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Wingmen: A rivals-to-lovers MM hockey romance
Two wingers. One bet. The summer that changes everything.
Dustin Bennet used to be the fastest winger in the league. But at twenty-nine, with a busted knee, he has to slow down — and that's terrifying. Dustin wasn’t raised to quit. He was raised to win.
Which means twenty-one-year-old Elliot Rodriguez is going to be a problem.
Elliot just finished one of the most impressive breakout seasons on record, with a win that made every sports headline in the country: Elliot Rodriguez is the new Dustin Bennet.
Dustin isn’t taking that lying down. So when they wind up doing their off-season in the same city, Dustin proposes a bet: act as each others' wingmen through the summer. Highest body count when the season starts in September wins.
As the summer deepens, what started as rivalry becomes something else. And somewhere between the 2AM drinks and the 6AM workouts, they realize they’re more interested in each other than the bodies they’re counting.
But Dustin is hiding something that's getting worse by the week. And Elliot has buried a loss that makes what he’s seeing impossible to ignore.
Summer ends at Labor Day. What they’re building behind the closed door of Dustin’s apartment might not.
Wingmen is a standalone, dual-POV, rivals-to-lovers MM hockey romance featuring a gay/bi awakening, a recovery arc handled with emotional honesty, explicit open-door scenes, and a satisfying HFN.
CONTENT WARNING: substance abuse, grief
Dustin Bennet used to be the fastest winger in the league. But at twenty-nine, with a busted knee, he has to slow down — and that's terrifying. Dustin wasn’t raised to quit. He was raised to win.
Which means twenty-one-year-old Elliot Rodriguez is going to be a problem.
Elliot just finished one of the most impressive breakout seasons on record, with a win that made every sports headline in the country: Elliot Rodriguez is the new Dustin Bennet.
Dustin isn’t taking that lying down. So when they wind up doing their off-season in the same city, Dustin proposes a bet: act as each others' wingmen through the summer. Highest body count when the season starts in September wins.
As the summer deepens, what started as rivalry becomes something else. And somewhere between the 2AM drinks and the 6AM workouts, they realize they’re more interested in each other than the bodies they’re counting.
But Dustin is hiding something that's getting worse by the week. And Elliot has buried a loss that makes what he’s seeing impossible to ignore.
Summer ends at Labor Day. What they’re building behind the closed door of Dustin’s apartment might not.
Wingmen is a standalone, dual-POV, rivals-to-lovers MM hockey romance featuring a gay/bi awakening, a recovery arc handled with emotional honesty, explicit open-door scenes, and a satisfying HFN.
CONTENT WARNING: substance abuse, grief
342 pages, Paperback
First published July 28, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 4, 2026
3.5 stars, but I am rounding down because it's really hard to overstate how much I disliked Elliot.
It's a rivals-to-lover hockey romance, featuring Dustin Bennet - 29-year-old legend who has recently had a catastrophic injury, and the up-and-coming Elliot Rodriguez - 21-year-old Puerto Rican prodigy coming for his crown. The entire story takes place in the off season, where Dustin and Elliot run into each other at a fundraiser and then end up summering in the same city and hanging out. From Dustin's perspective, he is trying to mentor Elliot, whereas Elliot hero-worships Dustin very secretly but is kind of a dick to him in person. These two embark on this disgusting little competition to see who can sleep with the most women during the summer, and I found this abhorrent. The way Elliot in particular spoke about women and having sex with them made my skin crawl. I almost dnf-ed before 50% because I actually couldn't stand him. I persevered because I felt that there was a lesson coming. Like, I understand the sociocultural context of Elliot's behaviour, and that he is a 21-year-old idiot, but I never warmed to him. He was arrogant, labile, callous and childish, which is probably an accurate description of a lot of young men, tbh. Emotional immaturity-maxxing.
Dustin was a more measured character, even thought the idiot bet about hooking up was his idea. But he was a pretty thoughtful person actually. The fact that so much of this book is him being called old unironically at 29 was absurd though. He has his issues and hang-ups, but he was the more sympathetic character for me. Elliot blindsides him with a kiss one night, but he just rolls with it, goes from perfectly straight to blowing a dude with very little angst.
Speaking of kissing, these two had decent chemistry, but it was so hot and cold that I lost interest towards the end. I enjoyed the writing, it was funny and sharp. But I don't know, I don't think that I was ever really invested in them as a couple and it's because I think Dustin could do much better than Elliot. He was really a problem for me in this book!
When we get the third act, in which all is forgiven and harms are mended, there's obviously some redemption for both them, but this part felt very tell more than show. So I felt like I was left holding this HFN that I don't know what to do with.
It's a rivals-to-lover hockey romance, featuring Dustin Bennet - 29-year-old legend who has recently had a catastrophic injury, and the up-and-coming Elliot Rodriguez - 21-year-old Puerto Rican prodigy coming for his crown. The entire story takes place in the off season, where Dustin and Elliot run into each other at a fundraiser and then end up summering in the same city and hanging out. From Dustin's perspective, he is trying to mentor Elliot, whereas Elliot hero-worships Dustin very secretly but is kind of a dick to him in person. These two embark on this disgusting little competition to see who can sleep with the most women during the summer, and I found this abhorrent. The way Elliot in particular spoke about women and having sex with them made my skin crawl. I almost dnf-ed before 50% because I actually couldn't stand him. I persevered because I felt that there was a lesson coming. Like, I understand the sociocultural context of Elliot's behaviour, and that he is a 21-year-old idiot, but I never warmed to him. He was arrogant, labile, callous and childish, which is probably an accurate description of a lot of young men, tbh. Emotional immaturity-maxxing.
Dustin was a more measured character, even thought the idiot bet about hooking up was his idea. But he was a pretty thoughtful person actually. The fact that so much of this book is him being called old unironically at 29 was absurd though. He has his issues and hang-ups, but he was the more sympathetic character for me. Elliot blindsides him with a kiss one night, but he just rolls with it, goes from perfectly straight to blowing a dude with very little angst.
Speaking of kissing, these two had decent chemistry, but it was so hot and cold that I lost interest towards the end. I enjoyed the writing, it was funny and sharp. But I don't know, I don't think that I was ever really invested in them as a couple and it's because I think Dustin could do much better than Elliot. He was really a problem for me in this book!
When we get the third act, in which all is forgiven and harms are mended, there's obviously some redemption for both them, but this part felt very tell more than show. So I felt like I was left holding this HFN that I don't know what to do with.
September 21, 2026
2.75 Locking in on my reading challenge if you couldn’t tell x
August 31, 2026
2.5-3 stars. There were elements of the story that I enjoyed, but the rampant misogyny was excessive.
One of the main characters, Elliot, is a 21 yo hockey prodigy and the way he speaks about women was offensive. He was called out for it, and acknowledged by the end it wasn’t okay, but it didn’t feel like there was much growth there. It made it really hard to be invested in his character, especially when he threw out a homophobic slur as well.
It was very lust-forward and I didn’t feel like there was very much actual relationship development between the characters. They’d miscommunicate, avoid each other, hook up, and then do it over again.
I also found the concept of the “bet” pretty gross, nevermind the app they briefly used to log their exploits.
This book had a lot of potential, but I don’t think key issues were handled as well as they needed to be.
One of the main characters, Elliot, is a 21 yo hockey prodigy and the way he speaks about women was offensive. He was called out for it, and acknowledged by the end it wasn’t okay, but it didn’t feel like there was much growth there. It made it really hard to be invested in his character, especially when he threw out a homophobic slur as well.
It was very lust-forward and I didn’t feel like there was very much actual relationship development between the characters. They’d miscommunicate, avoid each other, hook up, and then do it over again.
I also found the concept of the “bet” pretty gross, nevermind the app they briefly used to log their exploits.
This book had a lot of potential, but I don’t think key issues were handled as well as they needed to be.
August 3, 2026
bruh. calling your partner “kid” and saying you feel like jeffrey epstein is just a bit much for me idk.
June 11, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars
Wingmen by Hailey Reaves completely stole my sleep—and I regret nothing! I was up all night reading because I simply could not put it down.
Elliot and Dustin are such unforgettable characters. Their chemistry feels natural from the very beginning, and I loved how well they balanced each other. Elliot is still struggling with the loss his family suffered the previous year, while Dustin is trying to navigate life after a hockey injury. Watching them support one another through their individual challenges made their relationship even more meaningful.
This book delivered the perfect mix of humor, heart, and emotion. The VooDoo Donuts scene is something I will never look at the same way again (iykyk!), and the whole “assuming the position” moment had me laughing out loud.
Hailey Reaves created characters that feel real and a story that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. If you love emotional romances with fantastic chemistry, memorable moments, and characters you’ll be thinking about long after the last page, this book is a must-read.
Go get this book—you won’t regret it!
Wingmen by Hailey Reaves completely stole my sleep—and I regret nothing! I was up all night reading because I simply could not put it down.
Elliot and Dustin are such unforgettable characters. Their chemistry feels natural from the very beginning, and I loved how well they balanced each other. Elliot is still struggling with the loss his family suffered the previous year, while Dustin is trying to navigate life after a hockey injury. Watching them support one another through their individual challenges made their relationship even more meaningful.
This book delivered the perfect mix of humor, heart, and emotion. The VooDoo Donuts scene is something I will never look at the same way again (iykyk!), and the whole “assuming the position” moment had me laughing out loud.
Hailey Reaves created characters that feel real and a story that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. If you love emotional romances with fantastic chemistry, memorable moments, and characters you’ll be thinking about long after the last page, this book is a must-read.
Go get this book—you won’t regret it!
August 9, 2026
This did not work for me at all. Elliott felt like a walking stereotype of a Puerto Rican man and it rubbed me the wrong way unfortunately
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emotional journey through self discovery, handling grief and addiction. Normalizing calling people out on their bullshit. And hot hockey guys ;)
September 22, 2026
What a derivative mess. This reads like a compilation of moments stolen from several MM fantasy romance novels.
It also commits the ultimate faux pas of a fantasy novel. The characters and situations aren't believable. Even within the fantasy world there has to be some reality. The men still have to read as people, not as AI creations.
It also commits the ultimate faux pas of a fantasy novel. The characters and situations aren't believable. Even within the fantasy world there has to be some reality. The men still have to read as people, not as AI creations.
August 23, 2026
CWs are not thorough enough for this book. This book contains consistent misogyny, that is only somewhat challenged later in the book and still overall ignored, internalized and external homophobia, including multiple on-page f-slurs, and probably more that I am forgetting.
This book had potential and I was interested in the concept. As I read, I saw so much potential in themes that ultimately just fell flat.
This book was just... not it. Do not recommend.
Thank you to the author + book tour host for the advanced copies.
This book had potential and I was interested in the concept. As I read, I saw so much potential in themes that ultimately just fell flat.
This book was just... not it. Do not recommend.
Thank you to the author + book tour host for the advanced copies.
August 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was an engaging reading, with well-written and solid chemistry between the MMCs.
I enjoyed Hailey’s writing style, and feel like she managed to balance emotion and humour brilliantly.
The main reason I didn’t rate this book quieter, was because some of the main parts of this did make me cringe a bit/feel a bit uncomfortable - in particular the ‘bet’ the MMCs had, and the way Elliot spoke about women. The end of the book did acknowledge that neither of those things were okay, but it didn’t really feel enough to redeem things for me.
Also IDK much about hockey/sports, but the way the book made it as if being 29 years old is literally ancient felt weird to me.
I did feel as though Hailey discussed addiction in a well-considered way. It felt respectful, whilst acknowledging the implications addiction can have on both the individual, and those around them.
This was an engaging reading, with well-written and solid chemistry between the MMCs.
I enjoyed Hailey’s writing style, and feel like she managed to balance emotion and humour brilliantly.
The main reason I didn’t rate this book quieter, was because some of the main parts of this did make me cringe a bit/feel a bit uncomfortable - in particular the ‘bet’ the MMCs had, and the way Elliot spoke about women. The end of the book did acknowledge that neither of those things were okay, but it didn’t really feel enough to redeem things for me.
Also IDK much about hockey/sports, but the way the book made it as if being 29 years old is literally ancient felt weird to me.
I did feel as though Hailey discussed addiction in a well-considered way. It felt respectful, whilst acknowledging the implications addiction can have on both the individual, and those around them.
August 25, 2026
4.8 stars??? 5??? i just finished this so here’s my yap! spoilers though
i listened to this on audio (thank you Librofm for the August influencer ALC copy!) and it was so addictive like being able to rest my eyes and clear my head listening to a story read aloud, i loved it. it was also something else hearing all the Spanish curse words and lots and lots of dirty talk in my ear but honestly? not as bad as i imagined listening to romance would be.
i was enjoying it a lot from the start because it was laugh out loud funny like i would pause and rewind just to laugh again. and while i was hesitant on the mentorship, because ive never been keen on romances where one of the MCs has bigoted views and has to have their mind changed by the other MC, i think it tied into the overall narrative really well towards the end, and honestly i have no notes for the development.
i was really worried about the drug addiction TW but im glad it did not Dustin managed to seek help before it got to that bad a state, although he’d already gone very far by travelling to Canada. and yeah it hit hard that he was of so much wealth and privilege to experience this wake up call, unlike people who buy drugs off the streets and are way more likely to OD or use unclean goods. i think this was really important and i appreciated how it tied into Elliot’s personal experiences and how they handled it in conversation. Elliot was obviously pissed when he found out and Dustin apologised and came clean but Elliot also knew not to blame himself (“i didn’t force you to take those drugs”); it was all very well done.
i liked that both Dustin and Elliot had room for improvement and how it was subtle too. like Elliot obviously was a young punk who didn’t really know how to treat women right and Dustin and clear feminist, but he had his own privileges to check and educate himself on at risk communities and what he could do for them. also through mentoring Elliot, Dustin had to face his hypocrisy in advising Elliot to do one thing and doing the other, since he frequently doesn’t do what’s good for himself either. i like that they both helped each other grow organically.
i also really appreciated how it touched on grief; how you never really “get over it” and instead learn to better live under it. no less the complications from loving and grieving a not-so-good person. i liked the secondary characters and the solace they offered, Elliot’s mom, Diego (and his sister drama), Jordan, and Elliot’s fwb (i blanked on her name SORRY i really like her).
and i’ve read a fair share of celebrity and sports romances (including queer ones ofc) but never has one been resolved as smoothly as this one. i love love love that it wasn’t the focus i mean we were so near to the end there wasn’t much left but im glad it didn’t blow up in their face yknow? we skipped 6 months and Elliot had already come out, which was so amazing like im SO proud of him, and then he accidentally kissed Dustin but Dustin accepted it too.
they managed to reunite very happily (and steamy whew) without a freak out and they also confessed in a very sweet way. “i can’t be your agent because… a conflict of interest. i think i’m in love with you.” no notes, i think this was really great and i especially loved the ending yeah the second half just kept getting better, and i already loved it from the start.
i listened to this on audio (thank you Librofm for the August influencer ALC copy!) and it was so addictive like being able to rest my eyes and clear my head listening to a story read aloud, i loved it. it was also something else hearing all the Spanish curse words and lots and lots of dirty talk in my ear but honestly? not as bad as i imagined listening to romance would be.
i was enjoying it a lot from the start because it was laugh out loud funny like i would pause and rewind just to laugh again. and while i was hesitant on the mentorship, because ive never been keen on romances where one of the MCs has bigoted views and has to have their mind changed by the other MC, i think it tied into the overall narrative really well towards the end, and honestly i have no notes for the development.
i was really worried about the drug addiction TW but im glad it did not Dustin managed to seek help before it got to that bad a state, although he’d already gone very far by travelling to Canada. and yeah it hit hard that he was of so much wealth and privilege to experience this wake up call, unlike people who buy drugs off the streets and are way more likely to OD or use unclean goods. i think this was really important and i appreciated how it tied into Elliot’s personal experiences and how they handled it in conversation. Elliot was obviously pissed when he found out and Dustin apologised and came clean but Elliot also knew not to blame himself (“i didn’t force you to take those drugs”); it was all very well done.
i liked that both Dustin and Elliot had room for improvement and how it was subtle too. like Elliot obviously was a young punk who didn’t really know how to treat women right and Dustin and clear feminist, but he had his own privileges to check and educate himself on at risk communities and what he could do for them. also through mentoring Elliot, Dustin had to face his hypocrisy in advising Elliot to do one thing and doing the other, since he frequently doesn’t do what’s good for himself either. i like that they both helped each other grow organically.
i also really appreciated how it touched on grief; how you never really “get over it” and instead learn to better live under it. no less the complications from loving and grieving a not-so-good person. i liked the secondary characters and the solace they offered, Elliot’s mom, Diego (and his sister drama), Jordan, and Elliot’s fwb (i blanked on her name SORRY i really like her).
and i’ve read a fair share of celebrity and sports romances (including queer ones ofc) but never has one been resolved as smoothly as this one. i love love love that it wasn’t the focus i mean we were so near to the end there wasn’t much left but im glad it didn’t blow up in their face yknow? we skipped 6 months and Elliot had already come out, which was so amazing like im SO proud of him, and then he accidentally kissed Dustin but Dustin accepted it too.
they managed to reunite very happily (and steamy whew) without a freak out and they also confessed in a very sweet way. “i can’t be your agent because… a conflict of interest. i think i’m in love with you.” no notes, i think this was really great and i especially loved the ending yeah the second half just kept getting better, and i already loved it from the start.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2026
Somewhere around 3.4. I did not enjoy this book as much as the previous one in the series it it had a lot to do with the topics it covered.
The banter between the leads Eliot and Bennet is great and I think that the age-gap between the couple is written really well here without giving them a problematic power dynamic. They both learn something from each other and grow a lot as people over the course of the novel. Their age also reflects in their struggles and how they deal with them. It was refreshing to see a character able to analyse and (somewhat) deal with his own emotions - and be a horrible mess in other aspects.
I also think that many of the topics it covered - drug addiction and homophobia - are handled quite well. It did never get too heavy or escalate too much (otherwise this would be a dni topic for me...) but it also did not shy away from the effect it had on people and how devastating it can be.
The misogyny on the other hand... Eliot really deserved a punch, but it left you conflicted and feeling really squicky since he was mostly fine to the women's faces. I don't think (m)any of them felt disrespected by him ... it's everything he did when not face to face with women in regards to women that was not as good. He did eventually somewhat figure it out (and gets called out) but its more like a tiny step into the right direction. Given all the other topics in this novel it's not that it did not fit... it's just that it felt that the author did not take enough time with this topic despite making it kinda central. It's also relevant for both characters though one of them is a lot more aware and hit with heavier realizations, I guess.
Despite this... the actual romance - bi and gay awakening - was handled pretty well. They both had some reasonable issues that made sense given the setting, but it did not take away from the fun they had with each other (or the anxiety).
I was not sure about the first 30-40% of the book but after that it really hooks you in. Will never forget the donuts.
Though the title drop in the previous novel was vastly superior - especially since it is related to their disgusting bet - yuck.
The banter between the leads Eliot and Bennet is great and I think that the age-gap between the couple is written really well here without giving them a problematic power dynamic. They both learn something from each other and grow a lot as people over the course of the novel. Their age also reflects in their struggles and how they deal with them. It was refreshing to see a character able to analyse and (somewhat) deal with his own emotions - and be a horrible mess in other aspects.
I also think that many of the topics it covered - drug addiction and homophobia - are handled quite well. It did never get too heavy or escalate too much (otherwise this would be a dni topic for me...) but it also did not shy away from the effect it had on people and how devastating it can be.
The misogyny on the other hand... Eliot really deserved a punch, but it left you conflicted and feeling really squicky since he was mostly fine to the women's faces. I don't think (m)any of them felt disrespected by him ... it's everything he did when not face to face with women in regards to women that was not as good. He did eventually somewhat figure it out (and gets called out) but its more like a tiny step into the right direction. Given all the other topics in this novel it's not that it did not fit... it's just that it felt that the author did not take enough time with this topic despite making it kinda central. It's also relevant for both characters though one of them is a lot more aware and hit with heavier realizations, I guess.
Despite this... the actual romance - bi and gay awakening - was handled pretty well. They both had some reasonable issues that made sense given the setting, but it did not take away from the fun they had with each other (or the anxiety).
I was not sure about the first 30-40% of the book but after that it really hooks you in. Will never forget the donuts.
Though the title drop in the previous novel was vastly superior - especially since it is related to their disgusting bet - yuck.
July 11, 2026
The content warning of this book opens with “This book contains, honestly, too much banter. Sorry about that.” And I’d like it noted that I loved the banter! It kept me engaged and flipping those pages.
Wingman is the second book in The League of Extraordinarily Gay Gentlemen, a rivals-to-lovers M/M Ice Hockey series. While there are brief mentions of previous characters you don’t have to have read Medaling, although I’d recommend it, but that’s just because I really enjoyed it too.
Wingman goes back and forth following Elliot Rodriguez (21), the new hot shot and Dustin Bennet (29), a hockey legend who is off with a major injury.
Elliot is secretly a big fan of Dustin and looks up to him as a hockey icon, but you’d never know that from their interactions, at first.
Dustin is off with a possibly career ending injury while news papers are spouting headlines calling Elliot the new Dustin. So that pre sets up a dynamic between them that leads into their behaviour on their first ever meeting in person at a charity event.
Both characters dealing with a lot. Dustin with his injury and career decisions. Elliot, for the sake of no spoilers I’ll just say, family troubles.
Neither of them are out as gay. One is purposely in denial and the other’s never had an inkling that were anything other than straight.
Both characters go through a lot of personal growth - thankfully, because they both start out brewing with toxicity. The whole Wingman bet the book is named after is gross, but hardly a part of the story as a whole.
I found myself disliking Elliot early on but he does redeem himself. And I came to be invested in both of their lives and was rooting for them both to find happiness by the end.
Hailey Reaves (spicy M/M romance) is the alter ego of Liz Shipton (spicy urban fantasy and sci-fi). And I think i’m fast becoming a big fan of Liz’s witty and heartfelt writing (and yes ‘spicy’ refers to the fact that there is A LOT of sexy times in her stories, hence they are probably not for you if you aren’t open to reading graphic sex scenes).
Reasons to read Wingman: the banter, for two sports bros going through gay awakenings, for dudes becoming more in touch with their feelings and trying to fix their problematic behaviour.
Wingman is the second book in The League of Extraordinarily Gay Gentlemen, a rivals-to-lovers M/M Ice Hockey series. While there are brief mentions of previous characters you don’t have to have read Medaling, although I’d recommend it, but that’s just because I really enjoyed it too.
Wingman goes back and forth following Elliot Rodriguez (21), the new hot shot and Dustin Bennet (29), a hockey legend who is off with a major injury.
Elliot is secretly a big fan of Dustin and looks up to him as a hockey icon, but you’d never know that from their interactions, at first.
Dustin is off with a possibly career ending injury while news papers are spouting headlines calling Elliot the new Dustin. So that pre sets up a dynamic between them that leads into their behaviour on their first ever meeting in person at a charity event.
Both characters dealing with a lot. Dustin with his injury and career decisions. Elliot, for the sake of no spoilers I’ll just say, family troubles.
Neither of them are out as gay. One is purposely in denial and the other’s never had an inkling that were anything other than straight.
Both characters go through a lot of personal growth - thankfully, because they both start out brewing with toxicity. The whole Wingman bet the book is named after is gross, but hardly a part of the story as a whole.
I found myself disliking Elliot early on but he does redeem himself. And I came to be invested in both of their lives and was rooting for them both to find happiness by the end.
Hailey Reaves (spicy M/M romance) is the alter ego of Liz Shipton (spicy urban fantasy and sci-fi). And I think i’m fast becoming a big fan of Liz’s witty and heartfelt writing (and yes ‘spicy’ refers to the fact that there is A LOT of sexy times in her stories, hence they are probably not for you if you aren’t open to reading graphic sex scenes).
Reasons to read Wingman: the banter, for two sports bros going through gay awakenings, for dudes becoming more in touch with their feelings and trying to fix their problematic behaviour.
June 20, 2026
This is the second book in this series and sometimes it’s not as good as book 1 but damn this one was just as good! We have Elliot and Dustin! Dustin is a bit older and Elliot is dubbed the new Dustin on the ice
Dustin hurt his knee so he was completing rehab on his knee and Elliot decided to stay in Portland on his off season
They start a sort of friendship and decide to be each others wingmen as a competition which of course is gonna be simple
They have complicated feelings for each other
Neither have been with men so it brings up difficult feelings
Both are dealing with grief and feelings about liking each other
Their first time when Elliot freaked out because of complicated feelings about his uncle made me so sad he wanted this but was worried about what his uncle would think
God when he said that awful word to Dustin and then Dustin spiraled my heart broke!
This book takes you through so many different emotions
You have to see Elliot deal with his feelings about his uncle and how he would feel about Elliot being gay and listening to his teammate spew awful hate
I love that Elliot showed up for Dustin even if he was mad about him doing the drugs like his uncle did
He listened and they talked through everything together
Even though this book had serious themes the spice was spicing! I loved that they did research and I will not be forgetting about the donut scene anytime soon! LOL
It was hard for Dustin to give up hockey but seeing him be so excited for Elliot was amazing
Elliot came out but Dustin wasn’t ready but when he went to Elliot’s game and Elliot kissed him it clicked he just clung on to Elliot I yelled so loud!
I love the little updates we got about Nick and Liam so I hope we get updates about Dustin and Elliot’s life in Tampa in the next book!!
Dustin hurt his knee so he was completing rehab on his knee and Elliot decided to stay in Portland on his off season
They start a sort of friendship and decide to be each others wingmen as a competition which of course is gonna be simple
They have complicated feelings for each other
Neither have been with men so it brings up difficult feelings
Both are dealing with grief and feelings about liking each other
Their first time when Elliot freaked out because of complicated feelings about his uncle made me so sad he wanted this but was worried about what his uncle would think
God when he said that awful word to Dustin and then Dustin spiraled my heart broke!
This book takes you through so many different emotions
You have to see Elliot deal with his feelings about his uncle and how he would feel about Elliot being gay and listening to his teammate spew awful hate
I love that Elliot showed up for Dustin even if he was mad about him doing the drugs like his uncle did
He listened and they talked through everything together
Even though this book had serious themes the spice was spicing! I loved that they did research and I will not be forgetting about the donut scene anytime soon! LOL
It was hard for Dustin to give up hockey but seeing him be so excited for Elliot was amazing
Elliot came out but Dustin wasn’t ready but when he went to Elliot’s game and Elliot kissed him it clicked he just clung on to Elliot I yelled so loud!
I love the little updates we got about Nick and Liam so I hope we get updates about Dustin and Elliot’s life in Tampa in the next book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2026
I’m kind of split on this one. On one hand, I think the growth these characters go through is inspiring and great to see, and on the other, I just think they’re really toxic and the misogynistic under- and overtones are a lot.
I just never really fell in love with Dustin or Elliot.
This being said, I think the themes of addiction and grief are really important ones, and those pieces of the story were stronger, in my opinion. I think the slow trickle of Dustin’s escalating issues with opioids is very realistic, and hits close to home. Anybody can fall into a dangerous hole.
The public kiss at the end was really cute, and I think the last bits of the story were pretty sweet. Some of the smut was good, and other parts made me want to crawl into a hole and die. No talk about fILLING BATHTUBS EW BRO.
I quite liked both Drew and Fatima, and kind of wish they both could’ve gotten a) more space to grow as characters and b) a respectful relationship or encounters with men that didn’t use them for a dick measuring contest.
Also I feel like Elliot’s internal misogyny isn’t really addressed as strongly as it should be. Yes, he realises it’s messed up, and he shares this opinion with Diego, but there could’ve been more, I think.
As I said, I don’t really know where I stand with this one, so a 2 is all I can really give it. Some parts were good, while others rubbed me entirely the wrong way.
Over all, I’d read the first book in the series, and skip this one.
I just never really fell in love with Dustin or Elliot.
This being said, I think the themes of addiction and grief are really important ones, and those pieces of the story were stronger, in my opinion. I think the slow trickle of Dustin’s escalating issues with opioids is very realistic, and hits close to home. Anybody can fall into a dangerous hole.
The public kiss at the end was really cute, and I think the last bits of the story were pretty sweet. Some of the smut was good, and other parts made me want to crawl into a hole and die. No talk about fILLING BATHTUBS EW BRO.
I quite liked both Drew and Fatima, and kind of wish they both could’ve gotten a) more space to grow as characters and b) a respectful relationship or encounters with men that didn’t use them for a dick measuring contest.
Also I feel like Elliot’s internal misogyny isn’t really addressed as strongly as it should be. Yes, he realises it’s messed up, and he shares this opinion with Diego, but there could’ve been more, I think.
As I said, I don’t really know where I stand with this one, so a 2 is all I can really give it. Some parts were good, while others rubbed me entirely the wrong way.
Over all, I’d read the first book in the series, and skip this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2026
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
It’s a rivals-to-lovers MM hockey dual gay awakening romance between 29 year-old Dustin Bennet, who used to be the fastest winger in the league, and 21 year-old Elliot Rodriguez, who just finished one of the most impressive breakout seasons on record. He’s even being called the new Bennet. They meet at a charity event and end up spending the summer in the same city.
The book deals with grief, substance abuse, homophobia, and imposter syndrome in a respectful way. Dustin and Elliot both have painful pasts and unresolved grief that affects their relationships. Both are afraid to be vulnerable with the other and it takes them a long time to trust each other and open up. When they do let their guards down, the couple are so cute together. They tease each other and create goofy nicknames. They bicker and banter together.
Other than a few references to it, the book doesn’t contain any hockey scenes, which was a bit disappointing. The first book in the series, Medaling, contained a lot of hockey, which I prefer. This is a fun series to read and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Kate Rock Literary Services and the author. All opinions are my own.
It’s a rivals-to-lovers MM hockey dual gay awakening romance between 29 year-old Dustin Bennet, who used to be the fastest winger in the league, and 21 year-old Elliot Rodriguez, who just finished one of the most impressive breakout seasons on record. He’s even being called the new Bennet. They meet at a charity event and end up spending the summer in the same city.
The book deals with grief, substance abuse, homophobia, and imposter syndrome in a respectful way. Dustin and Elliot both have painful pasts and unresolved grief that affects their relationships. Both are afraid to be vulnerable with the other and it takes them a long time to trust each other and open up. When they do let their guards down, the couple are so cute together. They tease each other and create goofy nicknames. They bicker and banter together.
Other than a few references to it, the book doesn’t contain any hockey scenes, which was a bit disappointing. The first book in the series, Medaling, contained a lot of hockey, which I prefer. This is a fun series to read and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Kate Rock Literary Services and the author. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2026
I was really looking forward to this read, I loved the concept but there just seems to have been some missing parts that I would have loved!
Now, I’m neither male or gay, but I think two “straight men” going down on each other so easily was a bit hard to swallow (lol). Surely there would have been more hesitance even with the foreplay!
Elliot was prepping himself with a toy and you hear about it once they attempt to have intercourse? Disappointing, that could have been hot!
After the first two intermit interactions, the author glosses over I think it was like a week of hook ups? Also, when they have sex the second time, another time period of sex is also super glossed over? Kind of lame
I feel like the foundation was just brought up right as the end and Dustin is now all for retirement? Needed some more behind that for me personally.
Also, Roddy as a nickname? Not it for me I’m sorry!
I really loved when Dustin was there for Elliot through his breakdown and wanting to drive him to appointments. Also, when Elliot supported Dustin after the Vancouver incident.
Overall, I really liked the concept and characters but there were definitely other moments where I was like uhhhh what did I miss!? Thanks for a good read!
P.s. If I have to hear about a 29 year old being considered old, I may just scream haha!
Now, I’m neither male or gay, but I think two “straight men” going down on each other so easily was a bit hard to swallow (lol). Surely there would have been more hesitance even with the foreplay!
Elliot was prepping himself with a toy and you hear about it once they attempt to have intercourse? Disappointing, that could have been hot!
After the first two intermit interactions, the author glosses over I think it was like a week of hook ups? Also, when they have sex the second time, another time period of sex is also super glossed over? Kind of lame
I feel like the foundation was just brought up right as the end and Dustin is now all for retirement? Needed some more behind that for me personally.
Also, Roddy as a nickname? Not it for me I’m sorry!
I really loved when Dustin was there for Elliot through his breakdown and wanting to drive him to appointments. Also, when Elliot supported Dustin after the Vancouver incident.
Overall, I really liked the concept and characters but there were definitely other moments where I was like uhhhh what did I miss!? Thanks for a good read!
P.s. If I have to hear about a 29 year old being considered old, I may just scream haha!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2026
Welp this was a book
My complaints: the pro trail of a Florida Puerto Rican 21yo was weird. I'm a Puerto Rican mother to a 18yo kid and I know the advice and conversation I have with them. Elliott's mother and are most likely the same age, she a teacher and I can't not believe she's never spoke to her son about condoms, smoking or respecting women. My mother spoke to my sister and I about these things (respecting ourselves). I will venture to say Uncle Sal also spoke to him about at least the condom thing g being that he had no children. Also, everyone seeking Elliott's ambitions and talent they would want him to misstep. I could understand the machismo and bottling thing up would have been a better focus cuz that parallels Dustin in a way. I didn't care for the arguments with Drew, adding all these things really took me out. It felt like "save the savage"
I wish instead of the above, I wish the author cover the prejudice and racism a dark skin Puerto Rican man would face in this environment. We all saw/ headed what ppls ideas about BadBunny. And he's not a player just a singer. Unfortunately, the author had some basis that's all I could see.
I finished the book and it was a nice story. If you came for representation this not the book.
My complaints: the pro trail of a Florida Puerto Rican 21yo was weird. I'm a Puerto Rican mother to a 18yo kid and I know the advice and conversation I have with them. Elliott's mother and are most likely the same age, she a teacher and I can't not believe she's never spoke to her son about condoms, smoking or respecting women. My mother spoke to my sister and I about these things (respecting ourselves). I will venture to say Uncle Sal also spoke to him about at least the condom thing g being that he had no children. Also, everyone seeking Elliott's ambitions and talent they would want him to misstep. I could understand the machismo and bottling thing up would have been a better focus cuz that parallels Dustin in a way. I didn't care for the arguments with Drew, adding all these things really took me out. It felt like "save the savage"
I wish instead of the above, I wish the author cover the prejudice and racism a dark skin Puerto Rican man would face in this environment. We all saw/ headed what ppls ideas about BadBunny. And he's not a player just a singer. Unfortunately, the author had some basis that's all I could see.
I finished the book and it was a nice story. If you came for representation this not the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book started a little bit slow but I liked "Medaling" so much I kept going through the beginning. Having read the content warnings at the very beginning, I had that in the back of my head as I was reading and trying to figure out how it will be applicable to this book. Basically every time someone talked about taking an ibuprofen, i panicked! Luckily, I also reminded myself that this is a romance novel so it will end happily.
Like "Medaling", this book is also well written and easy to read. I didn't find any continuity errors, which is always nice, and I was never confused about the plot. The conflict part of the book was definitely deeper than conflict in other books I've read, but was written in a way that didn't get me too sad about it.
Dustin is a champ for his insistence on consent and for teaching Elliot about it! These guys are a great couple and it was fun to read about them.
I'm so pleased that this book was my first ARC experience and I definitely recommended this book to anyone, hockey fan or not!
Like "Medaling", this book is also well written and easy to read. I didn't find any continuity errors, which is always nice, and I was never confused about the plot. The conflict part of the book was definitely deeper than conflict in other books I've read, but was written in a way that didn't get me too sad about it.
Dustin is a champ for his insistence on consent and for teaching Elliot about it! These guys are a great couple and it was fun to read about them.
I'm so pleased that this book was my first ARC experience and I definitely recommended this book to anyone, hockey fan or not!
September 4, 2026
Dustin is a 29 year old hockey player struggling with the possible end of his career due to injury spending the summer in Portland recovering. Elliot is the new hot shot 21 year old coming off his first amazing season feeling a little lots and needing direction. The pair meet for a random night kinda hit it off and start handout with a odd sexual tension that both are ignoring.
This pair win awards for the worst attempt at communicating one is terrible about doing it the other runs the opposite direction making it worse. There is a lot of residual pain due to unresolved issues and the need 'to be a man' and push down your feelings. This book went to some places that felt deep and difficult both made choices that made me squirm and wish they would just talk. Very compelling and makes recovery and reconnection so much better.
I feel like everything was a little rushed at the end. I would have enjoyed to see a little more of the pair together and how that would look in a domestic capacity. The end was beautiful I'm just greedy for wanting a little bit more.
This pair win awards for the worst attempt at communicating one is terrible about doing it the other runs the opposite direction making it worse. There is a lot of residual pain due to unresolved issues and the need 'to be a man' and push down your feelings. This book went to some places that felt deep and difficult both made choices that made me squirm and wish they would just talk. Very compelling and makes recovery and reconnection so much better.
I feel like everything was a little rushed at the end. I would have enjoyed to see a little more of the pair together and how that would look in a domestic capacity. The end was beautiful I'm just greedy for wanting a little bit more.
September 26, 2026
🏒🔥 Rivals, forced proximity, Olympic-level tension, and MM hockey romance? I was NEVER going to say no to this.
I went into the Medaling & Wingmen by Hailey Reaves, expecting top-tier hockey romance, but it gave me ALL the feelings. 😭🏒❤️
Here’s why you need these on your TBR:
🥇 Medaling: Declan Team USA’s intimidating enforcer + Cole who left the U.S. years ago, to live openly are rivals were forced to share an Olympic Village apartment. Six years of resentment, insane tension, media scrutiny, and high emotional stakes!
🏒 Wingmen: Dustin, a former superstar facing injury, + Elliot, the breakout star replacing him, turned their rivalry into a competition. Naturally, a questionable bet turns into deep emotional vulnerability, banter, and incredible chemistry.
Underneath all that sports swagger are incredible stories about identity, second chances, and figuring out who you are when life changes. Absolutely unputdownable! 🔥
📚 Thank you to Kate Rock Tours and Hailey Reaves for sharing these with me!
I went into the Medaling & Wingmen by Hailey Reaves, expecting top-tier hockey romance, but it gave me ALL the feelings. 😭🏒❤️
Here’s why you need these on your TBR:
🥇 Medaling: Declan Team USA’s intimidating enforcer + Cole who left the U.S. years ago, to live openly are rivals were forced to share an Olympic Village apartment. Six years of resentment, insane tension, media scrutiny, and high emotional stakes!
🏒 Wingmen: Dustin, a former superstar facing injury, + Elliot, the breakout star replacing him, turned their rivalry into a competition. Naturally, a questionable bet turns into deep emotional vulnerability, banter, and incredible chemistry.
Underneath all that sports swagger are incredible stories about identity, second chances, and figuring out who you are when life changes. Absolutely unputdownable! 🔥
📚 Thank you to Kate Rock Tours and Hailey Reaves for sharing these with me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is probably one of the most recent timeline books I have read in a while, so it was a little bit jarring at times to hear social commentary of events that we are currently living. However that level of reaction is very much appreciated as the way the characters evolve and express their own feelings of what we the reader is currently living are very well within the realm with possibility in reality.
The use of Spanish throughout the dialogue felt current and true to actual social norms and how it was used.
The storyline and the character arcs were intense at times. And the spice in the spicy scenes was very well written. I can’t wait for the next book!
(it is a shame that somebody has already opted to give this a one star review based simply on how it handled social discourse subjects regarding the NHL, hockey players, and our current government)
The use of Spanish throughout the dialogue felt current and true to actual social norms and how it was used.
The storyline and the character arcs were intense at times. And the spice in the spicy scenes was very well written. I can’t wait for the next book!
(it is a shame that somebody has already opted to give this a one star review based simply on how it handled social discourse subjects regarding the NHL, hockey players, and our current government)
October 5, 2026
Wingmen was a M/M Rivals to Lovers romance that had laughs and some serious eye opening drama. Check those trigger warnings. Dustin was at the top of his game as a Winger in the NHL until he messed up his knee. In skates Elliot who is young, fast and hungry to be the best. They are automatically rivals but there’s something more there. It went from Dustin being his rival to his mentor then to his lover. These two found themselves in unknown territory and had to learn together. I cackled during the donut scene. There is a bit of an age gap, which I really like. There were a couple things that I didn’t like but not enough to make me stop listening. I also enjoyed that Elliot was Puerto Rican, we need more Latino representation like this. Duncan Cole and Jesus E. Martinez did a great job bringing Dustin and Elliot’s banter to life.
July 31, 2026
Dustin and Elliott are rivals on the ice. When they meet at a fund raising event of course they have a friendly competition there too of who can get a girls number. When Elliott decides to spend the summer in Portland, where Dustin spends his, they become each other's wingmen. What starts out as a friendly competition of picking up girls turns into banter, sexy innuendos, and a bunch of confused feelings. I loved the development of their relationship as it wasn't straightforward and all rainbows and butterflies. There were times they were confused about what they were feeling, especially with the stigma about queer relationships in sports. I am definitely making time to read the first in this series because I loved this one so much. This is perfect for any hockey romance lover.
August 7, 2026
I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series, albeit that there's still obvious sections which mirror Heated Rivalry, this time its the 'What Colour?" scene (IYKYK 🤭) and the on ice kiss.
Dustin Bennett was the best hockey player in the world until he blew out his knee and young rival, Elliott Rodriguez, took the top spot.
When the two spend their summer in Portland, they strike up a tentative friendship, bar and bed hopping, working out and playing basketball together.
Everything changes when Elliott kisses Dustin after a night out and they both realise they're not as straight as they thought.
There's some trigger warnings for this book too, namely opioid addiction and homophobia. Also, the treatment of women by Elliott, in particular, is unpleasant.
Dustin Bennett was the best hockey player in the world until he blew out his knee and young rival, Elliott Rodriguez, took the top spot.
When the two spend their summer in Portland, they strike up a tentative friendship, bar and bed hopping, working out and playing basketball together.
Everything changes when Elliott kisses Dustin after a night out and they both realise they're not as straight as they thought.
There's some trigger warnings for this book too, namely opioid addiction and homophobia. Also, the treatment of women by Elliott, in particular, is unpleasant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2026
Ok so tbh there was a lot I did like here - I thought the chemistry between these two idiots was fun, and I thought some of the heavier topics were handled really well.
That being said, on no planet is a 29 year old hockey player (excluding the bum knee) nearing retirement! The average age of the Los Angeles Kings is 31! I mean granted they are an old ass team but the point stands that 29 is not retirement age for a exceptionally famous hockey player. I also found a lot of Elliot's toxic masculinity just totally unnecessary for the story.
So I guess it's like a 3.5 rounded down because I could have done with less annoying machismo. Treat women (and yourself) with respect!
That being said, on no planet is a 29 year old hockey player (excluding the bum knee) nearing retirement! The average age of the Los Angeles Kings is 31! I mean granted they are an old ass team but the point stands that 29 is not retirement age for a exceptionally famous hockey player. I also found a lot of Elliot's toxic masculinity just totally unnecessary for the story.
So I guess it's like a 3.5 rounded down because I could have done with less annoying machismo. Treat women (and yourself) with respect!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved the realness of this story. The characters and the trials that they go through in their personal lives shows a different side of trauma and of how easily addiction can take someone from themselves. It also does a good job of showing the stigma and homophobia that are present in the world and a major league sports. The way people have to hide their true selves. I like the depth of real life in this book a lot.
September 2, 2026
3.75
I picked this at random because it has some latinx representation, specifically Puerto Rican rep, and I have to say I really enjoyed this. I ducked one star because I thought some Puerto Rican stereotypes where a bit over the top. Also, I didn't appreciate the fact that one of the main characters called the other kid constantly, like the age gap was only 8 years and they were both in their 20s.
I picked this at random because it has some latinx representation, specifically Puerto Rican rep, and I have to say I really enjoyed this. I ducked one star because I thought some Puerto Rican stereotypes where a bit over the top. Also, I didn't appreciate the fact that one of the main characters called the other kid constantly, like the age gap was only 8 years and they were both in their 20s.
September 2, 2026
Cute story about an up and coming star in the NHL, Elliot, who meets his idol, Dustin, who's star is rapidly falling. In this bi and gay awakening there are some contentious problems to deal with, but the guys do get their HEA.
This one is pretty spicy, I'm giving it 🌶🌶🌶3/5 chilies on the spicy scale.
I listened to audiobook and it was great.
Dual narration, 2 narrators, 2 POVs, 3rd person
This one is pretty spicy, I'm giving it 🌶🌶🌶3/5 chilies on the spicy scale.
I listened to audiobook and it was great.
Dual narration, 2 narrators, 2 POVs, 3rd person
August 2, 2026
3.5+
Another stellar read by Hailey tbh. I really love her characters. It’s a light read that doesn’t take much brain power and it doesn’t exactly step on your neck with the feels, but little flutters instead. Super cute, very wholesome. Elliot and Dustin were adorable.
Another stellar read by Hailey tbh. I really love her characters. It’s a light read that doesn’t take much brain power and it doesn’t exactly step on your neck with the feels, but little flutters instead. Super cute, very wholesome. Elliot and Dustin were adorable.
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