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Relationship Goals #1
Tough Guy and the Show Off
Beau has been my right hand man on the ice for years, but this season I'm learning a lot of new things about his wrist shot.
We’ve been best friends since our rookie year. On the ice Beau is the tough guy, quick to slam any opponent into the boards so I'm free to show off with a goal. Off the ice, I'm his protector, his wingman, and the guy who's happy to speak for him when he's all done playing nice for the day.
We’ve roomed together hundreds of nights on the road, so I was bound to walk in on him cranking one out eventually. No big deal, we all do it. So why can’t I get the image of it out of my head now? The look on his face, the sounds he was making…
Chalk it up to mid-season stress and exhaustion, I guess?
And, hey, if we’re both going to be doing it anyway, no problem if we do it at the same time. We’re both only playing with our own sticks, right?
Neither of us are looking to be the token queer players in the league, but it’s getting harder and harder to deny that something is happening here.
Beau getting traded mid-season isn’t just going to screw up my game, it feels like a whole part of me has been ripped away. How are either of us supposed to get our heads around these feelings and still crush it on the ice?
If we can figure that out we might just have a scoring chance.
Tags: Wrist shots aren’t just on the ice, what’s a jerk off between besties, Show Off takes on a new meaning in private, the Tough Guy sure likes his cuddles, they’re a bonded pair, do not separate, no catching feelings allowed (spoiler: feelings will be caught) but wait, we’re straight guys. Do straight guys kiss? They do now.
We’ve been best friends since our rookie year. On the ice Beau is the tough guy, quick to slam any opponent into the boards so I'm free to show off with a goal. Off the ice, I'm his protector, his wingman, and the guy who's happy to speak for him when he's all done playing nice for the day.
We’ve roomed together hundreds of nights on the road, so I was bound to walk in on him cranking one out eventually. No big deal, we all do it. So why can’t I get the image of it out of my head now? The look on his face, the sounds he was making…
Chalk it up to mid-season stress and exhaustion, I guess?
And, hey, if we’re both going to be doing it anyway, no problem if we do it at the same time. We’re both only playing with our own sticks, right?
Neither of us are looking to be the token queer players in the league, but it’s getting harder and harder to deny that something is happening here.
Beau getting traded mid-season isn’t just going to screw up my game, it feels like a whole part of me has been ripped away. How are either of us supposed to get our heads around these feelings and still crush it on the ice?
If we can figure that out we might just have a scoring chance.
Tags: Wrist shots aren’t just on the ice, what’s a jerk off between besties, Show Off takes on a new meaning in private, the Tough Guy sure likes his cuddles, they’re a bonded pair, do not separate, no catching feelings allowed (spoiler: feelings will be caught) but wait, we’re straight guys. Do straight guys kiss? They do now.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 2, 2026
I kept waiting for something but nothing really happened?!
There was so much hockey compared to romance so the balance felt off. Add to that, they get separated due to a trade so spend months apart after just getting together. It just felt too disjointed and I wasn't invested enough in their relationship before the trade happened considering they'd literally JUST got together the night before, so it was hard to empathise when they were forced apart.
I think I actually needed a bit more angst, a bit less hockey, and a lot more relationship because I just wasn't all that bothered about either MC or their relationship. Seeing Diego and Callan again was nice though!
There was so much hockey compared to romance so the balance felt off. Add to that, they get separated due to a trade so spend months apart after just getting together. It just felt too disjointed and I wasn't invested enough in their relationship before the trade happened considering they'd literally JUST got together the night before, so it was hard to empathise when they were forced apart.
I think I actually needed a bit more angst, a bit less hockey, and a lot more relationship because I just wasn't all that bothered about either MC or their relationship. Seeing Diego and Callan again was nice though!
October 7, 2026
This was delightful. I was stressed out for a bit near the middle but that’s only because I’m an anxious bean. But the friendship between Beau and Trav was so wholesome. I loved them together so much.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another MM romance that absolutely nailed the friends-to-lovers trope.
Beau and Travis are besties and an absolute dynamic duo on and off the ice. Looking to relieve a bit of tension after a particularly difficult game, Beau doesn't realise that he isn't alone, and so poor Travis cops quite the eye full when he comes into their shared room. An oopsie daisy moment gets Travis's gears turning and he quickly realises... hey.. he kind of liked seeing that. It makes him start to wonder about other things too...
I just loved how you could really see the strong friendship that these two shared first and foremost. It was such as solid presence from the get-go and it made their progression into something more seem really organic and easy. Even though they were both stressing about what it was going to mean and all the other what if's that go along with change, they were putting each other first, being honest, communicating etc, and it was all just so wholesome.
Of course I started to get a little bit nervous right around the middle because everything was going a little too smoothly and everyone knows that if things seem too good to be true at the halfway point the p o o p is about to hit the fan...
If you want to see exactly what happens and find out how these two incredible green flags manage to make things work you're going to have to pick this one up and have a crack. It's well worth the read and the hard earned HEA that we get at the end.
A few of our favs from KM Neuhold's other series pop in this book as well, which was a lovely little surprise, and if you haven't read the gym himbo stories yet you're going to want to add them to your TBR after reading this one.
A great start to what is hopefully a nice long series. Can't wait for more, bring it on.
Beau and Travis are besties and an absolute dynamic duo on and off the ice. Looking to relieve a bit of tension after a particularly difficult game, Beau doesn't realise that he isn't alone, and so poor Travis cops quite the eye full when he comes into their shared room. An oopsie daisy moment gets Travis's gears turning and he quickly realises... hey.. he kind of liked seeing that. It makes him start to wonder about other things too...
I just loved how you could really see the strong friendship that these two shared first and foremost. It was such as solid presence from the get-go and it made their progression into something more seem really organic and easy. Even though they were both stressing about what it was going to mean and all the other what if's that go along with change, they were putting each other first, being honest, communicating etc, and it was all just so wholesome.
Of course I started to get a little bit nervous right around the middle because everything was going a little too smoothly and everyone knows that if things seem too good to be true at the halfway point the p o o p is about to hit the fan...
If you want to see exactly what happens and find out how these two incredible green flags manage to make things work you're going to have to pick this one up and have a crack. It's well worth the read and the hard earned HEA that we get at the end.
A few of our favs from KM Neuhold's other series pop in this book as well, which was a lovely little surprise, and if you haven't read the gym himbo stories yet you're going to want to add them to your TBR after reading this one.
A great start to what is hopefully a nice long series. Can't wait for more, bring it on.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
Neuhold and Monroe’s joint write in their new hockey series Relationship Goals. The premise of this sounds a little similar to Neuhold’s Jacked from the Gymbos series, though it’s just the initial push in the relationship change and it reads differently otherwise.
Sometimes the first book in a new series can take me a while to get into - the set up of the main and supporting characters, the feel of what it’s all about - and I admittedly did get a bit of that at the start. But once I settled in I was invested in these guys. At first I couldn’t see how the chemistry in their relationship was going to change until it did and I could barely put this down. The way Show and Bozy realise and accept each other and their sexuality and feelings pulled me in, and half way through there’s a situation that got me as worked up as the characters were and I had to remind myself to calm down - this happens in hockey.
I loved Trav and Beau’s dynamic and the care they had for each other even as friends. Big bulky Beau is just a teddy bear and Travis is the showster his surname suggests. They balance each other out and watching them understand the depth of their feelings is satisfying and sublime. If the books continue in this vein I reckon this’ll be up there with other big MM ice hockey series.
Callan and Diego are here from Neuhold’s Gymbos books and Henson and LaBelle from Monroe’s Crestvale Killers and upcoming Against the Boards. It was good to see a little more of them and Beau and Trav’s teammates also - I wonder whose stories are to come, there’s a few I’m definitely interested in.
This is my first co-write read for these two authors and it’s seamlessly done. There’s loads of ice hockey MM stories out there, you could think the market’s saturated, yet this has both a familiar and a fresh feel.
Bring on the rest of the Relationship Goal-ers.
I received an ARC, this is my honest review.
Neuhold and Monroe’s joint write in their new hockey series Relationship Goals. The premise of this sounds a little similar to Neuhold’s Jacked from the Gymbos series, though it’s just the initial push in the relationship change and it reads differently otherwise.
Sometimes the first book in a new series can take me a while to get into - the set up of the main and supporting characters, the feel of what it’s all about - and I admittedly did get a bit of that at the start. But once I settled in I was invested in these guys. At first I couldn’t see how the chemistry in their relationship was going to change until it did and I could barely put this down. The way Show and Bozy realise and accept each other and their sexuality and feelings pulled me in, and half way through there’s a situation that got me as worked up as the characters were and I had to remind myself to calm down - this happens in hockey.
I loved Trav and Beau’s dynamic and the care they had for each other even as friends. Big bulky Beau is just a teddy bear and Travis is the showster his surname suggests. They balance each other out and watching them understand the depth of their feelings is satisfying and sublime. If the books continue in this vein I reckon this’ll be up there with other big MM ice hockey series.
Callan and Diego are here from Neuhold’s Gymbos books and Henson and LaBelle from Monroe’s Crestvale Killers and upcoming Against the Boards. It was good to see a little more of them and Beau and Trav’s teammates also - I wonder whose stories are to come, there’s a few I’m definitely interested in.
This is my first co-write read for these two authors and it’s seamlessly done. There’s loads of ice hockey MM stories out there, you could think the market’s saturated, yet this has both a familiar and a fresh feel.
Bring on the rest of the Relationship Goal-ers.
I received an ARC, this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sinceramente, pensé que me iba a gustar un poco más! 🤭
Beau y Travis me gustaron mucho, la verdad no sabía qué esperar de ellos, pero disfruté un montón su historia. Siento que en algunas partes el ritmo decayó un poco, pero su dinámica y, sobre todo, su amistad me conquistaron por completo. Beau, sin dudas, se convirtió en uno de mis personajes favoritos porque logré conectar muchísimo con él 🥹💖.
Es una historia fácil y rápida de leer que flaquea un poco en el ritmo,pero que igual disfruté un montón!
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
Honestly, I thought I was going to love this a little bit more! 🤭
I really liked Beau and Travis—I didn't quite know what to expect from them, but I thoroughly enjoyed their story. I did feel like the pacing slowed down a bit in certain parts, but their dynamic, and especially their friendship, completely won me over. Beau hands down became one of my absolute favorite characters because I connected with him on such a deep level 🥹💖.
It’s an easy, fast-paced read that stumbles a bit with its pacing, but I still really enjoyed it overall! ✨
Beau y Travis me gustaron mucho, la verdad no sabía qué esperar de ellos, pero disfruté un montón su historia. Siento que en algunas partes el ritmo decayó un poco, pero su dinámica y, sobre todo, su amistad me conquistaron por completo. Beau, sin dudas, se convirtió en uno de mis personajes favoritos porque logré conectar muchísimo con él 🥹💖.
Es una historia fácil y rápida de leer que flaquea un poco en el ritmo,pero que igual disfruté un montón!
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
Honestly, I thought I was going to love this a little bit more! 🤭
I really liked Beau and Travis—I didn't quite know what to expect from them, but I thoroughly enjoyed their story. I did feel like the pacing slowed down a bit in certain parts, but their dynamic, and especially their friendship, completely won me over. Beau hands down became one of my absolute favorite characters because I connected with him on such a deep level 🥹💖.
It’s an easy, fast-paced read that stumbles a bit with its pacing, but I still really enjoyed it overall! ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm 100% a Showbeaut shipper. We love a best friends to lovers where you barely even remember the side characters because the MCs are so completely wrapped up in each other, and Monroe and Neuhold fully deliver that here!
Beau and Travis are completely known for their chemistry on the ice because they already have that relationship can read each other's minds with a look thing going on, and it just takes one inopportune hotel door opening for them to relize that chemistry might translate to so much more. I love that both of them pretty immediately wanted to try to find more reasons to keep exploring this new dynamic, there was really no convincing or struggling with it (even though they thought they might). It made for a very sweet, steamy, and low angst story!
And I actually really enjoyed the trading plot line! I feel like figuring that out is actually a very real part of being in a relationship with a professional athlete. Was the solution realistic? Probably not, but it sure was romantic!
Beau and Travis are completely known for their chemistry on the ice because they already have that relationship can read each other's minds with a look thing going on, and it just takes one inopportune hotel door opening for them to relize that chemistry might translate to so much more. I love that both of them pretty immediately wanted to try to find more reasons to keep exploring this new dynamic, there was really no convincing or struggling with it (even though they thought they might). It made for a very sweet, steamy, and low angst story!
And I actually really enjoyed the trading plot line! I feel like figuring that out is actually a very real part of being in a relationship with a professional athlete. Was the solution realistic? Probably not, but it sure was romantic!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This has my absolute go to of best friends to lovers with biawakening. I loved it. Beau and Show are perfect together and I love how deep their friendship was before it shifted. This is a perfect read for the start of the hockey season. This one is low Angst but so sweet and such an easy read.
October 6, 2026
I was very very excited for this... I haven't read a hockey romance in a while. I thought this was cute and a bit predictable especially toward the end, I basically knew what was going to happen.
I would be interested in reading book 2 though.
I would be interested in reading book 2 though.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
Beau and Travis are best friends, sometimes roommates, teammates, and together they are a force on the ice and play off each other well. Beau is the tough guy defenseman who lets Travis "Show" shine on the ice. Off the ice, Beau is the quieter, less social, protective teddy bear while Travis is the superstitious, golden boy, and center of attention. But together they are "ShowBeau-t" and magic. I just adored them and their friendship.
They’re just inseparable best friends and bros until one day Travis sees something he cannot seem to forget but makes things a bit awkward. So Travis takes it into his own hands to try to fix it.
And what if two bros wanna just let off a little steam together? They already do everything together, so it shouldn’t be that weird, right? But one thing leads to another, and these two seemingly straight guys are finding themselves in an unexpected situation. And when life gets a little bit more complicated, it makes things even messier and makes them realize that maybe there’s more to this than they thought.
This is a best friends, teammates-to-lovers, double bisexual awakening romance with two bros just hanging out together with secret activities.
I was not prepared for this book to sneak in and hit me so hard in the feels. It got to a point where I was really, really feeling for these guys, seeing how intense their connection is and how much they relied on each other, but then things got complicated. It really hurt my heart. But it also gave them opportunities for growth and to figure out what they really needed to be happy and what was most important to them. Once things got going, their physical chemistry was off the charts, and they had already had this very established personal friendship and were in sync on the ice as teammates as well. So the physical and eventually emotional component just added layers to an already strong bond.
I liked getting the little cameos from the Gymbos, and I’m looking forward to more in this series.
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Beau and Travis are best friends, sometimes roommates, teammates, and together they are a force on the ice and play off each other well. Beau is the tough guy defenseman who lets Travis "Show" shine on the ice. Off the ice, Beau is the quieter, less social, protective teddy bear while Travis is the superstitious, golden boy, and center of attention. But together they are "ShowBeau-t" and magic. I just adored them and their friendship.
They’re just inseparable best friends and bros until one day Travis sees something he cannot seem to forget but makes things a bit awkward. So Travis takes it into his own hands to try to fix it.
And what if two bros wanna just let off a little steam together? They already do everything together, so it shouldn’t be that weird, right? But one thing leads to another, and these two seemingly straight guys are finding themselves in an unexpected situation. And when life gets a little bit more complicated, it makes things even messier and makes them realize that maybe there’s more to this than they thought.
This is a best friends, teammates-to-lovers, double bisexual awakening romance with two bros just hanging out together with secret activities.
I was not prepared for this book to sneak in and hit me so hard in the feels. It got to a point where I was really, really feeling for these guys, seeing how intense their connection is and how much they relied on each other, but then things got complicated. It really hurt my heart. But it also gave them opportunities for growth and to figure out what they really needed to be happy and what was most important to them. Once things got going, their physical chemistry was off the charts, and they had already had this very established personal friendship and were in sync on the ice as teammates as well. So the physical and eventually emotional component just added layers to an already strong bond.
I liked getting the little cameos from the Gymbos, and I’m looking forward to more in this series.
October 12, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Tough Guy and the Show Off is the first book in the new Relationship Goals series by Mia Monroe and K.M. Neuhold. This is a friends-to-lovers, double bi-awakening that takes a bit of a different approach that I really enjoyed. The story starts off introducing us to Travis and Beau and their super close friendship. The authors do a nice job showing the bond the men have, though at times Beau’s feelings about Travis felt a bit too much like hero worship. But things are set up nicely to show the foundation of their friendship and deep connection.
I had a solid guess as to how things would shake out and I was not wrong, but even seeing things coming, I think this story resolves really well. I love the way Beau and Travis embrace their feelings for one another and the joy they have at realizing their best friend is also the person they are madly in love with. I found this one a great start to this series and it looks like the next book up should be interesting as well. I am looking forward to more.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Tough Guy and the Show Off is the first book in the new Relationship Goals series by Mia Monroe and K.M. Neuhold. This is a friends-to-lovers, double bi-awakening that takes a bit of a different approach that I really enjoyed. The story starts off introducing us to Travis and Beau and their super close friendship. The authors do a nice job showing the bond the men have, though at times Beau’s feelings about Travis felt a bit too much like hero worship. But things are set up nicely to show the foundation of their friendship and deep connection.
I had a solid guess as to how things would shake out and I was not wrong, but even seeing things coming, I think this story resolves really well. I love the way Beau and Travis embrace their feelings for one another and the joy they have at realizing their best friend is also the person they are madly in love with. I found this one a great start to this series and it looks like the next book up should be interesting as well. I am looking forward to more.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
October 2, 2026
_Scroll down for safety info_
4.25 ⭐️
This was very cute and honestly a bit more emotional than I thought it would be! It's mostly low angst though and I loved Beau and Trav's bromance turned romance. The beginning was a bit idiots to lovers similar to Jacked but make it hockey teammates, such a fun dynamic. I knew it was coming but the event at 40ish% still pulled at my heartstrings, how it all unfolded was beautiful though. It was so great to see Diego and Callan again too. I can't wait for the next book with Nikola and Berlin.
*Safety info (potential spoilers)*
- OP drama: in the beginning, after they've already started JO together but not actually fully hooking up yet (touching, kissing), Trav is hit on by a woman in a bar and while he has no real interest, it makes Beau jealous (but he doesn't really understand why) so he cockblocks him. Then a bit more into the book, after they start hooking up and after Beau is traded, another woman hits on Trav in a bar and he considers it for a second but realises that he doesn't want anyone but Beau. He tells Beau over the phone that same night and they agree to be exclusive. But nothing happens and there is no-one else for either of them after that.
- No third act breakup but Beau gets traded from Boston to Chicago in the second act before they've defined their relationship, they chat through it a couple days later and decide to be together.
- HFN
4.25 ⭐️
This was very cute and honestly a bit more emotional than I thought it would be! It's mostly low angst though and I loved Beau and Trav's bromance turned romance. The beginning was a bit idiots to lovers similar to Jacked but make it hockey teammates, such a fun dynamic. I knew it was coming but the event at 40ish% still pulled at my heartstrings, how it all unfolded was beautiful though. It was so great to see Diego and Callan again too. I can't wait for the next book with Nikola and Berlin.
*Safety info (potential spoilers)*
- OP drama: in the beginning, after they've already started JO together but not actually fully hooking up yet (touching, kissing), Trav is hit on by a woman in a bar and while he has no real interest, it makes Beau jealous (but he doesn't really understand why) so he cockblocks him. Then a bit more into the book, after they start hooking up and after Beau is traded, another woman hits on Trav in a bar and he considers it for a second but realises that he doesn't want anyone but Beau. He tells Beau over the phone that same night and they agree to be exclusive. But nothing happens and there is no-one else for either of them after that.
- No third act breakup but Beau gets traded from Boston to Chicago in the second act before they've defined their relationship, they chat through it a couple days later and decide to be together.
- HFN
October 3, 2026
This was a very enjoyable read! I love a best friends to lovers story and this one does not disappoint. Beau and Travis are best friends and teammates, playing for the Boston Magic hockey team. I loved the little moment that started their awakenings and how it all played out. The move from best friends to lovers felt natural and like just an extension of their friendship. Beau getting traded helped them make some decisions and kicked them into gear when it came to their relationship.
I really enjoyed the banter and I giggled quite a bit while reading this. I loved all of the side characters and I'm excited to see who else is going to get a book.
If you like best friends to lovers stories, where they are also teammates and oblivious to what they are doing, then this is the book for you. It has funny moments, hockey, heat and some sweet moments as well.
I really enjoyed the banter and I giggled quite a bit while reading this. I loved all of the side characters and I'm excited to see who else is going to get a book.
If you like best friends to lovers stories, where they are also teammates and oblivious to what they are doing, then this is the book for you. It has funny moments, hockey, heat and some sweet moments as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ugh! You can never go wrong with a K.M. Neuhold book, especially with Mia Monroe on board. **Chef's kiss!**
While I'm not typically a huge fan of the Friends-to-Lovers trope, these talented authors crafted a story where the main characters see beyond their rose-colored glasses. One character unexpectedly walks in while the other is trying to relax, and both are eager to navigate the awkwardness in their friendship.
I adore how they experience a mutual bi-awakening, leading them to rediscover their love for one another.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
While I'm not typically a huge fan of the Friends-to-Lovers trope, these talented authors crafted a story where the main characters see beyond their rose-colored glasses. One character unexpectedly walks in while the other is trying to relax, and both are eager to navigate the awkwardness in their friendship.
I adore how they experience a mutual bi-awakening, leading them to rediscover their love for one another.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Simple, low-angst best friends to lovers romance. I enjoyed Beau and Show slowly realizing that they were in love with each other. It was fun and steamy. A little swoony and super cute. Got to see Diego and Callan again in Chicago as well.
October 4, 2026
Fantastic!!! Absolutely loved Beau and Travis together. They’ve got a fantastic friendship and their falling in love was so well done. Truly loved every second of this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book! They were so much fun to read! I love a good friends to lovers and this one was everything I love in a good romance! Seriously a must read in my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐️
These two authors are such a great duo, and they did a great job writing this short and sweet hockey romance!
Show and Beau are best friends and an amazing duo on the ice. They love being on the same team, and even live across the hall from each other. But what is the guy to do when he walks in on his bro jerking it? Well, you gotta make sure it doesn’t get weird, so of course you’ve gotta offer to jerk it in front of him as well!
This MM hockey romance will give you:
-teammates & besties
-double green flags
-double bi-awakening
-cameos from other series’ characters
These two characters were really sweet, and they found themselves in some pretty precarious situations. I thought this book was a really great easy and light read. I could definitely see some small references to other well known MM hockey books out there, which was cute too!
This is the perfect kind of book to pick up when you want to read something quick and cute!
These two authors are such a great duo, and they did a great job writing this short and sweet hockey romance!
Show and Beau are best friends and an amazing duo on the ice. They love being on the same team, and even live across the hall from each other. But what is the guy to do when he walks in on his bro jerking it? Well, you gotta make sure it doesn’t get weird, so of course you’ve gotta offer to jerk it in front of him as well!
This MM hockey romance will give you:
-teammates & besties
-double green flags
-double bi-awakening
-cameos from other series’ characters
These two characters were really sweet, and they found themselves in some pretty precarious situations. I thought this book was a really great easy and light read. I could definitely see some small references to other well known MM hockey books out there, which was cute too!
This is the perfect kind of book to pick up when you want to read something quick and cute!
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 22, 20264⭐️
3🌶️
REVIEW: Travis Showalter and Beau Bozeman play pro hockey for Boston and together they are “Show-Beau-t”. They are best friends and each others ride or die. They compliment each other perfectly with Beau defending Travis on the ice and Travis stepping in when things get too loud for Beau off the ice. They play seamlessly together, that is until Travis walks in on Beau pleasuring himself with his fingers up his ass. From there things, get a little bit weird. Their chemistry in the next game is off and Beau worries that Travis is judging him or thinks he’s gay.Travis however, can’t get the image out of his mind.
In order to get their friendship back on track, Travis suggests they watch each other jerk off too even the playing field. The one off become part of their pregame ritual when their next few games of the phenomenal.
Just when Show and Bozy think this could be the start something more than friendship, Beau gets traded and it blindsides them completely. What happens now? Their fledgling romance a surely too new to survive long distance, is this the end of their friendship?
What I really loved about this book was its simplicity. Just two men falling in love. No breakup, no backstory, just two friends discovering their person was right there all along. It’s a spicy, sweet read that just leaves you feeling good.
3🌶️
REVIEW: Travis Showalter and Beau Bozeman play pro hockey for Boston and together they are “Show-Beau-t”. They are best friends and each others ride or die. They compliment each other perfectly with Beau defending Travis on the ice and Travis stepping in when things get too loud for Beau off the ice. They play seamlessly together, that is until Travis walks in on Beau pleasuring himself with his fingers up his ass. From there things, get a little bit weird. Their chemistry in the next game is off and Beau worries that Travis is judging him or thinks he’s gay.Travis however, can’t get the image out of his mind.
In order to get their friendship back on track, Travis suggests they watch each other jerk off too even the playing field. The one off become part of their pregame ritual when their next few games of the phenomenal.
Just when Show and Bozy think this could be the start something more than friendship, Beau gets traded and it blindsides them completely. What happens now? Their fledgling romance a surely too new to survive long distance, is this the end of their friendship?
What I really loved about this book was its simplicity. Just two men falling in love. No breakup, no backstory, just two friends discovering their person was right there all along. It’s a spicy, sweet read that just leaves you feeling good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First in series (Relationship Goals). Best friends to lovers. Teammates. Found family. Dual POV.
Beau and Travis do everything together, best friends and hockey teammates, they even live across the hall from each other. When a little stress relief leads to a recurring pre-game ritual and then feelings, everything starts to make sense, until Beau is traded and neither man is willing to let go.
This story was a really good best friends to lovers romance because it was made clear how close and meaningful Beau and Travis were to each other as friends. The joint sexual discovery and growing intimacy was steamy and I really enjoyed how both Beau and Travis embraced the attraction and didn’t hesitate to let their strong friendship fall into romantic feelings. Both Beau and Travis are likable, sweet, fun, and make the other a priority as friends and lovers. There were tons of supportive secondary characters, with some hockey and a hurdle to overcome, this was a really entertaining start to a new series. 4.5 rounded up
Beau and Travis do everything together, best friends and hockey teammates, they even live across the hall from each other. When a little stress relief leads to a recurring pre-game ritual and then feelings, everything starts to make sense, until Beau is traded and neither man is willing to let go.
This story was a really good best friends to lovers romance because it was made clear how close and meaningful Beau and Travis were to each other as friends. The joint sexual discovery and growing intimacy was steamy and I really enjoyed how both Beau and Travis embraced the attraction and didn’t hesitate to let their strong friendship fall into romantic feelings. Both Beau and Travis are likable, sweet, fun, and make the other a priority as friends and lovers. There were tons of supportive secondary characters, with some hockey and a hurdle to overcome, this was a really entertaining start to a new series. 4.5 rounded up
October 3, 2026
Alright, I'll be honest, this book didn't grab my attention right away in the beginning. It felt a little clunky to me and was difficult for me to get invested in the characters. However, as the story progressed and as time went on, I started enjoying the story a lot more.
I think Trav and Beau are a little clueless at first about their feelings for each other, but that just made their whole dynamic more adorable. I will say I wish there was less focus on the steamy moments, and more focus on them having date nights or something along those lines, because when those moments happened I loved reading about it. Like them exploring Chicago, or when they made dinner together and watched a show, those scenes were cute and I loved those moments.
Having said that though, I still thought this story was good, the hockey talk was really intense and detailed, those that love hockey are really going to love this book! All in all, a good hockey romance featuring friends to lovers, long distance relationships, and two bi guys who takes a minute to realize their feelings.
I think Trav and Beau are a little clueless at first about their feelings for each other, but that just made their whole dynamic more adorable. I will say I wish there was less focus on the steamy moments, and more focus on them having date nights or something along those lines, because when those moments happened I loved reading about it. Like them exploring Chicago, or when they made dinner together and watched a show, those scenes were cute and I loved those moments.
Having said that though, I still thought this story was good, the hockey talk was really intense and detailed, those that love hockey are really going to love this book! All in all, a good hockey romance featuring friends to lovers, long distance relationships, and two bi guys who takes a minute to realize their feelings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: sport romance, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, close proximity, sexual discovery
A very cute and sweet read with great best friends to lovers, confusing feelings and exploring together!
I really enjoyed this romance - the friendship between Trav and Beau was solid and well established, and seeing them trying to figure out the new, unexpected feelings they had for each other was both sweet and entertaining. Once they got over the initial awkwardness, they were pretty invincible on the ice and played incredibly well together.
The authors did a great job at portraying the mutual attraction between Trav and Beau, and the confused feelings it brought along with it. Neither of them had been attracted to a guy before, and while it might have started by accident, they were quick to explore more together. I loved seeing their friendship turn into more, they were good at communicating and it was obvious how much their friendship meant to both of them. They cared deeply for each other, and their relationship development was heartwarming and wholesome to read.
It might have been a little naïve of me, but it seemed like a pretty straightforward story at first, so I didn't expect the pinch of angst and turn of events. Trav and Beau were both shocked and confused by the news, and it was honestly heartbreaking to see them trying to come to terms with what was happening and the new realities of their futures. Suddenly their HEA was a little more hard earned than I thought it would be…
Tough Guy and the Show Off was a fantastic series starter and I loved that I got to see more of the Huskies! Trav and Beau's story had a lot of tropes that are like catnip to me, like friends to lovers and double sexual discovery, and it ended up being a little treat to read! A bit angstier than I first thought, but the romance was overall heartwarming and charming.
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: sport romance, MM
Tropes / tags: friends to lovers, close proximity, sexual discovery
A very cute and sweet read with great best friends to lovers, confusing feelings and exploring together!
I really enjoyed this romance - the friendship between Trav and Beau was solid and well established, and seeing them trying to figure out the new, unexpected feelings they had for each other was both sweet and entertaining. Once they got over the initial awkwardness, they were pretty invincible on the ice and played incredibly well together.
The authors did a great job at portraying the mutual attraction between Trav and Beau, and the confused feelings it brought along with it. Neither of them had been attracted to a guy before, and while it might have started by accident, they were quick to explore more together. I loved seeing their friendship turn into more, they were good at communicating and it was obvious how much their friendship meant to both of them. They cared deeply for each other, and their relationship development was heartwarming and wholesome to read.
It might have been a little naïve of me, but it seemed like a pretty straightforward story at first, so I didn't expect the pinch of angst and turn of events. Trav and Beau were both shocked and confused by the news, and it was honestly heartbreaking to see them trying to come to terms with what was happening and the new realities of their futures. Suddenly their HEA was a little more hard earned than I thought it would be…
Tough Guy and the Show Off was a fantastic series starter and I loved that I got to see more of the Huskies! Trav and Beau's story had a lot of tropes that are like catnip to me, like friends to lovers and double sexual discovery, and it ended up being a little treat to read! A bit angstier than I first thought, but the romance was overall heartwarming and charming.
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 21, 2026
Best friends, teammates and neighbours, two bros who do everything together.. and I do mean everything. These two were so much fun from the very first chapter! With a surprising amount of actual hockey, and a little bit of angst and longing.. I really enjoyed this one and I can’t wait for what’s to come for the rest of the series!
I always have a great time when KM and Mia get together, and this book was no different! I absolutely ate up every single word of this story and although it made me sad at times, I always know that HEA is guaranteed.
It’s been a hot minute since I’ve read a hockey romance and I really did miss the travel, the hotel rooms, the banter, the camaraderie, and just big tough bros doing big tough bro things. This series is going to be so fun! I loved seeing Diego and Callan again as well and I hope all these characters will continue to show up throughout!
I always have a great time when KM and Mia get together, and this book was no different! I absolutely ate up every single word of this story and although it made me sad at times, I always know that HEA is guaranteed.
It’s been a hot minute since I’ve read a hockey romance and I really did miss the travel, the hotel rooms, the banter, the camaraderie, and just big tough bros doing big tough bro things. This series is going to be so fun! I loved seeing Diego and Callan again as well and I hope all these characters will continue to show up throughout!
September 21, 2026
Yes yes yessss
These two authors together is always going to be special, but this series just hits so good. First of all I already love a pining beat friends to lovers “let’s just make this friendship even better” vibe. Bozy and Show were hot af together but also had such a strong foundation of care and friendship that it truly felt like the next logical step when they got together. I actually liked the bit of light angst and showing how fickle professional sports can be. The distance was done exceptionally well!
One of KMs super powers I’ve noticed in the past is subtly but decisively introducing a cast of characters that’s makes me keep coming back for more. This was no exception! I can’t wait for more!!
Mia and KM are an absolute powerhouse team and it’s a good day anytime they come out with something together! Keep writing yall cuz I’mma keep eating it right up!
These two authors together is always going to be special, but this series just hits so good. First of all I already love a pining beat friends to lovers “let’s just make this friendship even better” vibe. Bozy and Show were hot af together but also had such a strong foundation of care and friendship that it truly felt like the next logical step when they got together. I actually liked the bit of light angst and showing how fickle professional sports can be. The distance was done exceptionally well!
One of KMs super powers I’ve noticed in the past is subtly but decisively introducing a cast of characters that’s makes me keep coming back for more. This was no exception! I can’t wait for more!!
Mia and KM are an absolute powerhouse team and it’s a good day anytime they come out with something together! Keep writing yall cuz I’mma keep eating it right up!
October 5, 2026
An absolute joy to read! A great start to a new series. Trav and Beau are fantastic characters! Best friends forever and teammates on the ice, these two have a very strong connection and they definitely have the chemistry to become more. I love how low angst this story was as far as the double bi-awakening and also how easily everyone accepted their relationship. These two didn’t bat an eye when they realized there was more than friendship between them. So much love shown through in this story which was so sweet! These guys just stole my heart! A very entertaining and enjoyable story that I highly recommend!
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October 6, 2026This was not good. If I'm being generous I would say the authors got swept up in hockey romance due to the past year in pop culture and thought it would be fun to try their hands at it as friends. If I'm being cynical I'd call it jumping on a bandwagon. I don't even care that the plot is exactly like 100 other m/m hockey romances, there's only so many ways to write them, but the characters are basically stick figures with hot bodies. There's zero development, either as individuals or as a couple. Yawn.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Best friends and teammates, Beau and Travis do everything together but when Trav walks in on Beau having some solo time something shifts and is awkward.
So he suggests Beau watching his solo time to even the score.. then suggests they keep doing it since they won their game the next day..
But it seems neither can stop think about this new physical side to their relationship - until an ill timed trade makes them really work for it.
Just loved this, was so sweet and hot and just a fabulous read!
So he suggests Beau watching his solo time to even the score.. then suggests they keep doing it since they won their game the next day..
But it seems neither can stop think about this new physical side to their relationship - until an ill timed trade makes them really work for it.
Just loved this, was so sweet and hot and just a fabulous read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beau and Trav have been besties and teammates for several years now. They even have their own ship name (not that they know what that it, lol.) Their antics on the ice make them a dynamic pair. But one night on a roadie changes everything for them. And OMG!!! I was so engrossed in this book I completely ignored the football games, which is unheard of!! I love the little dash of the Gymbros universe, and I can't wait for more of this series!!
October 2, 2026
Love this new series with Mia & KM. Best friends turned lovers is always a fav, and hockey teammates make it all the more fun.
It’s relatively low angst, but so much fun, and sweetly tender at times too. Walking into some solo hotel room fun, leads them down a path of awkward but sweet exploration, and so much more.
There are some great teammates too, which add to the whole story, and make you excited to get more of them all.
Mia & KM are a great writing duo in contemporary and paranormal, so i’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
It’s relatively low angst, but so much fun, and sweetly tender at times too. Walking into some solo hotel room fun, leads them down a path of awkward but sweet exploration, and so much more.
There are some great teammates too, which add to the whole story, and make you excited to get more of them all.
Mia & KM are a great writing duo in contemporary and paranormal, so i’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a sweet, low-angst friends to lovers story with double bi-awakening. There was some yearning but Beau and Show communicated well throughout the early relationship for issues not becoming too big.
They were sweet, fun, and hot together.
Definitely looking forward to the next installment on the series.
They were sweet, fun, and hot together.
Definitely looking forward to the next installment on the series.
Review of advance copy received from Autore
K.M and Mia are amazing together. I just know that every time I pick up a co-written book of theirs, it's going to be so good. This time, it makes no difference. I liked Beau and Show (Trav), their chemistry and how they were so cool about their iwn discovery. Trav, once again, showed how love is stronger than anything else.
I really appreciated all the cameos.
And I'm ready for the next installment of the series 😊
I was gifted an ARC and this is my honest review.
I really appreciated all the cameos.
And I'm ready for the next installment of the series 😊
I was gifted an ARC and this is my honest review.
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