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His Dirty Little Secret #1
CryBully
They were never meant to be more than a secret.
One reckless summer.
A mistake that burned too hot to survive daylight.
When Bastian walked away without a word, Lyzander told himself it didn’t matter. He learned how to bury want beneath bruises, discipline, and the weight of leadership—until anger sharpened into something meaner. Something easier to control. Now Lyzander is captain—untouchable, respected, feared.
And Bastian is back.
Same university, same elite hockey team, same cramped dorm.
Every shift on the ice is a power play.
Every practice is punishment disguised as leadership.
Every cutting remark, every extra drill, every public correction reminds Bastian who holds the power.
To the team, it’s authority.
To Bastian, it’s personal.
Lyzander calls it discipline—control, armor. Because if he breaks Bastian down first, maybe he won’t break himself. But resentment curdles into hunger. Every brush of skin is a threat. Every look dares the other to remember what they were—and what they still want.
Because in a world built on violence, loyalty, and silence, wanting the wrong person isn’t just dangerous—it’s unforgivable.
And this time, it could cost them everything.
CryBully is a MM Hockey Bully Romance. This book is intended for readers 18+. Please see the author's website for full content warning.
One reckless summer.
A mistake that burned too hot to survive daylight.
When Bastian walked away without a word, Lyzander told himself it didn’t matter. He learned how to bury want beneath bruises, discipline, and the weight of leadership—until anger sharpened into something meaner. Something easier to control. Now Lyzander is captain—untouchable, respected, feared.
And Bastian is back.
Same university, same elite hockey team, same cramped dorm.
Every shift on the ice is a power play.
Every practice is punishment disguised as leadership.
Every cutting remark, every extra drill, every public correction reminds Bastian who holds the power.
To the team, it’s authority.
To Bastian, it’s personal.
Lyzander calls it discipline—control, armor. Because if he breaks Bastian down first, maybe he won’t break himself. But resentment curdles into hunger. Every brush of skin is a threat. Every look dares the other to remember what they were—and what they still want.
Because in a world built on violence, loyalty, and silence, wanting the wrong person isn’t just dangerous—it’s unforgivable.
And this time, it could cost them everything.
CryBully is a MM Hockey Bully Romance. This book is intended for readers 18+. Please see the author's website for full content warning.
113 pages, Paperback
Published February 22, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Review of advance copy received from the Author
The author gives us a short but compelling story filled with undeniable chemistry, a pull toward the forbidden, unspoken emotions, and past traumas that the characters keep buried deep. There’s a powerful tension between them—a strong desire to give in to what they feel, while neither wants to be the first to break.
Bas and Zan face the intense pressure that comes with being young athletes and living up to society’s expectations, especially in a tough, physical sport, all while trying to manage the overwhelming attraction growing between them.
I really enjoyed this story and I’m looking forward to the next book.
The author gives us a short but compelling story filled with undeniable chemistry, a pull toward the forbidden, unspoken emotions, and past traumas that the characters keep buried deep. There’s a powerful tension between them—a strong desire to give in to what they feel, while neither wants to be the first to break.
Bas and Zan face the intense pressure that comes with being young athletes and living up to society’s expectations, especially in a tough, physical sport, all while trying to manage the overwhelming attraction growing between them.
I really enjoyed this story and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy
This novella had everything, MM bully hockey romance. I was hooked from the beginning. Zan and Bash had great chemistry. For being a novella, it was so well written and the storyline was amazing. You felt Zan and Bash's emotions on every page. Ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you breathless.
February 28, 2026
CryBully was a quick, done in one sitting, enjoyable read. The story wasted no time getting started, taking off at a full run the moment I opened it.
As a queer woman, I really enjoy reading queer stories and while CryBully is VERY steamy it's also telling us a very real and relatable to most queer people, tale. One about not being willing or able to admit out loud to yourself, your family or to your friends that you're bi or completely gay. One about feelings you can't understand or won't admit to having. All while dripping with some really hot and steamy bits, along the way. This quick to read, yummy tale has...
♂️ A M/M Romance
🏳️🌈 Bi Awakening
🏒 Hockey Rivals to Secret Lovers
🪢D/s Dynamic
🗣️ Degradation/Praise
💧 Spit Play
👥 Forced Proximity
... plus much more, on top of a very stressful, to me, cliffhanger. If you enjoy queer lit of any kind, especially spicy, I highly suggest you snatch this one up and devour it. It will be over before you know it, leaving you wanting so much more and completely ready for book 2. As always, check your trigger warning and content lists! This one gets dark in a couple spots and again, that rough cliffhanger, so make sure you're putting yourself and your mental well-being first.
As I said before, the spicy bits we're indeed very hot and steamy! You'd think as a queer woman who's been married to her wife for 18 years wouldn't enjoy the M/M scenes, but trust me, I definitely do. CryBully left me chewing my fingernails off due to a stressful cliffhanger, but also left me feeling like a cold shower should be my next move. And for that, I'll be giving CryBully 4 outta 5 🌶️ 's, and an overall 4 outta 5 ⭐'s as well.
I think you should definitely add this one to your TBR and give it a read. If you do, you should drop back by and tell me what your thoughts are,
down ⬇️ below ⬇️ in the comments!
As a queer woman, I really enjoy reading queer stories and while CryBully is VERY steamy it's also telling us a very real and relatable to most queer people, tale. One about not being willing or able to admit out loud to yourself, your family or to your friends that you're bi or completely gay. One about feelings you can't understand or won't admit to having. All while dripping with some really hot and steamy bits, along the way. This quick to read, yummy tale has...
♂️ A M/M Romance
🏳️🌈 Bi Awakening
🏒 Hockey Rivals to Secret Lovers
🪢D/s Dynamic
🗣️ Degradation/Praise
💧 Spit Play
👥 Forced Proximity
... plus much more, on top of a very stressful, to me, cliffhanger. If you enjoy queer lit of any kind, especially spicy, I highly suggest you snatch this one up and devour it. It will be over before you know it, leaving you wanting so much more and completely ready for book 2. As always, check your trigger warning and content lists! This one gets dark in a couple spots and again, that rough cliffhanger, so make sure you're putting yourself and your mental well-being first.
As I said before, the spicy bits we're indeed very hot and steamy! You'd think as a queer woman who's been married to her wife for 18 years wouldn't enjoy the M/M scenes, but trust me, I definitely do. CryBully left me chewing my fingernails off due to a stressful cliffhanger, but also left me feeling like a cold shower should be my next move. And for that, I'll be giving CryBully 4 outta 5 🌶️ 's, and an overall 4 outta 5 ⭐'s as well.
I think you should definitely add this one to your TBR and give it a read. If you do, you should drop back by and tell me what your thoughts are,
down ⬇️ below ⬇️ in the comments!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
CryBully is an emotional whirlwind that masterfully explores the intricate dance of desire and power between Lyzander and Bastian. Ashlynn has created two incredibly complex characters whose pasts haunt their present in ways that are both heartbreaking and intensely captivating.
From the first page, I was drawn into Lyzander's internal struggle. His need for control, paired with his fear of vulnerability, is portrayed with raw honesty. Bastian’s return complicates everything, igniting a fire that neither can ignore. Their shared history is palpable, and every moment they spend together crackles with tension. The dynamics of their relationship are brilliantly depicted, showcasing how love can be both a refuge and a battleground.
While the story is set in the world of elite hockey, I felt that the connection between Lyzander and Bastian is of greater significance than the sport itself. The emotional depth of their relationship shines through, proving that their bond is much stronger than any hockey rivalry.
The pacing of the story keeps you on the edge of your seat. Ashlynn’s writing is fluid and immersive, pulling you into a world where power plays don’t just happen on the ice. The complex emotional layers are beautifully woven, making it impossible to put the book down.
And that ending? 😱 It cuts off so abruptly! Lyzander is left in the dark, and we’re left grappling with so many unanswered questions. I need the next book now! Why do I have to wait? It’s utterly unbearable! The cliffhanger is heart-stopping and heightens the stakes now more than ever, I can't wait to see where Ashlynn will take us next in this thrilling journey.
CryBully is an emotional whirlwind that masterfully explores the intricate dance of desire and power between Lyzander and Bastian. Ashlynn has created two incredibly complex characters whose pasts haunt their present in ways that are both heartbreaking and intensely captivating.
From the first page, I was drawn into Lyzander's internal struggle. His need for control, paired with his fear of vulnerability, is portrayed with raw honesty. Bastian’s return complicates everything, igniting a fire that neither can ignore. Their shared history is palpable, and every moment they spend together crackles with tension. The dynamics of their relationship are brilliantly depicted, showcasing how love can be both a refuge and a battleground.
While the story is set in the world of elite hockey, I felt that the connection between Lyzander and Bastian is of greater significance than the sport itself. The emotional depth of their relationship shines through, proving that their bond is much stronger than any hockey rivalry.
The pacing of the story keeps you on the edge of your seat. Ashlynn’s writing is fluid and immersive, pulling you into a world where power plays don’t just happen on the ice. The complex emotional layers are beautifully woven, making it impossible to put the book down.
And that ending? 😱 It cuts off so abruptly! Lyzander is left in the dark, and we’re left grappling with so many unanswered questions. I need the next book now! Why do I have to wait? It’s utterly unbearable! The cliffhanger is heart-stopping and heightens the stakes now more than ever, I can't wait to see where Ashlynn will take us next in this thrilling journey.
February 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓮
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ - 𝓼𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮
🔥🔥🔥 - 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽
🩸- 𝓰𝓸𝓻𝓮
🖤 𝓶𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼🖤
Bastian & Luzander
🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼🖤
📕m/m romance
📕hockey rivals
📕heavy bullying
📕voyeurism/exhibitionism
📕forced proximity
🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀🖤
How am I supposed to form words after reading such spice that had me gasped at literally chapter one. Ashlynn is the queen of erotica and delivers one hell of a dish in Cry Bully. Bastian and Luzander are a delicious pair that will have you needing more by the time you reach the cliffhanger at the end..
*spoilers*
Bastain is still lost in a connection he had the previous summer. One where he allowed himself to become comfortable with another man. That memory lingered with him even after having a girlfriend, feeling himself only reaching his release at the thought of him.
When it's time for the summer hockey camp, he awaits to see who on the team is going to be his roommate for the time. When low and behold, Zan walks right in. Instantly, their connection unravels as they both try to use their own relationships to keep away from each other. But it only makes them want each other harder.
Until Bastain is taking the long way back to the dorm when a group of guys surrounds him, spouting slander and hateful comments before assaulting him. And that's where we are left… just like that. I mean, don't do that to me! I need to know if he's alright. How Zan is going to react. I can't wait for the next book!! But my Gawd! The spice is hot! This is a m/m romance made with extreme passion.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ - 𝓼𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮
🔥🔥🔥 - 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽
🩸- 𝓰𝓸𝓻𝓮
🖤 𝓶𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼🖤
Bastian & Luzander
🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼🖤
📕m/m romance
📕hockey rivals
📕heavy bullying
📕voyeurism/exhibitionism
📕forced proximity
🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀🖤
How am I supposed to form words after reading such spice that had me gasped at literally chapter one. Ashlynn is the queen of erotica and delivers one hell of a dish in Cry Bully. Bastian and Luzander are a delicious pair that will have you needing more by the time you reach the cliffhanger at the end..
*spoilers*
Bastain is still lost in a connection he had the previous summer. One where he allowed himself to become comfortable with another man. That memory lingered with him even after having a girlfriend, feeling himself only reaching his release at the thought of him.
When it's time for the summer hockey camp, he awaits to see who on the team is going to be his roommate for the time. When low and behold, Zan walks right in. Instantly, their connection unravels as they both try to use their own relationships to keep away from each other. But it only makes them want each other harder.
Until Bastain is taking the long way back to the dorm when a group of guys surrounds him, spouting slander and hateful comments before assaulting him. And that's where we are left… just like that. I mean, don't do that to me! I need to know if he's alright. How Zan is going to react. I can't wait for the next book!! But my Gawd! The spice is hot! This is a m/m romance made with extreme passion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ashlynn’s CryBully is an MM Hockey Bully Romance. This being a short novella is one hella book that I LOVED. The only thing I didn’t like about it was to short; I wished it were much longer. This book was written so well that the characters were amazing from beginning to end. But at the same time, I am glad that the story will be broken up into short novellas instead of bigger books because I'm a sucker for heartbreak. Still, I sure like the mystery of seeing what coming next, even though that means this one definitely ended with one of Ashlynn’s signature cliffhangers which I should be used to since she is the QUEEN of the cliffhangers lol. Still, I also need to know what happens, if I brought it on myself since I fell in love with an author that loves to torture her readers lol!! Other than wishing it was longer, I loved this whole book, every single word and page. I devoured it. As i stated before Ashlynn is the queen of short and spicy stories but for them to be short they always have amazing plots. Don't think just because it's a novella she's not going to take you for a ride so buckle up and enjoy. I HIGHLY recommend this book and this hit the spot because I've been in my MM hockey high for a while now and this was another one that met everything I’m looking for in an MM dark hockey romance.
Review of advance copy
CryBully by Ashlynn
MMC: Bastian Vos
MMC: Lyzander Corbit
🏒MM hockey romance
🖤college setting
🏒same girl
🖤heavy bullying
🏒cheating (not between MMCs)
Bash and Zan have been hockey 🏒 rivals for years. They end up rooming together during a hockey training summer camp and everything changes :). Zan is bi-sexual and he knows it but the public doesn’t. Bash basically has a bi-awakening with him during camp. They both have girlfriends back home that they vow to not speak of. However, Bash leaves camp abruptly and they don’t see each other until arriving at the same college. They end up as roommates. Let the bullying begin.
This ends on a cliffhanger.
HOLY BRUTAL OBSESSION!!
This story. SMH.
I have no words. I absolutely LOVED the beginning of their story. Bash & Zan are absolutely perfect! The tension between them 🤯🤯🫣 holy moly. I seriously can’t wait for more of them! 🖤 I definitely need to know where their journey goes! Im obsessed with Ash’s writing and how it draws you into the story. I love that it grabs you by the throat and how it doesn’t let go until the very end.
Thank you Ashlynn for allowing me the opportunity to alpha read this as well as ARC read. I NEED MORE ASAP! This is a definite HIT for me!
MMC: Bastian Vos
MMC: Lyzander Corbit
🏒MM hockey romance
🖤college setting
🏒same girl
🖤heavy bullying
🏒cheating (not between MMCs)
Bash and Zan have been hockey 🏒 rivals for years. They end up rooming together during a hockey training summer camp and everything changes :). Zan is bi-sexual and he knows it but the public doesn’t. Bash basically has a bi-awakening with him during camp. They both have girlfriends back home that they vow to not speak of. However, Bash leaves camp abruptly and they don’t see each other until arriving at the same college. They end up as roommates. Let the bullying begin.
This ends on a cliffhanger.
HOLY BRUTAL OBSESSION!!
This story. SMH.
I have no words. I absolutely LOVED the beginning of their story. Bash & Zan are absolutely perfect! The tension between them 🤯🤯🫣 holy moly. I seriously can’t wait for more of them! 🖤 I definitely need to know where their journey goes! Im obsessed with Ash’s writing and how it draws you into the story. I love that it grabs you by the throat and how it doesn’t let go until the very end.
Thank you Ashlynn for allowing me the opportunity to alpha read this as well as ARC read. I NEED MORE ASAP! This is a definite HIT for me!
February 25, 2026
Damn this book came out the gate swinging heavy on the sexy time! 🥵 I think this was my first exculsively MM book, so I kept an open mind! This one was seriously a rollercoaster of emotions, Zan's mood swings gave me whiplash 😂 Bastian and Lyzander are rival hockey captains who end up at the same hockey camp and share a cabin, where everything changes for them! I honestly felt bad for them, seeing that they care about each other and want (or seemingly want) to be together but aren't ready to open themselves up to the ridicule that can come from being gay, and as hockey players nonetheless (I don't follow hockey but I imagine being in sports as a man who is gay might not be as easy, though society is fairly more accepting of it nowadays). The ending broke me heart! 😭 Per usual, Ashlynn left this on a cliffy..I have to know he's ok so don't hurt him anymore! 😅 Yes I'm not dropping a name, you wanna know who got hurt you'll have to read and find out! I can't wait for the next book! Releasing tomorrow Feb. 26! Thank you @ashlynnauthor for the privilage to be part of your permanent ARC team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
CryBully by Ashlynn is a MM Hockey Bully Romance. I LOVED this book. The only thing I didn’t like about it was how short it was. But at the same time, I am glad that the story will be broken up into a miniseries instead of bigger books, because that lets the books be really good paced and keeps me wanting more. Even though that means this one definitely ended with one of Ashlynn’s signature cliffys, which don’t get me wrong, I LOVE Ashlynn’s cliffys, but I also need to know what happens!! Other than wishing it was longer, I loved this whole book. I ate it up! Ashlynn does a really good job at writing short and spicy stories that are full of plot. And that’s exactly what this one is. It does not lack anything, so don’t let the fact that it is less than 70 pages fool you!
I definitely recommend CryBully by Ashlynn to all the MM romance lovers who love a good spicy hockey romance that has lots of plot. You won’t regret picking up this book!
I definitely recommend CryBully by Ashlynn to all the MM romance lovers who love a good spicy hockey romance that has lots of plot. You won’t regret picking up this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As always, read the TW/CW before diving in. This was a quick read that I could not put down. Ashlynn once again has me over here metaphorically (possibly literally) drooling over fictional men. Bash & Zan are the MMC’s I needed right at this moment. She has once again hooked me & I will be patiently (not really) waiting for the next book to see where their story goes cause as we all should know by now she is a cliffy queen & we love her for it. Definitely had me hooked from the first page & I ain't mad about it. The storyline flows well & the spice was spicing. One of the things I absolutely love about Ash's books is how easy it is to get swept up in them, the characters are dark & unhinged most of the time but they're also relatable & human. She makes it easy to get lost in the world she's building & I love it. The story, the emotion, the spice it's always there & hits its mark every time.
February 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🏒 MM romance
🏒Hockey players
🏒Dual POV
🏒Bullying
🏒Collage setting
This was a short M/M hockey novella that was so beautifully written of two MMC who are in a secret relationship while trying to navigate the outside world of societal expectations, new collage life, girlfriend relationships and their own relationship dynamics.
The MMCs are Bash and Zan who first meet at as roommates at a summer hockey camp and are rivals in their hockey league. They meet up again at university as roommates and teammates. Bash struggles with his feels for Zan and becomes resentful of having to be Zane hidden dirty secret.
The cliffhanger ending was ugh NO!! I am desperately waiting for part 2…. Like now!
Ashlynn’s writing is so wonderful executed that it makes you the reader feel the characters emotions as your own. I definitely recommend this novella and all of Ashlynn’s books.
I received this ARC from the author and I am freely giving my review.
🏒 MM romance
🏒Hockey players
🏒Dual POV
🏒Bullying
🏒Collage setting
This was a short M/M hockey novella that was so beautifully written of two MMC who are in a secret relationship while trying to navigate the outside world of societal expectations, new collage life, girlfriend relationships and their own relationship dynamics.
The MMCs are Bash and Zan who first meet at as roommates at a summer hockey camp and are rivals in their hockey league. They meet up again at university as roommates and teammates. Bash struggles with his feels for Zan and becomes resentful of having to be Zane hidden dirty secret.
The cliffhanger ending was ugh NO!! I am desperately waiting for part 2…. Like now!
Ashlynn’s writing is so wonderful executed that it makes you the reader feel the characters emotions as your own. I definitely recommend this novella and all of Ashlynn’s books.
I received this ARC from the author and I am freely giving my review.
February 27, 2026
I guess this is book 1. It’s an MM short story with Zan and Bash. They need help as a couple, if they are actually going to come out. They met before at hockey summer camp where they had an unexpectedly ‘hot’ summer. Then it was over. Zan just found a note saying “I’m sorry” and Bastian was gone just like that. Nice right? As fate has it, they meet again as roommates at university. More fate – they are roommates. Zan feels Bash has to pay the price I guess and torments him. He is the hockey team captain and he takes his authority a little too far. I know it’s a revenge type story but I feel bad for both of them. Bash is on the brunt end of things but I also see the two of them fighting and struggling to keep and hide their relationship. One is still way in the closet and intends to keep it that way. The story was lukewarm for me. It could have had more spice. The ending though…. Unexpected. I can’t wait for the next book. I think the intensity of the book will increase now.
February 28, 2026
Cry Bully by Ashlynn is an intense, emotionally charged romance that dives deep into the blurred line between cruelty and vulnerability. The story leans into the bully romance trope with unapologetic boldness, delivering sharp dialogue, explosive chemistry, and a constant undercurrent of tension that keeps the pages turning. What stands out most is how the author doesn’t just rely on angst for shock value—there’s a layered emotional push and pull that slowly exposes the pain and insecurity driving the characters’ actions.
Beyond the drama and heat, the book explores themes of power, pride, and the messy journey toward emotional honesty. The dynamic between the main characters is volatile yet addictive, making every confrontation feel meaningful rather than repetitive. If you enjoy darker romance with high stakes, strong personalities, and a redemption arc that feels earned instead of rushed, Cry Bully delivers a gripping and memorable read.
Beyond the drama and heat, the book explores themes of power, pride, and the messy journey toward emotional honesty. The dynamic between the main characters is volatile yet addictive, making every confrontation feel meaningful rather than repetitive. If you enjoy darker romance with high stakes, strong personalities, and a redemption arc that feels earned instead of rushed, Cry Bully delivers a gripping and memorable read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've come to expect great things from Ashlynn and love reading her work. Crybully did NOT disappoint and I can't wait for the next part because that cliffhanger is utter torment!!
The tension, emotions and chemistry in this novella are all off the charts! Along with the guilt that both of these men feel. It's truly heartbreaking. I found myself just wanting to smack them upside the head and force them to actually talk.
Throw in some definite repressed memories in true Ashlynn style and I feel like maybe I understand Zan and wonder where "BreakBully" will go. I have theories and I'm curious! I follow Ashlynn across all platforms but I also signed up for her newsletter so I can keep an eye out for signups for book 2!
The tension, emotions and chemistry in this novella are all off the charts! Along with the guilt that both of these men feel. It's truly heartbreaking. I found myself just wanting to smack them upside the head and force them to actually talk.
Throw in some definite repressed memories in true Ashlynn style and I feel like maybe I understand Zan and wonder where "BreakBully" will go. I have theories and I'm curious! I follow Ashlynn across all platforms but I also signed up for her newsletter so I can keep an eye out for signups for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a chaotic, aggravating little novella..
ARC Review - cry bully by Ashlynn
A MM hockey bully romance
Crybully is a dark, messy, and addictive MM romance that hits hard despite being a novella. Zan and Bash have undeniable chemistry, but their past mistakes, jealousy, and emotional baggage make every scene tense and chaotic.
The story is raw and unapologetic — parties, heartbreak, teasing nicknames (Buttercup 🥴), and even danger collide with tender moments that sneak in between all the chaos. Ashlynn doesn’t hold back, and the emotional whiplash is real.
If you love dark, angsty, and unflinchingly honest romances with complex characters, this one will stick with you long after the last page.
And the cliffhanger ?! Omggg !! Not cool Ashlynn!
ARC Review - cry bully by Ashlynn
A MM hockey bully romance
Crybully is a dark, messy, and addictive MM romance that hits hard despite being a novella. Zan and Bash have undeniable chemistry, but their past mistakes, jealousy, and emotional baggage make every scene tense and chaotic.
The story is raw and unapologetic — parties, heartbreak, teasing nicknames (Buttercup 🥴), and even danger collide with tender moments that sneak in between all the chaos. Ashlynn doesn’t hold back, and the emotional whiplash is real.
If you love dark, angsty, and unflinchingly honest romances with complex characters, this one will stick with you long after the last page.
And the cliffhanger ?! Omggg !! Not cool Ashlynn!
February 26, 2026
How am I supposed to wait for the next part of this story. In 60 pages I have fallen in love with Bash and Zan.
I have a feeling there is a story that Zan is missing to Bash leaving the hockey camp the way he did. They really do just need to sit and talk it out.
I know that what is happening to Bash at the end is bad and that he has just had a fight with Zan but even with the whiplash of emotions how could he possibly think that Zan would do that to him (I know he’s not thinking clearly).
Sorry if this ends up being a spoiler but does anyone else have a feeling this is going to turn into a step-brother series. Bash’s mom has a new man in her life and Zan dad has a new lady in his life’s.
I have a feeling there is a story that Zan is missing to Bash leaving the hockey camp the way he did. They really do just need to sit and talk it out.
I know that what is happening to Bash at the end is bad and that he has just had a fight with Zan but even with the whiplash of emotions how could he possibly think that Zan would do that to him (I know he’s not thinking clearly).
Sorry if this ends up being a spoiler but does anyone else have a feeling this is going to turn into a step-brother series. Bash’s mom has a new man in her life and Zan dad has a new lady in his life’s.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bash and Zan shared some up close and personal time when they both attended a summer camp. As the saying goes, "what happens at summer camp, stays at summer camp." They both have girlfriends and never thought they would see each other again. They were both wrong.
"This boy is going to shatter my heart more than it already is. I'm not sure I'm prepared for this. Not in the slightest bit."
This book is a nice, quick, spicy tidbit of a read. The way that Bash and Zan ran cold on the ice and hot behind closed doors is HOT! They did have a bit if a bully relationship. Just was I was really getting into these two taking things to the next level, Ashlynn decides nope, not yet. First you get a cliffhanger. I will be reading the next book as I need to know what happens.
"This boy is going to shatter my heart more than it already is. I'm not sure I'm prepared for this. Not in the slightest bit."
This book is a nice, quick, spicy tidbit of a read. The way that Bash and Zan ran cold on the ice and hot behind closed doors is HOT! They did have a bit if a bully relationship. Just was I was really getting into these two taking things to the next level, Ashlynn decides nope, not yet. First you get a cliffhanger. I will be reading the next book as I need to know what happens.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As almost all Ashlynn's books this one is also emotionally, fast-paced read that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable themes and although is pretty short it explores really well the bullying, power, and vulnerability especially when it comes to the impact words and actions can have long after they’re spoken.
The writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy to fly through, but it still leaves moments that linger after you put it down. While some scenes are tough to read, they serve a purpose and add weight to the story rather than feeling gratuitous. I can hardly wait to see where their story takes us.
The writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy to fly through, but it still leaves moments that linger after you put it down. While some scenes are tough to read, they serve a purpose and add weight to the story rather than feeling gratuitous. I can hardly wait to see where their story takes us.
February 23, 2026
MM
Hockey Rivals
Roommates
Dual POV
Heavy bullying
Bi-awakening
Zan and Bast meet each other for the first time at hockey camp for strengthening. They become rivals to compete for the top spot. Things start to heat up between them.
Years later they are both attending university in New York for hockey scholarship. Zan is team captain. Bast arrives at the dorm and notices that Zan is his roommate. Out in public Zan is horrible to Bast but in their dorm room he is a completely different person. Bast hates the back and forth between the two of them. Bast wants Zan to admit his feelings towards each other.
Lovely novella but that cliffhanger 🥺🥺 I need more. My heart can’t handle that ending.
Hockey Rivals
Roommates
Dual POV
Heavy bullying
Bi-awakening
Zan and Bast meet each other for the first time at hockey camp for strengthening. They become rivals to compete for the top spot. Things start to heat up between them.
Years later they are both attending university in New York for hockey scholarship. Zan is team captain. Bast arrives at the dorm and notices that Zan is his roommate. Out in public Zan is horrible to Bast but in their dorm room he is a completely different person. Bast hates the back and forth between the two of them. Bast wants Zan to admit his feelings towards each other.
Lovely novella but that cliffhanger 🥺🥺 I need more. My heart can’t handle that ending.
March 3, 2026
For someone who isn't big in reading MM novels, I really am surprised at myself that I devoured this one in one sitting.
The characters and their chemistry to each other was off the charts. The storyline was great, it was captivating. I loved every minute of the book and would recommend it to those who enjoy these types of books or is willing to give it a try, trust me, you will not be disappointed.
Ashlynn has become a go-to author for me since I read poisoned pawns. She really hooked me with that book and I knew I had to continue my journey in reading her work.
Read the triggers if you have them.
The characters and their chemistry to each other was off the charts. The storyline was great, it was captivating. I loved every minute of the book and would recommend it to those who enjoy these types of books or is willing to give it a try, trust me, you will not be disappointed.
Ashlynn has become a go-to author for me since I read poisoned pawns. She really hooked me with that book and I knew I had to continue my journey in reading her work.
Read the triggers if you have them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An MM hockey, bully romance? Yes please! I love romances where the MMC, in this case both of them, can't seem to be honest with themselves. They want each other, but neither can seem to get past themselves or their outward appearances, in order to be together.
A great novella, Bash and Zan have this delicious push and pull, amazing chemistry and the development with the promise of more to come. Did I mention that Ashlynn does cliffhangers better than anyone else?? Guess I'm stuck here waiting for book 2, sigh.
A great novella, Bash and Zan have this delicious push and pull, amazing chemistry and the development with the promise of more to come. Did I mention that Ashlynn does cliffhangers better than anyone else?? Guess I'm stuck here waiting for book 2, sigh.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ashlynn has written another wonderful M/M Hockey Bully Romance.
Zan and Bash have great chemistry. However in their world their sort of relationship is frowned upon and forbidden. So Bash ends up being resentful about being Zan's dirty little secret.
So we get to see them struggling with their feelings for each other.
This Novella is very well written. And the storyline is absolutely amazing. I could feel their emotions as if they were my own.
And the cliffhanger promises more to come.
Yahoo this is a must read peeps.
Zan and Bash have great chemistry. However in their world their sort of relationship is frowned upon and forbidden. So Bash ends up being resentful about being Zan's dirty little secret.
So we get to see them struggling with their feelings for each other.
This Novella is very well written. And the storyline is absolutely amazing. I could feel their emotions as if they were my own.
And the cliffhanger promises more to come.
Yahoo this is a must read peeps.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Omg! I loved this novella!
I loved this storyline! I was hooked from the first page!
I need more and as soon as possible please Ashlynn 😂
That ending... why 😭😭😭😂😂
I love how the storyline and characters were portrayed. These two have my heart! And with it being hockey based it definitely wins my heart!
Bast and Zan struggle to except what's happening, they are both perfect for each other.
I can't wait to read the next one!
This is a MUST read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Omg! I loved this novella!
I loved this storyline! I was hooked from the first page!
I need more and as soon as possible please Ashlynn 😂
That ending... why 😭😭😭😂😂
I love how the storyline and characters were portrayed. These two have my heart! And with it being hockey based it definitely wins my heart!
Bast and Zan struggle to except what's happening, they are both perfect for each other.
I can't wait to read the next one!
This is a MUST read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4/5*
I liked that even though it was a very short novella, we still got enough background to help understand the MCs current situation. It was just enough I thought for the length of the story. I loved the tension in here, that's always one of my favorite things. Ashlynn is the cliffy queen and she didn't disappoint this time! I'm already chomping at the bit for the next story in this series. It was also really cool to hear about some other characters from her other books, I like that she ties all her stories together.
I liked that even though it was a very short novella, we still got enough background to help understand the MCs current situation. It was just enough I thought for the length of the story. I loved the tension in here, that's always one of my favorite things. Ashlynn is the cliffy queen and she didn't disappoint this time! I'm already chomping at the bit for the next story in this series. It was also really cool to hear about some other characters from her other books, I like that she ties all her stories together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this so much. I was going in expecting dark dark and I’m happy it wasn’t as much as I was expecting. It had me all over the place with that emotional rollercoaster, which is impressive given it’s under 100 pages. I’m so invested in their relationship and I can’t wait to read about it more… My heart absolutely breaks for the MMCs for the amount of tension and heartbreak and pain they’re putting themselves and each other through. That cliffhanger hurt my heart so much and I can’t wait to see where it leads in book 2
February 27, 2026
This was a SPICY, dirty little novella! I absolutely loved this little book as the start of the series! You get an introduction to both MCs and a decent amount of flashbacks (most of which are 🥵), plot that will have you impatiently waiting for answers, and a few moments that will make you want to physically shake a fictional character 💁🏼♀️
And a cliffhanger?!? STOP IT! I need to know whose butt is getting a WHOPPIN’!
Bash and Zan have their secrets to sort out and I can’t wait to see where we end up in book 2!
And a cliffhanger?!? STOP IT! I need to know whose butt is getting a WHOPPIN’!
Bash and Zan have their secrets to sort out and I can’t wait to see where we end up in book 2!
February 28, 2026
CRYING
This short, spicy novella from Ashlynn is a quick, easy read but full of angst and drama. These two MMCs have secrets, from each other and from their high intensity, male dominated sports world. With emotionally charged interactions, the ending will leave you shocked at the shear brutality of bullies. This was an excellent read, and as a new reader of Ashlynn, I was very happy with the writing, the characters, everything just fit together nicely. Cannot wait for book 2 and to see how this story progresses.
This short, spicy novella from Ashlynn is a quick, easy read but full of angst and drama. These two MMCs have secrets, from each other and from their high intensity, male dominated sports world. With emotionally charged interactions, the ending will leave you shocked at the shear brutality of bullies. This was an excellent read, and as a new reader of Ashlynn, I was very happy with the writing, the characters, everything just fit together nicely. Cannot wait for book 2 and to see how this story progresses.
March 4, 2026
4⭐️
I really enjoyed this short little read! I wasn't sure what I was expecting going into this but what I got was a story that has me on edge and needing more. By the time I got to the end I was so invested in what was unfolding that I didn't realize I had hit the last page..and I ended it with a gasp and a "you can't just leave me hanging like this!". I can't wait to read the next one to see what is going to happen because this story is going to take up so much space in my mind until I know how it ends.
I really enjoyed this short little read! I wasn't sure what I was expecting going into this but what I got was a story that has me on edge and needing more. By the time I got to the end I was so invested in what was unfolding that I didn't realize I had hit the last page..and I ended it with a gasp and a "you can't just leave me hanging like this!". I can't wait to read the next one to see what is going to happen because this story is going to take up so much space in my mind until I know how it ends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this! 🏒💥
A gripping hockey and bully romance , this story had me hooked from the very first page. The tension between the main characters is immediate, fiery, messy, and addictive. Both are hiding who they truly are, and the push/pull, “dirty little secret” dynamic makes every interaction charged and intense.
Their fights, their teasing, and the raw attraction had me on edge the entire time. And that ending! I need to know what happens next
A gripping hockey and bully romance , this story had me hooked from the very first page. The tension between the main characters is immediate, fiery, messy, and addictive. Both are hiding who they truly are, and the push/pull, “dirty little secret” dynamic makes every interaction charged and intense.
Their fights, their teasing, and the raw attraction had me on edge the entire time. And that ending! I need to know what happens next
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hockey. Check! MM. Check! I went into this excited and it did not dissapoint. The push and pull of their relationship kept me turning pages and eager to see where it went. And the cliffhanger ending was perfectly timed and left me eager for the next book! This is why I love this author. Its always consistently good! And as someone that's been stuck in a slump most of the year, this short novella is a perfect length to bring you back into needing to read more!
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