
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!
June 4, 2026
I was provided with an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. These are my real sentiments about the story and everything written here is respectful, without meaning to harm anyone, but to offer my opinion as constructive criticism/compliments. Thank you, Stephanie, for the opportunity!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5
🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥 / 5
Couple: Logan and Nathan.
Structure: 1st person. Past tense. Dual POV. Third book in a series, can easily be read as a standalone.
First of all, I have to say something that may be a bit backwards, but it's the truth: I expected this book to be your usual rom-com that was a palate cleanser between rough books. And while it is a delicious read, it's also SO much more than that. I honestly did not anticipate loving it as much as I did!
I'm not sure exactly what it was about this book. It doesn't have anything that's outside of the box. But there's something Stephanie does there that hade me hooked up from the very beginning and it just grew from there. Logan and Nathan are extremely adorable characters. Their dynamic is amazing and never tiring or boring. On the contrary. The mix of sweetness and STEAM (God, the STEAM!!!) is absolute perfection! Their relationship and personal journey develop so naturally, you just follow them with a smile on your face, and sometimes a few tears in your eyes.
The only thing that made me not give it 5 stars is that I do think there could have been a little more depth to a few things. We do feel everything, the emotions are brought out, it's not a plain, shallow story at all, not even close. But it did left me feeling like some topics could've made me feel even more. However, there's also the positive side that if you're looking for something with some depth, but that won't make you really hurt for long, this is just the story for you. Also some things from their future were a bit unanswered for me by the end, though the epilogue was cute.
I love how their feelings for each other grow together. They want and love each other so intensely, and it's beautiful. The sex scenes were also nothing outside the box, but they were SO well written, and balanced just SO right with their emotions, it was a very intense experience for me reading them. It made me remember that sometimes the simplicity is way hotter and sweeter than lots of smut that make me feel like they're trying too much.
Also, you don't need to read the first two books at all to understand this one (though now I do wanna read them hahaha). Everything is perfectly explained and the characters from previous books are amazing even without having read their stories.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It is an ARC that I unfortunately read a bit later than I should have because of some personal problems I had, but I'm so glad I got it and had the chance to experience this amazing story!
If you want a light book with some level of depth that will touch your heart and make you fall in love hard and fast with the characters, this one is definitely for you!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5
🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥 / 5
Couple: Logan and Nathan.
Structure: 1st person. Past tense. Dual POV. Third book in a series, can easily be read as a standalone.
First of all, I have to say something that may be a bit backwards, but it's the truth: I expected this book to be your usual rom-com that was a palate cleanser between rough books. And while it is a delicious read, it's also SO much more than that. I honestly did not anticipate loving it as much as I did!
I'm not sure exactly what it was about this book. It doesn't have anything that's outside of the box. But there's something Stephanie does there that hade me hooked up from the very beginning and it just grew from there. Logan and Nathan are extremely adorable characters. Their dynamic is amazing and never tiring or boring. On the contrary. The mix of sweetness and STEAM (God, the STEAM!!!) is absolute perfection! Their relationship and personal journey develop so naturally, you just follow them with a smile on your face, and sometimes a few tears in your eyes.
The only thing that made me not give it 5 stars is that I do think there could have been a little more depth to a few things. We do feel everything, the emotions are brought out, it's not a plain, shallow story at all, not even close. But it did left me feeling like some topics could've made me feel even more. However, there's also the positive side that if you're looking for something with some depth, but that won't make you really hurt for long, this is just the story for you. Also some things from their future were a bit unanswered for me by the end, though the epilogue was cute.
I love how their feelings for each other grow together. They want and love each other so intensely, and it's beautiful. The sex scenes were also nothing outside the box, but they were SO well written, and balanced just SO right with their emotions, it was a very intense experience for me reading them. It made me remember that sometimes the simplicity is way hotter and sweeter than lots of smut that make me feel like they're trying too much.
Also, you don't need to read the first two books at all to understand this one (though now I do wanna read them hahaha). Everything is perfectly explained and the characters from previous books are amazing even without having read their stories.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It is an ARC that I unfortunately read a bit later than I should have because of some personal problems I had, but I'm so glad I got it and had the chance to experience this amazing story!
If you want a light book with some level of depth that will touch your heart and make you fall in love hard and fast with the characters, this one is definitely for you!
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