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Top Tier #3
Blind Spot
Everyone knows the Rook and Varga Show.
Varga talks. Rook shuts him down. They chirp, they shove, they get in each other's space like it's part of the game. Five years of locker room performance rehearsed so long neither of them remembers when it stopped being a joke.
Off the ice, behind a closed door in the quiet house Rook chose for its incurious neighbors, there's a version of them nobody has ever seen — Rook the verbal one, the openly affectionate one, the one in love and unembarrassed about it. Varga finally allowed to be quiet, in the only place he's ever been allowed to set the noise down.
Then a reporter shows up asking the wrong questions, and Rook recognizes the name before Varga does. Because Rook knew him first. A bar in Toronto, six years ago, a conversation that went on too long and said too much. Nothing happened. Nothing needed to. The reporter isn't chasing a story — he's confirming one Rook handed him, drink by drink, before Varga was ever in the picture.
Rook can manage the leak. He's spent five years managing harder things. What he can't manage is Varga, who has watched teammates Heath and Kieran live an out life across the dressing room and quietly decided he wants what they have — not after retirement, not as a footnote, but now, while it still counts. He hasn't said it. He doesn't have to. Rook has always been able to read him.
The cover is going to fail. It has to. And underneath the panic of being caught, Rook can see what Varga has been carrying alone — the quiet, dangerous wanting of a man who has decided he is done waiting for the version of his life that he can have right now.
Blind Spot is a secret relationship, teammates-to-lovers MM hockey romance featuring a long-term hidden relationship, forced coming out, found family, and a hard-earned happily ever after.
Varga talks. Rook shuts him down. They chirp, they shove, they get in each other's space like it's part of the game. Five years of locker room performance rehearsed so long neither of them remembers when it stopped being a joke.
Off the ice, behind a closed door in the quiet house Rook chose for its incurious neighbors, there's a version of them nobody has ever seen — Rook the verbal one, the openly affectionate one, the one in love and unembarrassed about it. Varga finally allowed to be quiet, in the only place he's ever been allowed to set the noise down.
Then a reporter shows up asking the wrong questions, and Rook recognizes the name before Varga does. Because Rook knew him first. A bar in Toronto, six years ago, a conversation that went on too long and said too much. Nothing happened. Nothing needed to. The reporter isn't chasing a story — he's confirming one Rook handed him, drink by drink, before Varga was ever in the picture.
Rook can manage the leak. He's spent five years managing harder things. What he can't manage is Varga, who has watched teammates Heath and Kieran live an out life across the dressing room and quietly decided he wants what they have — not after retirement, not as a footnote, but now, while it still counts. He hasn't said it. He doesn't have to. Rook has always been able to read him.
The cover is going to fail. It has to. And underneath the panic of being caught, Rook can see what Varga has been carrying alone — the quiet, dangerous wanting of a man who has decided he is done waiting for the version of his life that he can have right now.
Blind Spot is a secret relationship, teammates-to-lovers MM hockey romance featuring a long-term hidden relationship, forced coming out, found family, and a hard-earned happily ever after.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 22, 2026
5 emotional stars
Declan Rhodes laconic writing gives this story a seriousness and a claustrophobic feel that makes you feel like you're walking through a tunnel. Words are just laid out on a path for us to follow without frills and extra thoughts or feelings especially at the start of the book. It almost feels confusing and works to train your mind to really pay attention to the story.
This is a story of a man concealing his true self. For so many years. Then, to move on to a hidden relationship for five years slowly admitting his fears of coming out because society has taught him that this is something that needs to be hidden or needs to be announced. Unfortunately in life this is true, having to announce who you truly are or who you're truly with, is always the struggle within this community. That alone makes this a very sad story while also making it a grand love story and the story of hope and happiness and proof of what we are all capable of when we let compassion and understanding lead the way. Also, the healing we get when we set ourselves free into the people who truly matter. One life to live the way we want it.
I couldn't put this book down I love the book and I love Declan Rhodes' writing.
Declan Rhodes laconic writing gives this story a seriousness and a claustrophobic feel that makes you feel like you're walking through a tunnel. Words are just laid out on a path for us to follow without frills and extra thoughts or feelings especially at the start of the book. It almost feels confusing and works to train your mind to really pay attention to the story.
This is a story of a man concealing his true self. For so many years. Then, to move on to a hidden relationship for five years slowly admitting his fears of coming out because society has taught him that this is something that needs to be hidden or needs to be announced. Unfortunately in life this is true, having to announce who you truly are or who you're truly with, is always the struggle within this community. That alone makes this a very sad story while also making it a grand love story and the story of hope and happiness and proof of what we are all capable of when we let compassion and understanding lead the way. Also, the healing we get when we set ourselves free into the people who truly matter. One life to live the way we want it.
I couldn't put this book down I love the book and I love Declan Rhodes' writing.
June 28, 2026
'Blind Spot' (Top Tier series, Book 3) written by Declan Rhodes
June 2026
"Everyone knows the Rook and Varga Show."
I really like this series, and these are two of my fave players!
It's gotta be so freakin' difficult to be gay in any sport dominated by a lot of machismo and homophobia, not to mention fear of being "outed". That BS has ended careers and sometimes lives, and needs to stop now!
That said, I do love the actual game of hockey!
(be back later to finish review)
June 2026
"Everyone knows the Rook and Varga Show."
I really like this series, and these are two of my fave players!
It's gotta be so freakin' difficult to be gay in any sport dominated by a lot of machismo and homophobia, not to mention fear of being "outed". That BS has ended careers and sometimes lives, and needs to stop now!
That said, I do love the actual game of hockey!
(be back later to finish review)
July 4, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up! this is a truly fantastic book/story. i’m a sucker for established relationships to begin with, but then add in being teammates plus teammates who are fake not-dating & sign me up. it’s a combination of tropes i don’t think i’ve come across before, & it pulled me right in from page 1.
varga is my newest top favorite characters. he’s hilarious & opinionated but usually on very unimportant things, which makes it even funnier. his energy & love of talking balanced out the exact opposite of rook’s personality, & the chemistry between them is palpable. i wouldn’t call it a grumpy/sunshine situation, as neither of them are true grumps nor full sunshines, but they both certainly see each other as the latter. it’s a fantastic relationship: how well they know each other, how they respect each other’s space mentally and physically, and i’d call it pretty healthy if it weren’t for them keeping it a huge secret from their own families and teammates. the reasons for that (mostly rook’s), however, are explained more and more as the story progresses, and even with three other publicly out players on their hockey team, you begin to understand the reasons for rook’s hesitance to come out—especially since it had a lot to do with protecting varga, and you really can’t fault him for that.
my main problems with this book are mostly just personal preference/nitpicky ones. the most glaring being sooo many characters with such similar names. there was coach markel, the publicist mark, and the trainer marco. there was also a teammate and a dog with names beginning with ‘m’ as well, which can be confusing for the reader with so many characters having the same initial. and still, when we meet the families of both main characters, i’m not sure we get any of their names? i might be mistaken, but i’m pretty sure the sisters are both addressed as simply that—”my sister/his sister,” and i was confused about why they didn’t get to have names when marco the trainer is mentioned maybe 3 times, & only spoken about but never shown on page. the main characters both mostly go by their last names, which makes sense in a sports book, but one of those names is rook, which is also what athletes often call the rookies on their teams. that doesn’t happen in this book, but it felt like an odd choice nonetheless.
which brings me to my one other thing that bugged me: how varga had almost an unhealthy obsession with “the kid,” aka rafe, the rookie. he seemed to concentrate on rafe as often as he did rook, and while i understand it probably meant more to varga being “the kid”’s mentor than he said (though he did show it, especially on the ice), it still felt a little weird. i know a lot of it was featuring the main character of the next book in the series, who is going to be rafe, it just seemed like varga focused an awful lot on the kid. there was also a teammate who has a pretty prominent role near the end of the book who’d not once been mentioned before, & even if he showed up in the earlier books it still felt like he randomly popped up from out of nowhere when it would’ve been good to know about his presence/existence prior to the third act.
ranting over, i seriously loved this book. it’s going on my top reads of 2026 so far, & it’s also my first book by this author. i do recommend reading the first two books in the series (which i did not do but will be correcting soon) before this one just because those characters play big parts in ‘blind spot’ as well, and i’m very curious as to how those relationships developed & what it was like for them coming out as professional athletes on the same team, paving the way for others.
so, yes, this is a fantastic book and story, varga is incredibly compelling, and rook’s love for him and willingness to listen to anything & everything varga has to say—even when he’s repeating himself & his speeches about avocados or duvets or curtain gaps—is so perfect. the character development in rook was more noticeable to me than in varga, but that’s not to say varga didn’t have his own solid arc as well. i think rook almost needed it more, so having it feel that way actually made sense. i also had questions in the beginning—like how are they living together for 5 years and their teammates have never been invited over?—but that’s eventually explained. i found that i liked things gradually being revealed throughout the course of the book, and while i might’ve preferred a little bit more to be mentioned sooner, this technique is far better than info dumping. it again also could’ve helped if i’d read books 1 and 2 first, lol.
thank you so much to booksprout and declan rhodes for providing a free arc in exchange for a voluntary, honest review.
varga is my newest top favorite characters. he’s hilarious & opinionated but usually on very unimportant things, which makes it even funnier. his energy & love of talking balanced out the exact opposite of rook’s personality, & the chemistry between them is palpable. i wouldn’t call it a grumpy/sunshine situation, as neither of them are true grumps nor full sunshines, but they both certainly see each other as the latter. it’s a fantastic relationship: how well they know each other, how they respect each other’s space mentally and physically, and i’d call it pretty healthy if it weren’t for them keeping it a huge secret from their own families and teammates. the reasons for that (mostly rook’s), however, are explained more and more as the story progresses, and even with three other publicly out players on their hockey team, you begin to understand the reasons for rook’s hesitance to come out—especially since it had a lot to do with protecting varga, and you really can’t fault him for that.
my main problems with this book are mostly just personal preference/nitpicky ones. the most glaring being sooo many characters with such similar names. there was coach markel, the publicist mark, and the trainer marco. there was also a teammate and a dog with names beginning with ‘m’ as well, which can be confusing for the reader with so many characters having the same initial. and still, when we meet the families of both main characters, i’m not sure we get any of their names? i might be mistaken, but i’m pretty sure the sisters are both addressed as simply that—”my sister/his sister,” and i was confused about why they didn’t get to have names when marco the trainer is mentioned maybe 3 times, & only spoken about but never shown on page. the main characters both mostly go by their last names, which makes sense in a sports book, but one of those names is rook, which is also what athletes often call the rookies on their teams. that doesn’t happen in this book, but it felt like an odd choice nonetheless.
which brings me to my one other thing that bugged me: how varga had almost an unhealthy obsession with “the kid,” aka rafe, the rookie. he seemed to concentrate on rafe as often as he did rook, and while i understand it probably meant more to varga being “the kid”’s mentor than he said (though he did show it, especially on the ice), it still felt a little weird. i know a lot of it was featuring the main character of the next book in the series, who is going to be rafe, it just seemed like varga focused an awful lot on the kid. there was also a teammate who has a pretty prominent role near the end of the book who’d not once been mentioned before, & even if he showed up in the earlier books it still felt like he randomly popped up from out of nowhere when it would’ve been good to know about his presence/existence prior to the third act.
ranting over, i seriously loved this book. it’s going on my top reads of 2026 so far, & it’s also my first book by this author. i do recommend reading the first two books in the series (which i did not do but will be correcting soon) before this one just because those characters play big parts in ‘blind spot’ as well, and i’m very curious as to how those relationships developed & what it was like for them coming out as professional athletes on the same team, paving the way for others.
so, yes, this is a fantastic book and story, varga is incredibly compelling, and rook’s love for him and willingness to listen to anything & everything varga has to say—even when he’s repeating himself & his speeches about avocados or duvets or curtain gaps—is so perfect. the character development in rook was more noticeable to me than in varga, but that’s not to say varga didn’t have his own solid arc as well. i think rook almost needed it more, so having it feel that way actually made sense. i also had questions in the beginning—like how are they living together for 5 years and their teammates have never been invited over?—but that’s eventually explained. i found that i liked things gradually being revealed throughout the course of the book, and while i might’ve preferred a little bit more to be mentioned sooner, this technique is far better than info dumping. it again also could’ve helped if i’d read books 1 and 2 first, lol.
thank you so much to booksprout and declan rhodes for providing a free arc in exchange for a voluntary, honest review.
July 5, 2026
I had a harder time getting into this book but I’m not sure why. I have enjoyed all of Declan’s books so far, this one started out slow for me, not sure where it was going, but once I got deeper into the book, I did get more engaged. I understood why Rook was so hesitant to publicly admit his relationship with Varga, but keeping a committed relationship under wraps from the same core group of people for five years seemed incredibly exhausting. Since there were at least two other gay couples on the team, I had trouble understanding why Rook was so adamant about it, even given his past experience. Times and acceptances of things had changed over his time playing professionally Not sharing reasons for his protectiveness with Varga was doing him a dis-service, in my view, so many years were not used to their full potential with their families and teammates by trying to keep things hidden. When the reporter Rook had met six years ago resurfaced with his request for a story, it was the catalyst for some serious consideration about the relationship and what to admit and where to go to move forward. I was glad to see Varga get the chance to share his wants and needs rather than always going along with Rook. Rook, for his part, seemed a bit controlling, although with acquiescence from Varga. I was totally on board when they planned their big reveal, but was more satisfied with what they eventually did instead.
Both MCs were interesting and complex personalities, seeing the flip in their relationship with their teammates versus their home life was an interesting contrast. Both had their parts to play in the public/private life they lived, they seemed to have it down to a well-controlled public face and a more natural, realistic private one, one which met both their needs in their situation. I think they will be happier, both publicly and privately, after admitting their actual relationship and being able to make whatever adjustments they needed for it to be natural to both.
The team and families were unknowingly supportive in the cover-up life they lived in public, although they did have some teammates and family members who had figured out the truth but said nothing to out them as a couple. Having the chance to come out in their own way and time just felt right to me.
I really liked the character of Rafe, the way he hung on every word of the “wisdom” that Varga was imparting to him, and his reaction to Rook and Varga once they came out. I look forward to his book next, and wonder who, when and where the man for him will appear. I received an advance copy from the author for free, and this is my voluntary review.
Both MCs were interesting and complex personalities, seeing the flip in their relationship with their teammates versus their home life was an interesting contrast. Both had their parts to play in the public/private life they lived, they seemed to have it down to a well-controlled public face and a more natural, realistic private one, one which met both their needs in their situation. I think they will be happier, both publicly and privately, after admitting their actual relationship and being able to make whatever adjustments they needed for it to be natural to both.
The team and families were unknowingly supportive in the cover-up life they lived in public, although they did have some teammates and family members who had figured out the truth but said nothing to out them as a couple. Having the chance to come out in their own way and time just felt right to me.
I really liked the character of Rafe, the way he hung on every word of the “wisdom” that Varga was imparting to him, and his reaction to Rook and Varga once they came out. I look forward to his book next, and wonder who, when and where the man for him will appear. I received an advance copy from the author for free, and this is my voluntary review.
June 22, 2026
Supportive Teammates, and a reporter, know a relationship exists
Two residences are established; however, hockey teammates Varga and Rook share only one. Varga collects his mail at his rental property, and both individuals possess remote controls for Rook's garage, allowing them to park swiftly and close the doors as they are pulling into the parking spaces.
Other teammates are paired and often spend the night together in the same hotel room when on the road. Nevertheless, Varga and Rook merely share a brief visit of approximately an hour with others while traveling. Their private lives are meticulously concealed through 'chirps' and commentary, which many of their teammates interpret as signs of mutual dislike. However, the "room' is aware, and over the course of five years, the suspicion has intensified. A reporter is aware of the story but refrains from publishing it at Rook’s request for confidentiality.
Varga, however, seeks more—he desires a genuine relationship. He prefers not to live in separate homes; he remains in Rook’s blind spot, with Rook hesitant to disclose their relationship to others, many of whom are already aware. Rook has also met with the reporter and possesses comprehensive knowledge.
Author Declan Rhodes provides a vivid depiction of what the 'room'- the team space used before games - embodies. His understanding of hockey is precise and intense. He employs the on-ice narrative of a game as a metaphor for the actions and lives of the two men.
This work presents a compelling account of the pressures faced by athletes competing in highly public arenas while maintaining private lives. Within the predominantly male environment of professional hockey, being openly gay and having a partner is uncommon. Rhodes' material is engaging; readers can perceive the shifts within the "room" whenever changes occur. His hockey strategies serve as a mirror to the off-ice actions. Although somewhat lengthy, it remains a valuable and noteworthy read.
Two residences are established; however, hockey teammates Varga and Rook share only one. Varga collects his mail at his rental property, and both individuals possess remote controls for Rook's garage, allowing them to park swiftly and close the doors as they are pulling into the parking spaces.
Other teammates are paired and often spend the night together in the same hotel room when on the road. Nevertheless, Varga and Rook merely share a brief visit of approximately an hour with others while traveling. Their private lives are meticulously concealed through 'chirps' and commentary, which many of their teammates interpret as signs of mutual dislike. However, the "room' is aware, and over the course of five years, the suspicion has intensified. A reporter is aware of the story but refrains from publishing it at Rook’s request for confidentiality.
Varga, however, seeks more—he desires a genuine relationship. He prefers not to live in separate homes; he remains in Rook’s blind spot, with Rook hesitant to disclose their relationship to others, many of whom are already aware. Rook has also met with the reporter and possesses comprehensive knowledge.
Author Declan Rhodes provides a vivid depiction of what the 'room'- the team space used before games - embodies. His understanding of hockey is precise and intense. He employs the on-ice narrative of a game as a metaphor for the actions and lives of the two men.
This work presents a compelling account of the pressures faced by athletes competing in highly public arenas while maintaining private lives. Within the predominantly male environment of professional hockey, being openly gay and having a partner is uncommon. Rhodes' material is engaging; readers can perceive the shifts within the "room" whenever changes occur. His hockey strategies serve as a mirror to the off-ice actions. Although somewhat lengthy, it remains a valuable and noteworthy read.
August 9, 2026
Hands down one of the best overall books I've read this year. I love Declan's writing and his hockey parts are top notch. We've met our MMC's Rook and Varga in the previous books in this series. Rook, a quiet veteran defenseman and Varga the loud voice in the room. I loved getting an established relationship in a romance book - it happens so rarely and the fact this was also a long term secret relationship just added another rare trope one doesn't see often. This was such a complex and multi layered story. And still a week later - these two characters are still living rent free in my head. Rook is being driven by something that's happened in his past, when he was a rookie. Another NHL player was possibly outed and then basically his career just tanked. Rook has spent the past 5 years of his and Varga's relationship carefully keeping them secret and in his mind "safe" - it's his blind spot. (I was ALOT slow on this lol) And as the team has changed, including 2 out couples in the room - Varga starts to want more - wants to be out, wants to stop living a double life. I will say that for a bit - I was worried we were going to see Varga's relationship with the rookie turn into more than mentorship and I'm so glad we didn't. I loved watching Varga have the realization- as he;s teaching the rookie to be invisible and hide - that the front he puts on in the locker room - loud, always "on" etc is also what he uses to hide his and Rook's relationship. I also really loved Rook's growth - as he's confronted with loosing Varga he confronts the ghosts from his past head on and really listens to Varga. And the fact that while they thought they had everyone fooled, the room knew - and protected them. I loved how Declan uses a reporter from Rook's past - whom he'd made a passing comment that provided the reporter an opportunity to out him, coming back into Rook's orbit as another layer of tension in this story. The care these two men had for each other was very evident in how they lived together. I also really loved that both of them were 30+ and this added another layer for me that helped make this such a top notch read. This book will def leave you in your feels and make sure you have your Kleenex near by. Also, clear your calendar because you won't be able to put this down - I DEVOURED this book in a day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
BLIND SPOT - DECLAN RHODES
This is book three in the Top Tier series. It can be read as a standalone, but it’s always more enjoyable to read the entire series!
Rook and Varga are teammates and friends from the Chicago Ironhawks, but that changed into a relationship they have kept a secret for five years. Both of them are happy together while each tries to figure out how to take the next step.
Unfortunately before either can admit they want more, a reporter from Rook’s past shows up wanting to do an article on his career as a defenseman and Rook is afraid the secret he accidentally shared years before about being gay will become part of it. Varga is not sure why it has to be kept from everyone but respects Rook’s wishes and keeps up their pretense.
Once Rook discovers a few of their teammates have been aware of their relationship for several years, he decides that it’s finally time to choose happiness for himself and Varga. Giving their families a chance to meet, and then letting the entire team know are the toughest decisions they make, but once they do then the reporter is given the exclusive news.
The wonderful thing about Declan Rhodes is how well he writes the depth of his characters and the emotions they experience, so the reader will go from laughing out loud to crying along with them. Everyone should add Declan to their must read list!
This is book three in the Top Tier series. It can be read as a standalone, but it’s always more enjoyable to read the entire series!
Rook and Varga are teammates and friends from the Chicago Ironhawks, but that changed into a relationship they have kept a secret for five years. Both of them are happy together while each tries to figure out how to take the next step.
Unfortunately before either can admit they want more, a reporter from Rook’s past shows up wanting to do an article on his career as a defenseman and Rook is afraid the secret he accidentally shared years before about being gay will become part of it. Varga is not sure why it has to be kept from everyone but respects Rook’s wishes and keeps up their pretense.
Once Rook discovers a few of their teammates have been aware of their relationship for several years, he decides that it’s finally time to choose happiness for himself and Varga. Giving their families a chance to meet, and then letting the entire team know are the toughest decisions they make, but once they do then the reporter is given the exclusive news.
The wonderful thing about Declan Rhodes is how well he writes the depth of his characters and the emotions they experience, so the reader will go from laughing out loud to crying along with them. Everyone should add Declan to their must read list!
June 25, 2026
Varga has always been full of life in the locker room, but what I did not know, was that he was in a relationship with Rook, a man of few words who stayed in the shadows. Now a reporter wants to tell Rook's story and secrets they have kept well hidden may be revealed.
This was my favourite of the series. Varga was one character I wanted to know more about some of his comments and wanderings have had me smiling throughout this series. Rook had always been a man of mystery and this book showed the real Rook.
Following them from the start of their relationship and now living in secret, not wanting folk to know about them. I really enjoyed this story, as an established couple, it had a different dynamic as they was none of the awkward scenes as they are getting to know each other, instead you get to learn the reasons for them keeping their relationship a secret, how they had to balance their relationship with the team, the signs they had for each other. Varga's rambling was on form as a new team member is introduced and I so want to know more about Rafe.
This was a quick read that flowed smoothly, the on ice action was detailed and felt that I was there watching the game. Great to see Heath and Kieran, Pratt and Sully knowing they had Varga and Rook's back and Varga was on form with the laser quest
This was my favourite of the series. Varga was one character I wanted to know more about some of his comments and wanderings have had me smiling throughout this series. Rook had always been a man of mystery and this book showed the real Rook.
Following them from the start of their relationship and now living in secret, not wanting folk to know about them. I really enjoyed this story, as an established couple, it had a different dynamic as they was none of the awkward scenes as they are getting to know each other, instead you get to learn the reasons for them keeping their relationship a secret, how they had to balance their relationship with the team, the signs they had for each other. Varga's rambling was on form as a new team member is introduced and I so want to know more about Rafe.
This was a quick read that flowed smoothly, the on ice action was detailed and felt that I was there watching the game. Great to see Heath and Kieran, Pratt and Sully knowing they had Varga and Rook's back and Varga was on form with the laser quest
June 25, 2026
This is book three in the series, and Declan Rhodes once again does a fantastic job of pulling readers into the story from the very first page.
For five years, Rook has hidden both himself and his relationship with Varga. While Rook struggles with the weight of keeping such a huge part of his life secret, Varga loves him deeply and wants more than stolen moments and hidden relationships. Their journey is emotional, heartfelt, and full of depth.
I really appreciated the supporting characters. The reporter who has respected Rook enough to protect his secret all these years added an interesting dynamic, and the team’s unwavering support, along with Rook’s family, showed that love and acceptance can come from unexpected places. The stolen moments together during away games were sweet reminders of what they were fighting for.
At its core, this story is about balancing the need to protect yourself while also being honest with the people you love. One of the biggest takeaways is that secrets rarely stay hidden forever—it’s better to tell your own story than let someone else tell it for you.
This was an emotional, satisfying read with a well-earned ending that left me smiling. A wonderful addition to the series.
I received this ARC from BookFunnel and voluntarily leaving my review.
Monica
For five years, Rook has hidden both himself and his relationship with Varga. While Rook struggles with the weight of keeping such a huge part of his life secret, Varga loves him deeply and wants more than stolen moments and hidden relationships. Their journey is emotional, heartfelt, and full of depth.
I really appreciated the supporting characters. The reporter who has respected Rook enough to protect his secret all these years added an interesting dynamic, and the team’s unwavering support, along with Rook’s family, showed that love and acceptance can come from unexpected places. The stolen moments together during away games were sweet reminders of what they were fighting for.
At its core, this story is about balancing the need to protect yourself while also being honest with the people you love. One of the biggest takeaways is that secrets rarely stay hidden forever—it’s better to tell your own story than let someone else tell it for you.
This was an emotional, satisfying read with a well-earned ending that left me smiling. A wonderful addition to the series.
I received this ARC from BookFunnel and voluntarily leaving my review.
Monica
June 29, 2026
Emotionally WROUGHT WITH HEART AND SOUL!💕🏒🥅⛸️🏡
The third book of the Top Tier series and by far the best book brings us the behind the scenes of the Rook and Varga show!
Five years ago a bowl of chowder soup brought to an injured teammate started the role they played for five years- The Rook and Varga show- two teammates who tolerated each other with bickering and teasing but in reality behind their closed door they were Luki and Mattias - a secret established couple in love…
“I’d built the entire structure that kept us safe and kept everyone away from the truth so Varga could travel light. I’d been the one that protected him until now.”
In doing so they became each other’s blindspot- Rook with blinders on regarding his partner’s view on their relationship and Varga with the same blinders on regarding their relationship… Communication… Fear…. Control…
“The two of us built a comedy bit to survive five years of sharing a locker room.”
Fear of losing oneself and disappearing from the world once outed and threats of conversations had in the past will haunt Rook until a critical moment in their lives…
“Then why are we still doing this?”
Welcome to the Rook and Varga show- a poignant, heartfelt, soulful love story about team support, family support and most of all… couple support!
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author for an honest non biased review.
The third book of the Top Tier series and by far the best book brings us the behind the scenes of the Rook and Varga show!
Five years ago a bowl of chowder soup brought to an injured teammate started the role they played for five years- The Rook and Varga show- two teammates who tolerated each other with bickering and teasing but in reality behind their closed door they were Luki and Mattias - a secret established couple in love…
“I’d built the entire structure that kept us safe and kept everyone away from the truth so Varga could travel light. I’d been the one that protected him until now.”
In doing so they became each other’s blindspot- Rook with blinders on regarding his partner’s view on their relationship and Varga with the same blinders on regarding their relationship… Communication… Fear…. Control…
“The two of us built a comedy bit to survive five years of sharing a locker room.”
Fear of losing oneself and disappearing from the world once outed and threats of conversations had in the past will haunt Rook until a critical moment in their lives…
“Then why are we still doing this?”
Welcome to the Rook and Varga show- a poignant, heartfelt, soulful love story about team support, family support and most of all… couple support!
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author for an honest non biased review.
July 6, 2026
This is book 3 of the Top Tier series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone read. Fair warning, it will make you want to go back and read the earlier books. This is the story of Rook and Vargo. They are both teammates, friends and in an established hidden relationship. They maintain the image of being alone with their teammates and friends. They think that no one knows the truth. They are about to find out that they are mistaken. Things are changing. Vargo no longer wants to hide his love and relationship. Rook knows this and is afraid of what may happen if he comes out as gay. But then a reporter who knows the truth wants to do a story on Rook. He thinks he can keep the story contained but is unsure of what to do. This is their story. I loved that this is an established couple in this story. It is a nice change from insta-love stories. I have always enjoyed the "found family" aspect of a hockey team setting. I enjoyed watching Rook finally realize that part of his inner circle already knows but are respecting his silence. It makes things easier for him to reach a decision. I really loved this book. It is well written and easy to read. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2026
This one is my favorite so far! I LOVED it!
I loved both the main characters in this book! You get to know them quite well, how they tick, why they tick and what brought them to the place they are in. Because we start off with an established couple, we miss the building of their relationship, but we get something so much better. We get the struggle, the questioning and the fight to stay together no matter what. It is clear to the reader that Rook and Varga are both very invested in their relationship, Rook has built their life to hide in order to protect their future in the game, he worries that if they are out, it will kill their careers. Varga was ok with hiding but after 5 years, he wants to show the world the love he has for Rook, he no longer wants to hide. There are a couple of very low angst threats against their secret but there is more support. This is a story of love, support and resilience, both characters are very well developed and well rounded. Declan knows how to write a strong flowing storyline that will keep you coming back. You get a glimpse of characters from past books and you look forward to new adventures form newer characters.... Bring on Rafe! Declan is on the top of my list for must reads always!
I loved both the main characters in this book! You get to know them quite well, how they tick, why they tick and what brought them to the place they are in. Because we start off with an established couple, we miss the building of their relationship, but we get something so much better. We get the struggle, the questioning and the fight to stay together no matter what. It is clear to the reader that Rook and Varga are both very invested in their relationship, Rook has built their life to hide in order to protect their future in the game, he worries that if they are out, it will kill their careers. Varga was ok with hiding but after 5 years, he wants to show the world the love he has for Rook, he no longer wants to hide. There are a couple of very low angst threats against their secret but there is more support. This is a story of love, support and resilience, both characters are very well developed and well rounded. Declan knows how to write a strong flowing storyline that will keep you coming back. You get a glimpse of characters from past books and you look forward to new adventures form newer characters.... Bring on Rafe! Declan is on the top of my list for must reads always!
July 1, 2026
Romance novels featuring established couples (outside of a long series following the same couple) don't happen as often as I like so I'm always happy to read one I come across. In this case, Rook and Varga have 5 years of history behind them when the story starts. It was interesting to see how they were different at the rink vs at home and I also enjoyed the way they could read each other with the slightest tell. The found family vibe with the rest of the team was fantastic and I haven't read any other books in this series, but I'm pretty sure I know which couples got books. I had no trouble with this story though and didn't feel like I was missing anything so this can definitely be read as a stand alone. I started the story all set to think I knew who the villain would be and was pleasantly surprised to be completely wrong on that front. The description does say there is forced coming out which I would actually disagree with as these two did things at their own pace. All around, a lovely story that I couldn't put down. Definitely worth a read if you want something with an established couple and low angst.
***I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.***
***I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.***
June 22, 2026
If you have read any of the books in the Top Tier series, you are familiar with teammates Rook and Varga. They have featured prominently as teammates in the first two books. Varga is the life of the party who does not stop talking, while Rook is the quiet defense man who keeps Varga in check. People say they act “like an old married couple”, what people do not realize is that they have been together for five years. Committed and in love but hiding, because of uncertainty of how their profession will react.
This is such a great book. I love that it is focused on an already established couple. Rook and Varga balance each other on and off the ice. Their story is not about coming together but going the distance and building a future. Experiences from Rook’s past shape his decisions and push the relationship into directions that Varga is no longer content with. Rook needs to trust in himself and in Varga to start their forever now instead of later.
Declan Rhodes writes families and friendships so well. I immediately went back and reread the other books in the series because I love these characters so much. I am very much looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
This is such a great book. I love that it is focused on an already established couple. Rook and Varga balance each other on and off the ice. Their story is not about coming together but going the distance and building a future. Experiences from Rook’s past shape his decisions and push the relationship into directions that Varga is no longer content with. Rook needs to trust in himself and in Varga to start their forever now instead of later.
Declan Rhodes writes families and friendships so well. I immediately went back and reread the other books in the series because I love these characters so much. I am very much looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 23, 2026
An excellent quick read. Two players on the same team have been together five years without the press picking up on it until a press guy who Rook had spoken to in Toronto 6 years prior reappears and wants to do a story on rook surviving 15 years in hockey. The reporter knows Rook is attracted to men and Rook had told him that a man would wait until he retired.
The set-up is interesting. Many of the other players on the team had picked up on the false show Rook and Varga put on was in fact a love relationship. Rook, the quiet one in the locker room had been fearful of coming out because a mentor his first year in hockey had been sidelined when he was spotted with a man.
The appearance of the reporter caused questions that Varga expresses as to why they could not come out. BUT, Varga sticks around and they decide to manage coming out, first to another married couple in the locker room, then the PR guy for the team and finally both sets of parents. That makes for a number of sub-stories.
Rhodes weaves a great story and makes for interesting characters in his books and I will never tire of reading his books.
The set-up is interesting. Many of the other players on the team had picked up on the false show Rook and Varga put on was in fact a love relationship. Rook, the quiet one in the locker room had been fearful of coming out because a mentor his first year in hockey had been sidelined when he was spotted with a man.
The appearance of the reporter caused questions that Varga expresses as to why they could not come out. BUT, Varga sticks around and they decide to manage coming out, first to another married couple in the locker room, then the PR guy for the team and finally both sets of parents. That makes for a number of sub-stories.
Rhodes weaves a great story and makes for interesting characters in his books and I will never tire of reading his books.
July 3, 2026
This book is about family. Rook and Varga are a family, surrounded by their team family, supported by their birth families. The story is so low-key and lyrical that it is particularly jarring to understand that Rook is guarding against a single incident from his past. And jarring again when his and Varga’s plans to step out and allow people in are blocked by their teammates. Rook sees the irony in the fact that the walls he thought were protecting them are what make it possible for some of his teammates to create rumors.
I love Coach Markel. I loved the reporter with integrity. I enjoyed spending more time with the teammates whose stories we’ve already read. I loved the careful, loving depictions of both Rook’s and Varga’s families, skating close to stereotypes but instead being all about warmth and love and acceptance and embracing what is true.
I applaud Rhodes’ ability to create amazing monologues for Varga on such a wide variety of topics! They are endlessly entertaining.
Simply, a great book.
I love Coach Markel. I loved the reporter with integrity. I enjoyed spending more time with the teammates whose stories we’ve already read. I loved the careful, loving depictions of both Rook’s and Varga’s families, skating close to stereotypes but instead being all about warmth and love and acceptance and embracing what is true.
I applaud Rhodes’ ability to create amazing monologues for Varga on such a wide variety of topics! They are endlessly entertaining.
Simply, a great book.
July 3, 2026
Mattias Rook and Lucas Varga have been together since Lucas’ leg injury five years before. They maintain the image of rivals to the hockey world they inhabit, separate addresses, arriving for practice and games separately, sitting apart on busses and planes. Mattias has been caring for Lucas since the first night he stayed over. Seeing other teammates being open about their relationship, at least in the locker room starts a longing in Lucas to have that kind of openness. Mattias shared his truth with a reporter years ago before Mattias was in the picture. Now the reporter is back and Mattias’ careful management is at risk. Will Mattias be exposed or do they take the risk and control the narrative of their coming out? I understand many professional athletes are afraid of what coming out will mean to their careers, but I also think it's time that they do for themselves, for their fans, and for those who will follow. Take the brave step.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2026
Where do I start? You can read Rhodes’s synopsis when you order your copy of his newest novel but that will not prepare you for the message the novel entails. My favorite quote that will not be a spoiler is: “Be unmissable in the front so nobody goes looking in the back.” Both first time readers and us groupies will be surprised by Rhodes’s newest philosophical treasure. I do not know anything about hockey however; because of the manner in which he writes, it doesn’t matter. Two gay hockey players on the same team have lived together for five years, what can go wrong? Or, maybe I should ask, “What’s wrong with two gay hockey players living together for five years? Especially since they play on the same team.” Culture, immigration, family dynamics, previous hook ups, exposure – imagined and real, predictability, shared experiences, private experiences. Regardless of the book series, the HEA ending is much more profound than in any of Rhodes’s previous novels. Enjoy!
July 6, 2026
Have I mentioned how much I love Rhodes' hockey books? Because holy mother of Gritty, I LOVE THESE BOOKS. I didn't think I could love a fictional man more than I love Pickle, but Rook and Varga are both testing me. The Rook and Varga show were consistent entertainment through the previous two Top Tier books, but I can't say I suspected there was anything more until getting to the end of the previous one and seeing their story was next. Now I feel like I need to go back and read them and see what I missed! The epilogue, as per usual, just about made me tear up at work- thanks, Declan Rhodes- because it was just so damn sweet. Top Tier is kind of an in-between of the accepting utopia that is Thunder Bay in Storm Warning and reality, but it still works out for the protagonists. It sort of gives me hope for pro hockey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2026
Once again my favorite authors comes through with a winner of a book. This is book three and brings us the love story of two side characters from earlier books, Varga and Rook. Varga is the party boy life of the party whereas rook is quite. I love that while these two are teammates, the world does not know that for five years they have been in a secret relationship. Only one person knows about them, a reporter, who suddenly starts asking questions causing tension in their world. A great story of a solid yet private relationship and the tool that takes. As a reader you know that secrets must come out for futures to be solidified and this book walks that line. I read this book in one sitting and did not want it to end as I needed more of this solid couple. And yes it can be easily read as a standalone, but you will love it more if you read the previous books in this series.
July 1, 2026
Wow! I loved every minute of reading this.
It was definitely different to what i’m used to reading because both Rook and Varga had already been together for five years and this book was basically navigating their relationship now that things started to get hard and more people started to look in. Both Rook and Varga were just so good together, I’m so happy they could both tell the world and things kept moving. I’m also happy that Kovac (the reporter) was respectful and had been ever since he first found out about Rook six years ago, so I’m happy he got to release his piece his way.
I’m intrigued by Kieran and Heath so I’m going to go back and read the first book. I also loved Varga’s relationship with Rafe (the rookie) and everything he was teaching him and I need August to come quicker so I can read his book.
It was definitely different to what i’m used to reading because both Rook and Varga had already been together for five years and this book was basically navigating their relationship now that things started to get hard and more people started to look in. Both Rook and Varga were just so good together, I’m so happy they could both tell the world and things kept moving. I’m also happy that Kovac (the reporter) was respectful and had been ever since he first found out about Rook six years ago, so I’m happy he got to release his piece his way.
I’m intrigued by Kieran and Heath so I’m going to go back and read the first book. I also loved Varga’s relationship with Rafe (the rookie) and everything he was teaching him and I need August to come quicker so I can read his book.
July 18, 2026
I definitely enjoyed this and would give it 4.5 stars rounded up.
Rhodes' style is still dry and sparse, but I really liked the relationship between Varga and Rook. They complement each other so well, and I felt like Rhodes really showed that. Plus, I still enjoy Rhodes' approach to hockey.
One niggle: That didn't work for me, but the rest was good enough that I just dismissed it, haha.
Rhodes' style is still dry and sparse, but I really liked the relationship between Varga and Rook. They complement each other so well, and I felt like Rhodes really showed that. Plus, I still enjoy Rhodes' approach to hockey.
One niggle: That didn't work for me, but the rest was good enough that I just dismissed it, haha.
June 25, 2026
FIVE YEARS; FIVE YEARS!!!
RHODES IS BACK IN FINE FORM WITH THIS BOOK.
I LOVED IT, AND ALSO FOUND MYSELF BEING A BIT OF A HYROCITE, AS I WAS LIKE WHOSE BUSINESS IS IT TO KNOW HOW PEOPLE/ATHLETES LIVE THEIR LIVES AND YET, I WANTED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT VARGA AND ROOK.
I THINK THIS WAS A GOOD EXAMINATION OF WHAT WE ARE WILLING TO DO FOR THOSE THAT WE LOVE AND YET, EVEN THOUGH WE LOVE SOMEONE, THERE IS A BREAKING POINT THAT CAN BE REACHED.
I LIKED THAT ROOK THAT HE WAS DOING A GOOD JOB OF HIDING THE RELATIONSHIP AND THEN IT TURNS OUT MORE THAN A COUPLE OF HIS TEAMMATES KNEW.
THIS IS A GREAT TEAM, SO SUPPORTIVE OF EACH OTHER AND I LOVE HOW THE MAIN CHARACTERS FROM THE PREVIOUS BOOKS KEEP SHOWING UP.
THIS WAS A QUICK READ, BUT A GOOD ONE.
I RECEIVED AN ARC FOR MY HONEST OPINION.
RHODES IS BACK IN FINE FORM WITH THIS BOOK.
I LOVED IT, AND ALSO FOUND MYSELF BEING A BIT OF A HYROCITE, AS I WAS LIKE WHOSE BUSINESS IS IT TO KNOW HOW PEOPLE/ATHLETES LIVE THEIR LIVES AND YET, I WANTED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT VARGA AND ROOK.
I THINK THIS WAS A GOOD EXAMINATION OF WHAT WE ARE WILLING TO DO FOR THOSE THAT WE LOVE AND YET, EVEN THOUGH WE LOVE SOMEONE, THERE IS A BREAKING POINT THAT CAN BE REACHED.
I LIKED THAT ROOK THAT HE WAS DOING A GOOD JOB OF HIDING THE RELATIONSHIP AND THEN IT TURNS OUT MORE THAN A COUPLE OF HIS TEAMMATES KNEW.
THIS IS A GREAT TEAM, SO SUPPORTIVE OF EACH OTHER AND I LOVE HOW THE MAIN CHARACTERS FROM THE PREVIOUS BOOKS KEEP SHOWING UP.
THIS WAS A QUICK READ, BUT A GOOD ONE.
I RECEIVED AN ARC FOR MY HONEST OPINION.
July 1, 2026
This was an emotional hockey romance built around a long-hidden relationship and two men trying to decide if they're finally ready to stop hiding. Rook and Varga's connection felt authentic, with years of shared history, quiet devotion and unspoken understanding making their relationship easy to believe.
I really enjoyed the balance between the romance and the hockey world, with the locker-room dynamics, supportive teammates and media pressure all adding to the tension without overshadowing the love story. Watching both men confront what they truly wanted for their future made for a satisfying emotional journey.
A heartfelt, character-driven romance with plenty of emotion, strong found-family vibes and a well-deserved happily ever after.
I really enjoyed the balance between the romance and the hockey world, with the locker-room dynamics, supportive teammates and media pressure all adding to the tension without overshadowing the love story. Watching both men confront what they truly wanted for their future made for a satisfying emotional journey.
A heartfelt, character-driven romance with plenty of emotion, strong found-family vibes and a well-deserved happily ever after.
July 5, 2026
Book 3 of Top Tier. While it can be read as a standalone for maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.
'Blind Spot is a secret relationship, teammates-to-lovers MM hockey romance featuring a long-term hidden relationship, forced coming out, found family, and a hard-earned happily ever after.'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and expertly drawn. Another great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Blind Spot is a secret relationship, teammates-to-lovers MM hockey romance featuring a long-term hidden relationship, forced coming out, found family, and a hard-earned happily ever after.'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and expertly drawn. Another great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2026
Declan has written an emotional love story, a romance set in the world of hockey.
He has two teammates who bond over clam chowder but strengthen their 'hidden relationship' during 5 years.
They chirp in the locker room and on road trips, nonstop, hiding a relationship that sustains each other while being closely scrutinized.
Off the ice they maintain separate households keeping to the closets they've carefully constructed.
But closets are confining...suffocating...and when it causes them to question wht they really want...
they come up with a plan which they can live with and be proud of.
And with a little help from their teammates and an old acquaintance...their future is set!
He has two teammates who bond over clam chowder but strengthen their 'hidden relationship' during 5 years.
They chirp in the locker room and on road trips, nonstop, hiding a relationship that sustains each other while being closely scrutinized.
Off the ice they maintain separate households keeping to the closets they've carefully constructed.
But closets are confining...suffocating...and when it causes them to question wht they really want...
they come up with a plan which they can live with and be proud of.
And with a little help from their teammates and an old acquaintance...their future is set!
July 2, 2026
A refreshing difference in the usual queer hockey romance plot - Rook and Varga have been together for 5 years, although in secret. However, they are still doing their best to prove the opposite, even thoughtwo team mates are together. They even have separate addresses despite living in the same house. Both are exhausted by the constant pressure and pretence, but Rook is still stuck in panic mode. There are clearly plenty of others in the "room" who knew and were supportive, but the MCs never realised. The title fit perfectly.
Thanks for the advance copy via Booksprout, I am happy to leave a voluntary review.
Thanks for the advance copy via Booksprout, I am happy to leave a voluntary review.
July 7, 2026
Blind Spot is a heartfelt, emotional MM hockey romance that kept me invested from beginning to end. Rook and Varga’s chemistry is undeniable, and their relationship feels authentic, tender, and deeply meaningful. I loved the contrast between who they are in public and who they are behind closed doors, which made their journey even more compelling.
The found family, emotional vulnerability, and hard-earned happily ever after made this a satisfying read. If you enjoy teammates-to-lovers romances with plenty of heart, hidden love, and memorable characters, Blind Spot is definitely worth picking up.
The found family, emotional vulnerability, and hard-earned happily ever after made this a satisfying read. If you enjoy teammates-to-lovers romances with plenty of heart, hidden love, and memorable characters, Blind Spot is definitely worth picking up.
August 3, 2026
Blind Spot delivers an emotional blend of hockey, romance, and the challenges of living authentically. Rook and Varga's relationship is built on years of banter, trust, and quiet devotion, making their chemistry feel both believable and deeply rewarding. The contrast between their public personas and private lives adds depth, while the threat of their secret being exposed raises the stakes without overshadowing the romance. Watching Varga find the courage to want more than a hidden relationship makes this story especially compelling. Heartfelt, character-driven, and packed with emotional tension, this is a satisfying read for fans of hockey romance and found family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blind Spot is the third book in the Top Tier series. This book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is the story of Rook and Varga who are hockey team mates. They have been in a secret relationship for five years. The blurb gives you a great idea of what to expect in the story. I loved the characters and world building that went into this book. There is so much between these two and you can feel it. I felt bad for both of them but loved watching them work through everything. The chemistry between these two is perfect. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
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