What do you think?
Rate this book
Owatonna U Hockey #1
Ryker
This New Adult book is the first in the Owatonna U Series, a spin-off from the best selling Harrisburg Railers Hockey Series.
Ryker is hockey royalty, Jacob is a poor country boy. Can two vastly different people find common ground and become the men they want to be?
Ryker comes from a long line of championship-winning hockey players. Playing college hockey to develop his game is his only focus, and nothing will stand in the way of him working to become the best player. He has no room for relationships, people who point out his flaws, or anyone who calls him on his dreams. He certainly has no place for love, and meeting Jacob is nothing but a useful distraction on the side. After all trying to get his Owatonna Eagles teammate into bed is less work and more play. When tragedy rocks his family, his charmed life crumbles, and the only person he can turn to is the same one who claims to hate him.
Jacob Benson has only known hard work and stifling conservative values his whole life. Born and raised in the small rural community of Eden Crossing, Minnesota, he’s the only son of a hard-working but struggling dairy farming family. Jacob is using his skills in hockey to finance his way to an agricultural science degree. These four years at Owatonna U. will probably be the only time he has to enjoy life, gain acceptance about his sexuality, and live openly before his inevitable return to the farm. Running into a pretty rich boy like Ryker Madsen is putting a damper on his enjoyment of life away from home. Ryker’s flip, conceited, carefree attitude grates on Jacob’s every nerve. So why, if Ryker is everything he dislikes, does he want nothing more than to explore the sinful dreams that his annoying teammate stars in every night?
Ryker is hockey royalty, Jacob is a poor country boy. Can two vastly different people find common ground and become the men they want to be?
Ryker comes from a long line of championship-winning hockey players. Playing college hockey to develop his game is his only focus, and nothing will stand in the way of him working to become the best player. He has no room for relationships, people who point out his flaws, or anyone who calls him on his dreams. He certainly has no place for love, and meeting Jacob is nothing but a useful distraction on the side. After all trying to get his Owatonna Eagles teammate into bed is less work and more play. When tragedy rocks his family, his charmed life crumbles, and the only person he can turn to is the same one who claims to hate him.
Jacob Benson has only known hard work and stifling conservative values his whole life. Born and raised in the small rural community of Eden Crossing, Minnesota, he’s the only son of a hard-working but struggling dairy farming family. Jacob is using his skills in hockey to finance his way to an agricultural science degree. These four years at Owatonna U. will probably be the only time he has to enjoy life, gain acceptance about his sexuality, and live openly before his inevitable return to the farm. Running into a pretty rich boy like Ryker Madsen is putting a damper on his enjoyment of life away from home. Ryker’s flip, conceited, carefree attitude grates on Jacob’s every nerve. So why, if Ryker is everything he dislikes, does he want nothing more than to explore the sinful dreams that his annoying teammate stars in every night?
196 pages, ebook
First published September 22, 2018
208 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,711 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
October 23, 2019
HOCKEY!!!! What else is there to say?!
Here’s a nooner of a review for you:
I liked the storyline—HOCKEY! But....I didn’t like the constant push pull one of the MC’s, Jacob, kept throwing. How Ryker could keep coming back to him after Jacob being so mean is a mystery.
Good thing for Jacob that Ryker didn’t give up because this one ends in a HFN.
This was my first RJ Scott book and I will continue with the series now that they are in KU!
Here’s a nooner of a review for you:
I liked the storyline—HOCKEY! But....I didn’t like the constant push pull one of the MC’s, Jacob, kept throwing. How Ryker could keep coming back to him after Jacob being so mean is a mystery.
Good thing for Jacob that Ryker didn’t give up because this one ends in a HFN.
This was my first RJ Scott book and I will continue with the series now that they are in KU!
October 6, 2018
This one's a spin-off from the authors series 'The Harrisburg Railers' and damn did they get things off to a good start. Full review to follow soonish!
If you’ve a fan of and have read ‘The Harrisburg Railers’ series...
than you know who Ryker is and at the very least can probably skip the rest of this paragraph. If you’re not you can probably still read this book and not feel lost but honestly, I think you’ll enjoy it even more if you’ve read the series or at least the first book which has Ryker’s father, Jared Madsen as one of the MC’s along with Jared’s partner Tennant Rowe. We’ve gotten glimpses of Ryker here and there throughout the series but nowhere more than ‘Changing Lines’, book 1 of the Harrisburg Railers and now here in his own book.
Not only is Ryker the son of a well-known hockey player turned coach who’s living openly with his partner and hockey’s golden boy Tennant Rowe, the youngest of hockey’s Rowe brothers. He’s also the grandson of a well-known old timer and all he’s ever wanted is to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and make them proud, so relationships are not something that factor into his life there’s no time not when you want to be one of the best.
Jacob Benson’s had a very different life growing up in a small rural farming community where he’s struggled alongside of his family to keep their dairy farm going. For Jacob hockey has become a means to an end…college hockey means scholarships and a chance at an agricultural science degree…a chance to learn things that could help him save his family’s farm. It’s not that he doesn’t like or want to play hockey…it’s just that for Jacob, hockey’s not the end game, but a means to an end and between his studies, hockey and working 2 jobs to pay for the things that his scholarship doesn’t. Jacob has even less time than Ryker for a relationship but try as they might neither one of these young men can bring themselves to truly walk away and really it’s just a summer fling right?
I loved Jacob and Ryker together, sure there were moment of immaturity and at times I found Jacob to be a bit judgey but he’s young…they’re both young and I don’t know about anyone else but some of my finer moments happened at this age, when I was young and silly enough to think I knew everything unlike now when I’m happy to realize that with any luck I know something…any little thing!!!
There are events from Goal Line book #6 of the Harrisburg Railers that get revisited in this story but it’s relevant and if you haven’t read that series it’s very helpful background information to have.
When Jacob and Ryker first meet there’s a bit of animosity between them, but as they get to know each other both men realize that if they’re ever going to get to know each other they’ll need to set aside their preconceived notions.
Ryker may be dedicated to being the best hockey player he can, but it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t understand that sometimes a person just needs to relax and unwind a bit something that Jacob doesn’t see as a priority or seem to have the time for. While Jacob helps Ryker look at things from a different and more personal perspective and not just as abstract concepts.
Ultimately when all is said and done together Jacob and Ryker help each other to grow and mature as they discover that even though they both have full and busy lives when it comes to love there’s always room for more.
I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series we’ve been introduced to some of the Owatonna Eagles and I definitely want more about Ben and Scott and I won’t deny it I’m also on the lookout for more about the Harrisburg Railers should the occasion arise.
After all I am Canadian and R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey have become two of my favorite ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ announcers.
***************************
An ARC of ‘Ryker’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
If you’ve a fan of and have read ‘The Harrisburg Railers’ series...
than you know who Ryker is and at the very least can probably skip the rest of this paragraph. If you’re not you can probably still read this book and not feel lost but honestly, I think you’ll enjoy it even more if you’ve read the series or at least the first book which has Ryker’s father, Jared Madsen as one of the MC’s along with Jared’s partner Tennant Rowe. We’ve gotten glimpses of Ryker here and there throughout the series but nowhere more than ‘Changing Lines’, book 1 of the Harrisburg Railers and now here in his own book.
Not only is Ryker the son of a well-known hockey player turned coach who’s living openly with his partner and hockey’s golden boy Tennant Rowe, the youngest of hockey’s Rowe brothers. He’s also the grandson of a well-known old timer and all he’s ever wanted is to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and make them proud, so relationships are not something that factor into his life there’s no time not when you want to be one of the best.
Jacob Benson’s had a very different life growing up in a small rural farming community where he’s struggled alongside of his family to keep their dairy farm going. For Jacob hockey has become a means to an end…college hockey means scholarships and a chance at an agricultural science degree…a chance to learn things that could help him save his family’s farm. It’s not that he doesn’t like or want to play hockey…it’s just that for Jacob, hockey’s not the end game, but a means to an end and between his studies, hockey and working 2 jobs to pay for the things that his scholarship doesn’t. Jacob has even less time than Ryker for a relationship but try as they might neither one of these young men can bring themselves to truly walk away and really it’s just a summer fling right?
I loved Jacob and Ryker together, sure there were moment of immaturity and at times I found Jacob to be a bit judgey but he’s young…they’re both young and I don’t know about anyone else but some of my finer moments happened at this age, when I was young and silly enough to think I knew everything unlike now when I’m happy to realize that with any luck I know something…any little thing!!!
There are events from Goal Line book #6 of the Harrisburg Railers that get revisited in this story but it’s relevant and if you haven’t read that series it’s very helpful background information to have.
When Jacob and Ryker first meet there’s a bit of animosity between them, but as they get to know each other both men realize that if they’re ever going to get to know each other they’ll need to set aside their preconceived notions.
Ryker may be dedicated to being the best hockey player he can, but it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t understand that sometimes a person just needs to relax and unwind a bit something that Jacob doesn’t see as a priority or seem to have the time for. While Jacob helps Ryker look at things from a different and more personal perspective and not just as abstract concepts.
Ultimately when all is said and done together Jacob and Ryker help each other to grow and mature as they discover that even though they both have full and busy lives when it comes to love there’s always room for more.
I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series we’ve been introduced to some of the Owatonna Eagles and I definitely want more about Ben and Scott and I won’t deny it I’m also on the lookout for more about the Harrisburg Railers should the occasion arise.
After all I am Canadian and R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey have become two of my favorite ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ announcers.
***************************
An ARC of ‘Ryker’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2018
It's not often I read a Young Adult romance because invariably I find myself rolling my eyes at the antics or - understandable given their ages - lack of maturity often used in the narrative to create plot tension.
However, as this is a spin off from the Harrisburg Railers series and it comes from the pens of two of the finest writers of sports romance in the genre, I knew I'd get little of the above.
There is a wee bit of what could be described as irrational dislike when Ryker and Jacob meet, but the in character explanations more than adequately provide reasons for Jacob's feelings.
He's also fairly quick to acknowledge it was his own unreasonable prejudices and a sense of misplaced inadequacy over their different backgrounds which led to his behaviour.
When they do finally move beyond friendship, the reader is given a truly beautiful tale of first love. They come to rely on each other for everything and, when the book brings us up to date with what's been happening on the ice for the Railers, we see just how much Jacob has become Ryker's solid foundation.
I loved everything about this book, apart from and I'm seriously looking forward to seeing where these authors take us next.
Scott's story looks like it will be way more angsty and I'm now "bring it on"!
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
However, as this is a spin off from the Harrisburg Railers series and it comes from the pens of two of the finest writers of sports romance in the genre, I knew I'd get little of the above.
There is a wee bit of what could be described as irrational dislike when Ryker and Jacob meet, but the in character explanations more than adequately provide reasons for Jacob's feelings.
He's also fairly quick to acknowledge it was his own unreasonable prejudices and a sense of misplaced inadequacy over their different backgrounds which led to his behaviour.
When they do finally move beyond friendship, the reader is given a truly beautiful tale of first love. They come to rely on each other for everything and, when the book brings us up to date with what's been happening on the ice for the Railers, we see just how much Jacob has become Ryker's solid foundation.
I loved everything about this book, apart from and I'm seriously looking forward to seeing where these authors take us next.
Scott's story looks like it will be way more angsty and I'm now "bring it on"!
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
January 8, 2019
Weird, I thought I made a review when read. Anyway, it was good enough I still vividly remember the story.
1) This is a spin-off of the Harrisburg Railers series : No need to read the main series. However, the main series is so good, it’s no hardship to read before, at least book1 and book6.
2) Genre : sports romance (the hockey part is well balanced with the romance), NA (I have a hard time with NA, but it worked well, here…kudos to the authors) and opposite-attract (social status and personalities).
3) Low angst, sweet young men, nice romance, moderate steam (which is good imo, as they are quite young, and exploring sex and relationship), sweet HFN. I’m sure that the next books will give glimpses of the MCs, Ryker and Jared, but they are, for sure, in a good place.
For me, RJ Scott and VL Lockey make a great team. I’m not going to keep with this series, but only because NA is not a trope I favour. Even though I read that book mainly not to miss anything about Ten and Jared (as Ryker is their son who is flying out of the nest in this spin-off), I enjoyed it a LOT and I was quite happy to follow Ryker who left a very good impression for me in the Harrisburg Railers series !!
1) This is a spin-off of the Harrisburg Railers series : No need to read the main series. However, the main series is so good, it’s no hardship to read before, at least book1 and book6.
2) Genre : sports romance (the hockey part is well balanced with the romance), NA (I have a hard time with NA, but it worked well, here…kudos to the authors) and opposite-attract (social status and personalities).
3) Low angst, sweet young men, nice romance, moderate steam (which is good imo, as they are quite young, and exploring sex and relationship), sweet HFN. I’m sure that the next books will give glimpses of the MCs, Ryker and Jared, but they are, for sure, in a good place.
For me, RJ Scott and VL Lockey make a great team. I’m not going to keep with this series, but only because NA is not a trope I favour. Even though I read that book mainly not to miss anything about Ten and Jared (as Ryker is their son who is flying out of the nest in this spin-off), I enjoyed it a LOT and I was quite happy to follow Ryker who left a very good impression for me in the Harrisburg Railers series !!
October 9, 2018
FYI: "Ryker" is in the "Harrisburg Railers" series universe and runs concurrently with that series, but it easily read as a stand-alone. Although if you haven't read Harrisburg Railer's #6 "Goal Line" please be aware there ARE spoilers for that book here.
When Ryker Madsen and Jacob Benson meet at a Canadian hockey camp, sparks fly ... eventually. For Jacob, hockey is the means to an end and his dream is not playing in the NHL but rather getting his agricultural science degree at Owatonna U so he can return to the family farm in Minnesota. His hockey scholarship pays for college and he needs to improve his skills at the hockey camp to ensure his spot on the Owatonna Eagles team.
Ryker is third-generation hockey, with his grandfather and father having played in the NHL. He's already drafted by an NHL team and the camp is merely to polish his skills. Ryker is immediately impressed by the big strong Minnesota farm boy, while Jacob hates that Ryker has been given everything on a silver platter and doesn't understand the struggles other deal with. But when the roommates finally get past all their preconceptions, their slow-burn romance is all kinds of wonderful. This plot just grabs you from page one and carries you off in a great blend of young love and hockey.
I love that the book is primarily set in Minnesota and the authors lovingly describe the beauty of a Minnesota dairy farm, while showing us Jacob's character and determination in making the farm more successful. And Ryker is so beautifully drawn as well - his obvious hockey brilliance contrasting with the lessons he needs to learn in teamwork and friendship. The love story here is more YA than the Harrisburg Railers series, but just feels right as these two almost-virgins explore their relationship and each other in numerous, very very sexy ways.
The authors also do a good job of introducing other characters who will be featured in upcoming books in the series, and while "Ryker" ends in a HFN, I imagine we'll learn more about their life together as the "Owatonnna U Hockey" series progresses. 4 strong stars for "Ryker."
I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Review also also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
When Ryker Madsen and Jacob Benson meet at a Canadian hockey camp, sparks fly ... eventually. For Jacob, hockey is the means to an end and his dream is not playing in the NHL but rather getting his agricultural science degree at Owatonna U so he can return to the family farm in Minnesota. His hockey scholarship pays for college and he needs to improve his skills at the hockey camp to ensure his spot on the Owatonna Eagles team.
Ryker is third-generation hockey, with his grandfather and father having played in the NHL. He's already drafted by an NHL team and the camp is merely to polish his skills. Ryker is immediately impressed by the big strong Minnesota farm boy, while Jacob hates that Ryker has been given everything on a silver platter and doesn't understand the struggles other deal with. But when the roommates finally get past all their preconceptions, their slow-burn romance is all kinds of wonderful. This plot just grabs you from page one and carries you off in a great blend of young love and hockey.
I love that the book is primarily set in Minnesota and the authors lovingly describe the beauty of a Minnesota dairy farm, while showing us Jacob's character and determination in making the farm more successful. And Ryker is so beautifully drawn as well - his obvious hockey brilliance contrasting with the lessons he needs to learn in teamwork and friendship. The love story here is more YA than the Harrisburg Railers series, but just feels right as these two almost-virgins explore their relationship and each other in numerous, very very sexy ways.
The authors also do a good job of introducing other characters who will be featured in upcoming books in the series, and while "Ryker" ends in a HFN, I imagine we'll learn more about their life together as the "Owatonnna U Hockey" series progresses. 4 strong stars for "Ryker."
I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Review also also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
May 8, 2023
I absolutely love Ryker and Jacob together BUT I do have a rant about this interconnected series that I just can't keep in anymore!
The consistency/continuity is just not there. It shouldn't be on a reader to notice that characters completely change from one book to another! I mean like basic character info is just completely different/incorrect from one book to the next, and now that I'm seven books in, it's really starting to bug me - even from creative writing at Uni I know that you have your basic character info recorded somewhere in some way especially if you're doing an ongoing series, so it feels really sloppy when it just keeps happening.
What I love to read most is really long interconnected series of books, because I like that we never really say goodbye to characters, and they pop up in other books and you learn more about them. The things that have been bugging me haven't been about the MC's in a book, but they are about side characters who feature heavily in the series. To start with, the name of the Harrisburg coach kept changing from Coach Benning to Coach Benson between books, along with his personality - one book he's stuffy and vocal, then next he's quiet, soft spoken and calm but there's no mention of a new coach, or any real explanation for the change in him - it's as though one book was written by one author, but the other author wrote the next book and didn't get a memo or something. Plus the team owner of Harrisburg, Felix Cote, goes from being described as a former NHL star in Book 2 who's house is covered in memorabilia from his career, but then in Book 3 he's described as having never been a player, he's just a money man... Make it make sense please!!
That brings me to Ryker's story where it finally annoyed me enough to rant! Book 1 in the Harrisburg series is all about Ryker's dad, Jared, and it is explicitly stated multiple times that he was only 15 when he impregnated Ryker's mum, and they had no 'romantic' relationship and were just friends. Ryker's grandpa, Ev, blocked Jared from being near either his mum or Ryker for years. When Jared did manage to legally get back into Ryker's life, he and the mother were never involved in a romantic relationship, let alone married. Yet in Ryker's book, it mentions more than once that his parents are divorced - Ermmmm this is BASIC character information and definitely something a kid would know about their parents! If it hadn't been such a huge part of the character development of Jared in Book 1 I probably wouldn't have noticed it or would have thought maybe I misread something in the other book, but you can't make something such a huge part of who your character is at their core, and then turn around six books later and completely rewrite their history to better fit this book!
After that I just didn't feel like I could trust anything from Ryker's POV which was a shame because I really liked his character. It was then compounded by the fact that in Book 1 Ev very publicly told Ryker he wanted nothing more to do with him and was disowning/disinheriting him because not only did he back Jared and Ten coming out to the public, but Ryker stated he had kissed a boy and he liked it. Yet in Ryker's book grandpa is back and just a mild annoyance? Like this only happened a year or two before but there was zero mention of any reconciliation or the way that Ev behaved? It doesn't seem like much but these were built up as 'big events' in that book and now they just didn't happen? It makes me feel like I can't trust anything else in the series as having actually happened, because is it just going to be revised or erased from history in the next book to better fit that plot?
Asides from that rant, I really did like Ryker and Jacob together, they felt natural especially the way they were discovering sex together - it's never believable for me when two virgins have 'perfect' sex first time out so this was refreshing to see! Honestly, I just wanted more of their story and I was kinda sad at how abruptly their book ended - but having read the Harrisburg books already, I am aware that every book these authors write together ends in this way and the overall story will be picked up again as a background element in the next, or future, books.
I'm going to keep going with the series because I do love most of the MC's, but I really hope the consistency and character continuity improves because that's something I always pick up on, especially because I tend to binge read entire series, and it really taints my enjoyment of a series!
The consistency/continuity is just not there. It shouldn't be on a reader to notice that characters completely change from one book to another! I mean like basic character info is just completely different/incorrect from one book to the next, and now that I'm seven books in, it's really starting to bug me - even from creative writing at Uni I know that you have your basic character info recorded somewhere in some way especially if you're doing an ongoing series, so it feels really sloppy when it just keeps happening.
What I love to read most is really long interconnected series of books, because I like that we never really say goodbye to characters, and they pop up in other books and you learn more about them. The things that have been bugging me haven't been about the MC's in a book, but they are about side characters who feature heavily in the series. To start with, the name of the Harrisburg coach kept changing from Coach Benning to Coach Benson between books, along with his personality - one book he's stuffy and vocal, then next he's quiet, soft spoken and calm but there's no mention of a new coach, or any real explanation for the change in him - it's as though one book was written by one author, but the other author wrote the next book and didn't get a memo or something. Plus the team owner of Harrisburg, Felix Cote, goes from being described as a former NHL star in Book 2 who's house is covered in memorabilia from his career, but then in Book 3 he's described as having never been a player, he's just a money man... Make it make sense please!!
That brings me to Ryker's story where it finally annoyed me enough to rant! Book 1 in the Harrisburg series is all about Ryker's dad, Jared, and it is explicitly stated multiple times that he was only 15 when he impregnated Ryker's mum, and they had no 'romantic' relationship and were just friends. Ryker's grandpa, Ev, blocked Jared from being near either his mum or Ryker for years. When Jared did manage to legally get back into Ryker's life, he and the mother were never involved in a romantic relationship, let alone married. Yet in Ryker's book, it mentions more than once that his parents are divorced - Ermmmm this is BASIC character information and definitely something a kid would know about their parents! If it hadn't been such a huge part of the character development of Jared in Book 1 I probably wouldn't have noticed it or would have thought maybe I misread something in the other book, but you can't make something such a huge part of who your character is at their core, and then turn around six books later and completely rewrite their history to better fit this book!
After that I just didn't feel like I could trust anything from Ryker's POV which was a shame because I really liked his character. It was then compounded by the fact that in Book 1 Ev very publicly told Ryker he wanted nothing more to do with him and was disowning/disinheriting him because not only did he back Jared and Ten coming out to the public, but Ryker stated he had kissed a boy and he liked it. Yet in Ryker's book grandpa is back and just a mild annoyance? Like this only happened a year or two before but there was zero mention of any reconciliation or the way that Ev behaved? It doesn't seem like much but these were built up as 'big events' in that book and now they just didn't happen? It makes me feel like I can't trust anything else in the series as having actually happened, because is it just going to be revised or erased from history in the next book to better fit that plot?
Asides from that rant, I really did like Ryker and Jacob together, they felt natural especially the way they were discovering sex together - it's never believable for me when two virgins have 'perfect' sex first time out so this was refreshing to see! Honestly, I just wanted more of their story and I was kinda sad at how abruptly their book ended - but having read the Harrisburg books already, I am aware that every book these authors write together ends in this way and the overall story will be picked up again as a background element in the next, or future, books.
I'm going to keep going with the series because I do love most of the MC's, but I really hope the consistency and character continuity improves because that's something I always pick up on, especially because I tend to binge read entire series, and it really taints my enjoyment of a series!
September 14, 2018
If the testament of a great story is you laid in bed at 4am, eyes as wide as saucers, with a satisfied smile on your face, then yes, this was a really damn good one.
Ryker, what a beautiful soul, so guileless and carefree, and Jacob, the big, stoic cuddle monster who bears the weight of the world on his shoulders. Misconceptions abound when Jacob first meets Ryker and I can’t blame him for that one little bit, but the more he gets to know Ry and is virtually battered by his relentlessness and the innate goodness of the man, it’s brings home the fact that first impressions can be wildly off the mark.
This shouldn't work. Both seemingly on different paths with Jacob having huge responsibilities at home, and Ryker; destined to follow the path of Ten and dad Jared to the heights of the NHL. Their lives are so very different, and they’re just beginning to try and carve out their own futures, there can’t be any room for the blinding attraction and friendship they’ve just found in each other, can there? Ryker is utterly adorable and Jacob, oh my… he’s just big and strong and quiet and solid, and I just willed them on all the way through the book as they seemed so perfect for each other and exactly what the other needed and deserved.
There’s so much I love about this book; we’re thrown right back into the hockey world where there’s always so much happening, there’s drama on and off the ice, a ton of camaraderie (one of my favourite parts of the authors’ writing is the way they make you feel the friendship and solidarity between the guys), and we’re introduced to new cast of characters who all play a big part here and I’m really, really looking forward to hearing more from in this new series.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
Ryker, what a beautiful soul, so guileless and carefree, and Jacob, the big, stoic cuddle monster who bears the weight of the world on his shoulders. Misconceptions abound when Jacob first meets Ryker and I can’t blame him for that one little bit, but the more he gets to know Ry and is virtually battered by his relentlessness and the innate goodness of the man, it’s brings home the fact that first impressions can be wildly off the mark.
This shouldn't work. Both seemingly on different paths with Jacob having huge responsibilities at home, and Ryker; destined to follow the path of Ten and dad Jared to the heights of the NHL. Their lives are so very different, and they’re just beginning to try and carve out their own futures, there can’t be any room for the blinding attraction and friendship they’ve just found in each other, can there? Ryker is utterly adorable and Jacob, oh my… he’s just big and strong and quiet and solid, and I just willed them on all the way through the book as they seemed so perfect for each other and exactly what the other needed and deserved.
There’s so much I love about this book; we’re thrown right back into the hockey world where there’s always so much happening, there’s drama on and off the ice, a ton of camaraderie (one of my favourite parts of the authors’ writing is the way they make you feel the friendship and solidarity between the guys), and we’re introduced to new cast of characters who all play a big part here and I’m really, really looking forward to hearing more from in this new series.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
September 24, 2018
This was so good, I practically read it it one setting!
This is the first book in a spin-off series of the Harrisburg Railers. Ryker is Jared’s son and he’s just been drafted. As much as he’d love to drop out of college and start in the AHL (or even ECHL), his new team wants him to stay in school.
He ends up going to a hockey camp in which he meets Jacob and the rest of the Owatanna U team. He realizes he fits in with them better than his current team, so he manages to pull off a transfer.
Jacob, a farmer’s son, is first put off by the rich, “spoiled” boy. He’s not happy that his camp fling is now on his team, but quickly realizes that Ryker belongs there.
Once he decides to give him a second chance,they quickly become best friends and fall back into bed together. They are also each other’s rocks. When tragedy strikes in Ryker’s life, Jacob doesn’t hesitate to make the long drive to Harrisburg to be at his side.
This was a beautiful story of friendship and love (and even coming out with positive results). I loved it and highly recommend.
I received an ARC.
This is the first book in a spin-off series of the Harrisburg Railers. Ryker is Jared’s son and he’s just been drafted. As much as he’d love to drop out of college and start in the AHL (or even ECHL), his new team wants him to stay in school.
He ends up going to a hockey camp in which he meets Jacob and the rest of the Owatanna U team. He realizes he fits in with them better than his current team, so he manages to pull off a transfer.
Jacob, a farmer’s son, is first put off by the rich, “spoiled” boy. He’s not happy that his camp fling is now on his team, but quickly realizes that Ryker belongs there.
Once he decides to give him a second chance,they quickly become best friends and fall back into bed together. They are also each other’s rocks. When tragedy strikes in Ryker’s life, Jacob doesn’t hesitate to make the long drive to Harrisburg to be at his side.
This was a beautiful story of friendship and love (and even coming out with positive results). I loved it and highly recommend.
I received an ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
![Profile Image for annob [on hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1674812294i%2F68231680._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
dnf
July 12, 2019Dnf @ 29%.
The first chapter was like an epilogue of another book, filled with characters that was complete strangers to me but context gave away must be cameos from other books, which greatly annoyed me since this book is marketed as book 1 in the series.
Not off to a good start, I was hoping for improvement but found the story too heavy on the tell, and too shallow for my mood. I'm a bit surprised by my dislike since the co-author VL Locey's 'Point Shot Trilogy Box Set' is a favourite book of mine.
The first chapter was like an epilogue of another book, filled with characters that was complete strangers to me but context gave away must be cameos from other books, which greatly annoyed me since this book is marketed as book 1 in the series.
Not off to a good start, I was hoping for improvement but found the story too heavy on the tell, and too shallow for my mood. I'm a bit surprised by my dislike since the co-author VL Locey's 'Point Shot Trilogy Box Set' is a favourite book of mine.
September 19, 2018
R.J Scott and V.L. Locey continue their successful collaboration with a new series about college hockey with a more NA feel. If you’ve read the Harrisburg Railers series, you’ve met Jared’s son Ryker and you’ll know what happened at the end of the last book. Most of Ryker’s story runs concurrent with Goal Line but can be read as a stand alone. (Go read the first series; you know you want to!) Meeting at a hockey conditioning camp, Jacob is initially unfriendly, dismissive of Ryker and a bit jealous, calling him out over his privileged life and relatively easy ride to the NHL. Enforced proximity as roommates and their obvious attraction leads Ryker and Jacob into having a fling before parting ways after camp. Back at college, Jacob has a tough time trying to play well enough to keep his scholarship, pay his way with two jobs and placate a father who appears to see Jacob as a disappointment for being gay. Jacob is not happy when he finds out Ryker has transferred to Owatonna. He needs to concentrate on his future and Ryker is a distraction he doesn’t need.
This narrative utilizes the authors’ familiar style of alternating viewpoints , making it easy to see the characters personalities develop. Ryker has to make an effort to develop his maturity, connect with Jacob and really understand how much he has taken for granted, including his own hockey skills. I liked Jacob’s character a lot, even when he was being defensive and harsh with Ryker, mostly because he was trying to protect himself and his heart. The relationship progress is really paced well as he and Ryker communicate more, exchange their thoughts and ideas and Ryker even aids Jacob in coming to a better understanding of his parents. Seeing the major characters in action on the ice adds to the veracity of the setting and shows how the culture of the sport is influential to the plot.
The heat level for the couple is pretty moderate since both guys are kind of inexperienced but also at odds more than once. The “I love you’s” still felt a little bit rushed and I wanted to see more follow up on a couple of minor details, but it’s no biggie. I was also glad that the crisis for Ten wasn’t tied to any issues between Ryker and Jacob. They build a strong relationship by the end of the story and I’ll hope to see more of them in the future, since Ryker is already drafted once he finishes school. I’d recommend this book to both NA fans, hockey lovers and those of us who are only hockey fans between the pages of a book.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
This narrative utilizes the authors’ familiar style of alternating viewpoints , making it easy to see the characters personalities develop. Ryker has to make an effort to develop his maturity, connect with Jacob and really understand how much he has taken for granted, including his own hockey skills. I liked Jacob’s character a lot, even when he was being defensive and harsh with Ryker, mostly because he was trying to protect himself and his heart. The relationship progress is really paced well as he and Ryker communicate more, exchange their thoughts and ideas and Ryker even aids Jacob in coming to a better understanding of his parents. Seeing the major characters in action on the ice adds to the veracity of the setting and shows how the culture of the sport is influential to the plot.
The heat level for the couple is pretty moderate since both guys are kind of inexperienced but also at odds more than once. The “I love you’s” still felt a little bit rushed and I wanted to see more follow up on a couple of minor details, but it’s no biggie. I was also glad that the crisis for Ten wasn’t tied to any issues between Ryker and Jacob. They build a strong relationship by the end of the story and I’ll hope to see more of them in the future, since Ryker is already drafted once he finishes school. I’d recommend this book to both NA fans, hockey lovers and those of us who are only hockey fans between the pages of a book.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
September 18, 2018
Like any other reader who followed the Harrisburg Railer series, we are so eager to start on this spin off series. My main reason is definitely follow up on what happened to Ten and Jared. They both are an integral part of Ryker's life, but I'm glad to see what this story isn't all about Ryker's dads. In fact, almost the entire book actually took place before the event at the end of Harrisburg Railer.
I have soft spot for Ryker even since I knew him as Jared's son. Unlike other rich and famous teenagers who prefer partying and being a general nuisance, Ryker is driven and ambitious. He might not know about being poor, but he know hard work and dedication. He easily befriend everyone until he met Jacob, his summer camp roommate who despised him.
Jacob is a poor farm boy who came from an entirely different world than Ryker. He is stubborn as a mule and came across as a judgemental asshole for hating Ryker just for being who he is. But I do understand where Jacob is coming from. I used to be the poor schmuck in high school who look at everyone with envy.
Ryker and Jacob gives us a little bit of enemies to lovers vibe and I love their interaction. Jacob is being an anti-social and Ryker is persistence in trying to befriend him. I'm sure everyone will fall for Ryker's charm and sweetness. He is just plain adorable and I didn't expect to like him so much.
I like the strong family bonding we have in this book. Of course we know all about Ryker's family, Jacob's family dynamic also caught me off guard with how much I actually ended up rooting for him and his farm. I didn't know I care about cows that much.
Overall, this spin off series is off to a great start. Looking forward to more of these hockey players even though this time around they are much younger.
I have soft spot for Ryker even since I knew him as Jared's son. Unlike other rich and famous teenagers who prefer partying and being a general nuisance, Ryker is driven and ambitious. He might not know about being poor, but he know hard work and dedication. He easily befriend everyone until he met Jacob, his summer camp roommate who despised him.
Jacob is a poor farm boy who came from an entirely different world than Ryker. He is stubborn as a mule and came across as a judgemental asshole for hating Ryker just for being who he is. But I do understand where Jacob is coming from. I used to be the poor schmuck in high school who look at everyone with envy.
Ryker and Jacob gives us a little bit of enemies to lovers vibe and I love their interaction. Jacob is being an anti-social and Ryker is persistence in trying to befriend him. I'm sure everyone will fall for Ryker's charm and sweetness. He is just plain adorable and I didn't expect to like him so much.
I like the strong family bonding we have in this book. Of course we know all about Ryker's family, Jacob's family dynamic also caught me off guard with how much I actually ended up rooting for him and his farm. I didn't know I care about cows that much.
Overall, this spin off series is off to a great start. Looking forward to more of these hockey players even though this time around they are much younger.
October 3, 2018
I have been so excited for Ryker's story since before I even knew he was getting one, and I freaking loved it. Mostly. But I will get back to that "mostly" in a minute...
Ryker and Jacob have an obvious connection from the start. Seemingly two complete opposites when they meet at a hockey camp, Jacob wants nothing to do with who he thinks Ryker is.. but Ryker's true self wears him down after a while, and their chemistry explodes. Saying goodbye is not easy for either of them, but what will happen when they suddenly find themselves attending the same college and playing on the same team?
I'll tell you what doesn't happen: an easy ANYTHING. Jacob, Jacob, Jacob.. oh man. He made me a little crazy for a while there with his reaction and attitude, even if at times I understood (somewhat) his resistance. There is a lot of chemistry between them but neither are all that experienced yet, and I *love* how the authors portray their sexual exploration together. It rings true with a good dose of awkwardness and fumbling, and exactly what most people experience when everything is new to them. My one complaint about their story? I just wish it was longer because I want more!
As this is a spinoff of the Harrisburg Railers series, we also get more of Ryker's dad, Jared, Ten, and the rest of the Railers. But this is where my "mostly" from earlier comes in.. and no, I am not going to tell you what happens, but I can tell you it completely shocked and devastated me. You may want to have some tissues handy, just saying. But that is life, right? And sometimes life throws a wrench in the works, and it certainly has here for this family. I need the novella that this event is leading to. Need it. Bad.
I am so happy RJ Scott and VL Locey have given us this spinoff series and these new characters, and I am really looking forward to Scott's story and getting to know the rest of Ryker's new teammates more. This author duo writes so seamlessly and cohesively together and has quickly become one of my autobuys. You don't need to read the Railers series to enjoy this book, but believe me - you want to!
Ryker and Jacob have an obvious connection from the start. Seemingly two complete opposites when they meet at a hockey camp, Jacob wants nothing to do with who he thinks Ryker is.. but Ryker's true self wears him down after a while, and their chemistry explodes. Saying goodbye is not easy for either of them, but what will happen when they suddenly find themselves attending the same college and playing on the same team?
I'll tell you what doesn't happen: an easy ANYTHING. Jacob, Jacob, Jacob.. oh man. He made me a little crazy for a while there with his reaction and attitude, even if at times I understood (somewhat) his resistance. There is a lot of chemistry between them but neither are all that experienced yet, and I *love* how the authors portray their sexual exploration together. It rings true with a good dose of awkwardness and fumbling, and exactly what most people experience when everything is new to them. My one complaint about their story? I just wish it was longer because I want more!
As this is a spinoff of the Harrisburg Railers series, we also get more of Ryker's dad, Jared, Ten, and the rest of the Railers. But this is where my "mostly" from earlier comes in.. and no, I am not going to tell you what happens, but I can tell you it completely shocked and devastated me. You may want to have some tissues handy, just saying. But that is life, right? And sometimes life throws a wrench in the works, and it certainly has here for this family. I need the novella that this event is leading to. Need it. Bad.
I am so happy RJ Scott and VL Locey have given us this spinoff series and these new characters, and I am really looking forward to Scott's story and getting to know the rest of Ryker's new teammates more. This author duo writes so seamlessly and cohesively together and has quickly become one of my autobuys. You don't need to read the Railers series to enjoy this book, but believe me - you want to!
September 24, 2018
Absolutely loved this. So worth the wait.
Jacob is a farm boy and sorting things out in his life, trying to choose what's right for him. Ryker is, as the blurb says, ice hockey royalty, but he's also niave and pretty clueless about just how real life works. Jacob is intent on staying away, but that's not how things work out.
I have to say that I loved these two together, how their relationship progressed through friends to lovers, and then seeing them work through things that were going on made for a lovely read. The book is, at its heart, really a simple love story. Jacob judges, Ryker wants to be liked, there's misunderstandings, and then wham! Turns out, nothing was better for the privileged Ryker than being dragged out of his tower by his moody farm boy.
Another thing I loved about this book was the secondary characters and how they were written, they all had a part to play and I look forward to their stories.
Ms Scott and Ms Locey have yet again delivered another sweet and heart warming story. Plenty to love in this book, including the bittersweet appearance of Jared and Ten. I highly recommend this story, and the Harrisburg Railers series that comes before it, all a must read.
Jacob is a farm boy and sorting things out in his life, trying to choose what's right for him. Ryker is, as the blurb says, ice hockey royalty, but he's also niave and pretty clueless about just how real life works. Jacob is intent on staying away, but that's not how things work out.
I have to say that I loved these two together, how their relationship progressed through friends to lovers, and then seeing them work through things that were going on made for a lovely read. The book is, at its heart, really a simple love story. Jacob judges, Ryker wants to be liked, there's misunderstandings, and then wham! Turns out, nothing was better for the privileged Ryker than being dragged out of his tower by his moody farm boy.
Another thing I loved about this book was the secondary characters and how they were written, they all had a part to play and I look forward to their stories.
Ms Scott and Ms Locey have yet again delivered another sweet and heart warming story. Plenty to love in this book, including the bittersweet appearance of Jared and Ten. I highly recommend this story, and the Harrisburg Railers series that comes before it, all a must read.
October 12, 2018
The books in the Harrisburg series have been a hit and miss for me. But I like me some hot hockey player’s luving, so I always give the next book a chance.
Ryker is a spin-off of the above mentioned series and I have to say that is probably the best book so far.
Not a lot of steam, but lots of sweetness.
Ryker is a spin-off of the above mentioned series and I have to say that is probably the best book so far.
Not a lot of steam, but lots of sweetness.
May 6, 2021
I love Ryker! He was a bit of a brat in the beginning of the Harrisburg Railers series, but he’s clearly grown up. And Jacob is such a big cinnamon roll of a man and they’re perfect together. I’m hoping they can make their relationship work and I’m looking forward to seeing where they go from here.
September 5, 2018
Where to begin? This was a book I have been waiting for. We all have, those who follow The Railer's series. We met Ryker when he was younger and loved him and wanted him to have a HEA of his own. Once he got old enough of course.
I loved how we got to see into Jacob's life , meeting his parents and seeing the dynamic of his relationship with his dad. We see it before meeting Ryker, during his time @ both camp and college and at the end of the book. Jacob and Ryker are perfect for each other in every way. We all know, those that follow the Railer's series, quite a bit about Ryker's family. But we get to see and learn even more in this , his story.
I like a good conflict , at first, when characters are fighting how they feel. Their emotions, conflicts, friends and families were so very believable as well. This story did not disappoint. So much going on in these pages that I will not give away, for to do that, would ruin the surprises.
So once you get this..sit back, grab some tissue..you just might need some, and enjoy the amazing ride Rj and Vicki takes you on.
I loved how we got to see into Jacob's life , meeting his parents and seeing the dynamic of his relationship with his dad. We see it before meeting Ryker, during his time @ both camp and college and at the end of the book. Jacob and Ryker are perfect for each other in every way. We all know, those that follow the Railer's series, quite a bit about Ryker's family. But we get to see and learn even more in this , his story.
I like a good conflict , at first, when characters are fighting how they feel. Their emotions, conflicts, friends and families were so very believable as well. This story did not disappoint. So much going on in these pages that I will not give away, for to do that, would ruin the surprises.
So once you get this..sit back, grab some tissue..you just might need some, and enjoy the amazing ride Rj and Vicki takes you on.
September 26, 2018
So, I feel like this might be a spin-off from another series maybe? Maybe one including Ryker’s dad Jared a former pro hockey player and his boyfriend, Ten, current pro hockey player… Ryker comes from several generations of hockey players, and has worked hard to follow in their footsteps. Though he’s had a lot handed to him, hockey is most important… Going to a hockey camp for the summer, before starting in the big leagues with a team that he can’t stand…. He meets Jacob…
Jacob is the exact opposite; the son of a dairy farmer, his life consists of school, studying, hockey and the farm. He’s at camp to keep his game strong, because If he doesn’t play, he looses his funding for college. And he needs college to keep the farm in the family. It’ll one day be all his, and he wants that. It’s in his blood. Hard word, dedication, responsibility…. That’s all he knows, all he works towards, and rich golden-boy Ryker isn’t going to stand in his way….
Jacob forms an instant dislike to Ryker at first… he’s everything that he doesn’t get to be, and he’s not impressed. I didn’t like the way Jacob was at first, I could understand his envy or frustration, but he didn’t have to be rude….
And Ryker, it might’ve seemed like he had it all, but he was mostly used to people just using him to meet his famous family members, or to get something from him. He couldn’t understand why he wanted to get to know Jacob so much, now his roommate, but he does…. And he works at it.
Eventually, Ryker wears him down, and the two just can’t stay away from each other. Hard to do since they’re roommates and all so things get hot and heavy….Unfortunately both know it’ll only last the summer, and then they’ll go their separate ways….. right?
Wrong…
As it happens, the guys are shoved back together at school, though I won’t give away all the details. I loved Ryker for it though…. I felt like we had to start all over with Jacob, but he eventually came back around, after he was rude again….sigh….
All’s well that ends well though…. Things are bumpy for a while, especially when both has so much riding on their shoulders, but together, as long as they’re together, it’ll all work out. I loved how supportive the team was, how amazing their friends are, I can’t wait to see who’s up next…. Scott, I believe. I’m curious to see what happens between the two, if we get to see what happens after college, and I’m anxious to see what happens with Ten and Jared. I kind of loved them, I’m going to have to go see if they’ve gotta story somewhere!!
Overall, great start to what I’m sure will be an amazing series.
4 stars from me!
Jacob is the exact opposite; the son of a dairy farmer, his life consists of school, studying, hockey and the farm. He’s at camp to keep his game strong, because If he doesn’t play, he looses his funding for college. And he needs college to keep the farm in the family. It’ll one day be all his, and he wants that. It’s in his blood. Hard word, dedication, responsibility…. That’s all he knows, all he works towards, and rich golden-boy Ryker isn’t going to stand in his way….
Jacob forms an instant dislike to Ryker at first… he’s everything that he doesn’t get to be, and he’s not impressed. I didn’t like the way Jacob was at first, I could understand his envy or frustration, but he didn’t have to be rude….
And Ryker, it might’ve seemed like he had it all, but he was mostly used to people just using him to meet his famous family members, or to get something from him. He couldn’t understand why he wanted to get to know Jacob so much, now his roommate, but he does…. And he works at it.
Eventually, Ryker wears him down, and the two just can’t stay away from each other. Hard to do since they’re roommates and all so things get hot and heavy….Unfortunately both know it’ll only last the summer, and then they’ll go their separate ways….. right?
Wrong…
As it happens, the guys are shoved back together at school, though I won’t give away all the details. I loved Ryker for it though…. I felt like we had to start all over with Jacob, but he eventually came back around, after he was rude again….sigh….
All’s well that ends well though…. Things are bumpy for a while, especially when both has so much riding on their shoulders, but together, as long as they’re together, it’ll all work out. I loved how supportive the team was, how amazing their friends are, I can’t wait to see who’s up next…. Scott, I believe. I’m curious to see what happens between the two, if we get to see what happens after college, and I’m anxious to see what happens with Ten and Jared. I kind of loved them, I’m going to have to go see if they’ve gotta story somewhere!!
Overall, great start to what I’m sure will be an amazing series.
4 stars from me!
November 25, 2018
This was a good start to the series. I'm not sold on the relationship for these guys at such a young age with so much to overcome. Jacob is tied to the land, a very specific piece of land and that isn't going to change. Ryker is tied to Hockey and the teams he's tied to will change so these boys are really up against the odds.
What I did like was that it was way less instalove than RJS usually does and the realistic sex scenes. Neither one of these kids knew what they were doing and none of what they did was perfect or even all pleasurable as they experiment to find their way together. I really, really appreciated that aspect.
What I did like was that it was way less instalove than RJS usually does and the realistic sex scenes. Neither one of these kids knew what they were doing and none of what they did was perfect or even all pleasurable as they experiment to find their way together. I really, really appreciated that aspect.
March 21, 2020
Hockey and Love - Wonderful.
I love Hockey stories. I love the series that introduced Jared and Ten. Now comes the story of Jared's son. City boy from money meets dairy farmer trying to save the family farm. This book is so much more. This a story of love. Young love 💘.Mature love. Parental love. Love.
Well written as all RJ Scott's books are. I couldn't out it down.
I read this entire series again December 2019
I love Hockey stories. I love the series that introduced Jared and Ten. Now comes the story of Jared's son. City boy from money meets dairy farmer trying to save the family farm. This book is so much more. This a story of love. Young love 💘.Mature love. Parental love. Love.
Well written as all RJ Scott's books are. I couldn't out it down.
I read this entire series again December 2019
October 12, 2018
I am really liking all of these Hockey books RJ Scott and VL Locey are coming out with and this is another great start to a (spin-off) series “Owatonna U Hockey” which follows along after Ryker who we met in the previous “Harrisburg Railers” series books. When I learned that Ryker was getting his own book I was absolutely thrilled and was not disappointed at all by his storyline in this book. It was everything I had hoped for. But I really do need more for him, It didn’t really feel finished and I have my fingers crossed we will get more for Ryker in future books.
Also, while this is a spin-off and you should read all of the other books in the Harrisburg Railers series first before this book because they are amazing and why not… You can actually read this as a standalone and you won’t be completely lost. I think everything is explained pretty well in this book as it leads up to this point for these characters. But really… Just saying... You should read all the others books first, or you are totally missing out on greatness.
Ryker is the Son/Step-son of NHL hockey players Mad’s and Ten. He’s basically led a charmed life growing up with all things hockey, getting all the newest and most expensive gear and learning to play from the pros. But in this book we get to see him knocked down a peg, learning who his “friends” really are, or aren’t, showing how humble he really is even though he has had a lot handed to him in life. I loved getting to see him find his way on his own fumbling along, realizing who he is as a grown person and not just being “Mad’s & Ten’s kid”. I think that these authors made the perfect person for Ryker in Jacob.
Jacob and Ryker meet at summer hockey camp. Jacob has an instant dislike for everything Ryker has and does. Not really knowing Ryker as a person, just knowing how he was handed everything he has in life. Compared to Jacob who has had to work hard every step of the way for every single thing he has. Jacob ultimately makes Ryker think twice about everything he’s been given and everything he does.
The two of them fumbling their way through all their first experiences together is really refreshing and cute and I love that the authors let us see all of that in this book, it was a great addition to the story. They made me laugh with the way they learned what they were doing together when it came to the sexual aspect of their relationship. Like, why didn’t either of them do any research or checked out any porn or anything?!? And, yes, Ryker… It is a little stalkerish for you to change schools and not tell anyone before you just show up back in Jacob’s space. LOL. Luckily that all worked out for the best. They just muddle along like two young, but mature adults trying to find their path. I cannot wait to see if/when we get more from these two guys, I am so totally not finished seeing where their relationship ends up together. I really want them to live a full and long life, HEA together. Their love can never end, I would really be devastated if that happened!!!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement.***
Also, while this is a spin-off and you should read all of the other books in the Harrisburg Railers series first before this book because they are amazing and why not… You can actually read this as a standalone and you won’t be completely lost. I think everything is explained pretty well in this book as it leads up to this point for these characters. But really… Just saying... You should read all the others books first, or you are totally missing out on greatness.
Ryker is the Son/Step-son of NHL hockey players Mad’s and Ten. He’s basically led a charmed life growing up with all things hockey, getting all the newest and most expensive gear and learning to play from the pros. But in this book we get to see him knocked down a peg, learning who his “friends” really are, or aren’t, showing how humble he really is even though he has had a lot handed to him in life. I loved getting to see him find his way on his own fumbling along, realizing who he is as a grown person and not just being “Mad’s & Ten’s kid”. I think that these authors made the perfect person for Ryker in Jacob.
Jacob and Ryker meet at summer hockey camp. Jacob has an instant dislike for everything Ryker has and does. Not really knowing Ryker as a person, just knowing how he was handed everything he has in life. Compared to Jacob who has had to work hard every step of the way for every single thing he has. Jacob ultimately makes Ryker think twice about everything he’s been given and everything he does.
The two of them fumbling their way through all their first experiences together is really refreshing and cute and I love that the authors let us see all of that in this book, it was a great addition to the story. They made me laugh with the way they learned what they were doing together when it came to the sexual aspect of their relationship. Like, why didn’t either of them do any research or checked out any porn or anything?!? And, yes, Ryker… It is a little stalkerish for you to change schools and not tell anyone before you just show up back in Jacob’s space. LOL. Luckily that all worked out for the best. They just muddle along like two young, but mature adults trying to find their path. I cannot wait to see if/when we get more from these two guys, I am so totally not finished seeing where their relationship ends up together. I really want them to live a full and long life, HEA together. Their love can never end, I would really be devastated if that happened!!!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement.***
October 1, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Ryker is the first in the new Owatonna U. Hockey series by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey. It appears to be a standalone series, but occurs in the same universe as the Harrisburg Railers series and mentions familiar characters and events. So while you won’t be lost if you haven’t read that series, doing so would help make this one more enjoyable. We’ve met Ryker Madsen before. He’s the son of Jared Madsen, who coaches the Railers. He has lived something of a charmed life, being born with natural skill and into a family with enough money to give him the best of everything. He isn’t stuck up by any means, but he does take his position and wealth somewhat for granted. But now that’s he’s older, it’s become harder and harder to find people who care about him as a person and not about the influence his father’s name might bring. It’s hard not to like Ryker. He’s got an irrepressible buoyancy and enough real affection to make him endearing. Jacob has a chip on his shoulder regarding Ryker and while his treatment of Ryker is annoying at times, it’s also believable and understandable. He’s fighting to keep what little he has while Ryker seems to sail through life. Theirs is a sweet, albeit fast moving, romance despite its moments of antagonism and they have a good rapport. I would have preferred a bit more development of their relationship and the ability to watch it mature it a bit more completely.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Ryker is the first in the new Owatonna U. Hockey series by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey. It appears to be a standalone series, but occurs in the same universe as the Harrisburg Railers series and mentions familiar characters and events. So while you won’t be lost if you haven’t read that series, doing so would help make this one more enjoyable. We’ve met Ryker Madsen before. He’s the son of Jared Madsen, who coaches the Railers. He has lived something of a charmed life, being born with natural skill and into a family with enough money to give him the best of everything. He isn’t stuck up by any means, but he does take his position and wealth somewhat for granted. But now that’s he’s older, it’s become harder and harder to find people who care about him as a person and not about the influence his father’s name might bring. It’s hard not to like Ryker. He’s got an irrepressible buoyancy and enough real affection to make him endearing. Jacob has a chip on his shoulder regarding Ryker and while his treatment of Ryker is annoying at times, it’s also believable and understandable. He’s fighting to keep what little he has while Ryker seems to sail through life. Theirs is a sweet, albeit fast moving, romance despite its moments of antagonism and they have a good rapport. I would have preferred a bit more development of their relationship and the ability to watch it mature it a bit more completely.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
October 2, 2018
This book should be read after the sixth book of the Harrisburg Railers series. It follows Jared Madsen’s son Ryker. If you want to know more about them read the first book of the Harrisburg Railers series.
Ryker’s book was fun to read and I loved Ryker so much. It starts 4 months before the accident that happened in the sixth book and we see Ryker being chosen by an NHL team, and if you know the other series, you’ll know that the team he was chosen by is not the best when it comes to being friendly. There’s history there, so again, reading the other series is a must if you want to know more.
Ryker doesn’t know what to do with college. So during the camp to get better at hockey, he meets Jacob, who changes his whole perspective on things.
Jacob in the beginning is not friendly towards Ryker. He thinks that because Ryker has money he’ll be a complete asshole and treat him bad. He is surprised though when Ryker keeps pushing him and wants to know more about him, that he changes slowly his mind about him.
It’s a bit angsty, because Jacob goes back and forth liking and “hating” Ryker. Their relationship is cute and I loved them. The story is fast, the side characters interesting and I can’t wait to read more!
Next book is Scott’s, Ryker’s friend, who he has issues to deal with and I can’t wait for that one.
Ryker’s book was fun to read and I loved Ryker so much. It starts 4 months before the accident that happened in the sixth book and we see Ryker being chosen by an NHL team, and if you know the other series, you’ll know that the team he was chosen by is not the best when it comes to being friendly. There’s history there, so again, reading the other series is a must if you want to know more.
Ryker doesn’t know what to do with college. So during the camp to get better at hockey, he meets Jacob, who changes his whole perspective on things.
Jacob in the beginning is not friendly towards Ryker. He thinks that because Ryker has money he’ll be a complete asshole and treat him bad. He is surprised though when Ryker keeps pushing him and wants to know more about him, that he changes slowly his mind about him.
It’s a bit angsty, because Jacob goes back and forth liking and “hating” Ryker. Their relationship is cute and I loved them. The story is fast, the side characters interesting and I can’t wait to read more!
Next book is Scott’s, Ryker’s friend, who he has issues to deal with and I can’t wait for that one.
October 3, 2018
Hockey and love….
If you love the Harrisburg Railers series like I do then picking up the first of the new spin-off series was a must! Ryker comes from a family of hockey legends so Jacob immediately has a chip on his shoulder. Jacob is a farmer and has to work hard for what little he has. His dream is not of hockey but of running the family farm. If he can live through the work he has to do to get there… When he meets Ryker, someone who has had everything handed to him, the defenses are up…
To be friends, let alone lovers, seems a big stretch right from the start. Ryker pushes and pushes but it takes a lot of persistence to work through Jacob’s attitude. The push and pull between them was quiet but it allowed their inner monologues to shine as they shared their fears, their hopes, their dreams. They were both young but that didn’t mean they didn’t know what was important – family, love, a vocation they loved…
Likable characters, new and old, made this a great transition story and has me hankering for more of this new couple as well as Jared and Ten. If you like hockey and love m/m romance then I highly recommend you check out this series.
September 16, 2018
Ryker was definitely worth waiting on. I could have continued to read about Ryker and Jacob. Jared did an amazing job raising Ryker. Ryker is a guy that you would want to hang out with regardless of who his fathers are. He is a sweetheart and when he loves you he really loves you. Jacob is someone anyone would be proud to call their son. He is so focused and knows what he wants. Ryker and Jacob together are simply awesome. I hope that we are blessed to read about them lots more in the upcoming years. This is definitely a book you want to one click. I promise you won’t be disappointed and you won’t be able to put it down until you’ve read it all. The only question you’ll have is why couldn’t it have been longer. LOVED it.
June 24, 2019
Ohhh! This was definitely much better than the Harrisburg Railers series, sorry to say 🙊 I enjoyed it more is all 😬
It was fun getting to know Ryker. He was in so much of the Railers’ books that it’s like we almost know him but not really. So it was nice to actually get to know him. It’s so easy for him to be the spoilt brat but I’m glad he’s not. Watching him fall in love with Jacob who couldn’t be more different from him was definitely fulfilling. I’d love to see how they sort out their impending diverging futures though.
It was fun getting to know Ryker. He was in so much of the Railers’ books that it’s like we almost know him but not really. So it was nice to actually get to know him. It’s so easy for him to be the spoilt brat but I’m glad he’s not. Watching him fall in love with Jacob who couldn’t be more different from him was definitely fulfilling. I’d love to see how they sort out their impending diverging futures though.
November 29, 2018
Ryker (Owatonna U Hockey #1)
By RJ Scott and V.L. Locey
Love Lane Books, 2018
Four stars
This one moved me to tears, to my surprise. Ryker and Jacob are wonderfully drawn young men. They’re not teenagers any more, but still in college. The one thing that ties them together is their love of hockey; everything else would seem to push them apart. Ryker is the first-round draft pick of an NHL team, son of a famous NHL coach and his famous hockey-star boyfriend (whom we met in another book). He is hockey royalty (not that I ever conceived of such a thing before reading these books). Jacob, however, needs hockey as his means to an end. He’s a Minnesota dairy farm boy, and hockey is paying his way to an agriculture degree. He’s going to be a farmer. He wants to be a farmer. He has to save his family’s farm and give it a future.
The boys meet at an intensive month-long hockey proficiency camp, and instantly they get off on the wrong foot. It’s a tale as old as time, to paraphrase from another kind of fairy tale. Our authors take us through all the steps, thoughtfully and with elegantly drawn dialogue and detail, as Ryker and Jacob begin to understand each other, and allow their feelings to take precedence over their prejudices.
There is no magic solution to the big problem they face, although there are a few emotional surprises along the way. The boys are still in college, and while a trauma (leaked at the very start of the book) binds them to each other, there is no fairy godmother to wave her wand and make their road smooth. This is the start of a series, and how Ryker and Jacob will be part of the next books is anyone’s guess (well, the authors know). All I can say is these are really appealing characters in a well-crafted romance, and so I can only assume that whatever follows will live up to the promise.
By RJ Scott and V.L. Locey
Love Lane Books, 2018
Four stars
This one moved me to tears, to my surprise. Ryker and Jacob are wonderfully drawn young men. They’re not teenagers any more, but still in college. The one thing that ties them together is their love of hockey; everything else would seem to push them apart. Ryker is the first-round draft pick of an NHL team, son of a famous NHL coach and his famous hockey-star boyfriend (whom we met in another book). He is hockey royalty (not that I ever conceived of such a thing before reading these books). Jacob, however, needs hockey as his means to an end. He’s a Minnesota dairy farm boy, and hockey is paying his way to an agriculture degree. He’s going to be a farmer. He wants to be a farmer. He has to save his family’s farm and give it a future.
The boys meet at an intensive month-long hockey proficiency camp, and instantly they get off on the wrong foot. It’s a tale as old as time, to paraphrase from another kind of fairy tale. Our authors take us through all the steps, thoughtfully and with elegantly drawn dialogue and detail, as Ryker and Jacob begin to understand each other, and allow their feelings to take precedence over their prejudices.
There is no magic solution to the big problem they face, although there are a few emotional surprises along the way. The boys are still in college, and while a trauma (leaked at the very start of the book) binds them to each other, there is no fairy godmother to wave her wand and make their road smooth. This is the start of a series, and how Ryker and Jacob will be part of the next books is anyone’s guess (well, the authors know). All I can say is these are really appealing characters in a well-crafted romance, and so I can only assume that whatever follows will live up to the promise.
September 29, 2018
The Blogger Girls
I was such a fan of hockey player’s, Jared and Ten, that I knew I would like the story of Jared’s son, Ryker. What I didn’t expect was the amount of face time we got with Jared and Ten, and the tragedy that befell the little family. Harsh, dear author, harsh. But at the same time, I am now fully invested in both the second book for this series, and the follow up to Jared and Ten’s story. I know, I know, this is the first book in a series, and I am talking in riddles, but trust me, they go hand in hand. You must read Changing Lines (Harrisburg Railers #1) before you read this book.
Ryker and his bf and fellow hockey player, Jacob, are college students, whereas the Harrisburg Railers are older, NHL players. Both couples and series are good in their own right, and though I prefer my men older, these guys were old enough that I didn’t get all icky. As a matter of fact, their sexy times were kind of funny and authentic. But before they get that far, Jacob needs to get over the fact that Ryker is wealthy, since his father and step-father are famous NHL players, and give Ryker a chance. I was a little annoyed at Jacob because he couldn’t see past his own class-ism to give Ryker a real chance. However, once he gets out of his own way, they really clicked.
One of the parts that I really enjoyed was the family dynamic on Jacob’s farm. I was totally expecting to dislike his father, but he surprised me, pleasantly so. Of course, the family drama on Ryker’s side left me foaming at the mouth for more. I need to know how that turns out. So, if you like sports and big hockey boys ramming each other into walls in the rink and in the bedroom, then may I suggest you give this series a try. I think you will love it, too.
Overall Impression: I really liked it!
I was such a fan of hockey player’s, Jared and Ten, that I knew I would like the story of Jared’s son, Ryker. What I didn’t expect was the amount of face time we got with Jared and Ten, and the tragedy that befell the little family. Harsh, dear author, harsh. But at the same time, I am now fully invested in both the second book for this series, and the follow up to Jared and Ten’s story. I know, I know, this is the first book in a series, and I am talking in riddles, but trust me, they go hand in hand. You must read Changing Lines (Harrisburg Railers #1) before you read this book.
Ryker and his bf and fellow hockey player, Jacob, are college students, whereas the Harrisburg Railers are older, NHL players. Both couples and series are good in their own right, and though I prefer my men older, these guys were old enough that I didn’t get all icky. As a matter of fact, their sexy times were kind of funny and authentic. But before they get that far, Jacob needs to get over the fact that Ryker is wealthy, since his father and step-father are famous NHL players, and give Ryker a chance. I was a little annoyed at Jacob because he couldn’t see past his own class-ism to give Ryker a real chance. However, once he gets out of his own way, they really clicked.
One of the parts that I really enjoyed was the family dynamic on Jacob’s farm. I was totally expecting to dislike his father, but he surprised me, pleasantly so. Of course, the family drama on Ryker’s side left me foaming at the mouth for more. I need to know how that turns out. So, if you like sports and big hockey boys ramming each other into walls in the rink and in the bedroom, then may I suggest you give this series a try. I think you will love it, too.
Overall Impression: I really liked it!
October 25, 2018
Stopped reading at 1/3 op the book. It couldn’t really hold my interest. It’s not a badly written story though. The technique is smooth.
October 2, 2018
I love the Harrisburg Railers series, so it was a no-brainer to grab this spinoff opener. Especially, since we already know Ryker a bit, as he is Jared Madsen’s son, who plays a huge part in the Railers series. If you haven’t read those, I highly recommend you start there, because it will give you a much better understanding about some of the other players, namely Jared’s other half, Tennant “Ten” Rowe, NHL hockey superstar, as well as a few of the other players talked about as well.
But this story is about Ryker and his challenges as he navigates college and his career path to the NHL. He’s unhappy where he’s going to school, knows what he’s missing and wants to find, mainly better team dynamics, and wants to experience it before he ends up with the team who drafted him, which just so happens to be the team with the worst reputation, and the one who causes some major upheaval in the last Harrisburg Railers book, which ends up overlapping this one towards the end. Before he makes any decisions, he decides to attend a hockey camp to help keep up his skills. That is where he meets his complete opposite, Jacob.
Jacob is not as taken with Ryker as everyone else is. He is completely put off by the fact that Ryker basically has everything handed to him while Jacob is the complete opposite. Jacob is on a mission to save his family’s dairy farm, something he is even more passionate about than hockey. Hockey is a means to an end for him – he needs it to attend school. He works two jobs in order to help pay for the school and so he can play hockey. Needless to day, he doesn’t have much time for anything else.
Ryker is a bit stymied by Jacob’s attitude toward him, but Ryker is persistent, and it eventually pays off. What a great first time relationship story this was! I loved these two exploring each other and their sexuality. Neither had much experience at all, and I actually enjoyed watching them stumble through what they thought they wanted but didn’t quite know the best ways to accomplish things. They go through some ups and downs, as kids their age all do, but young love prevails. I was a bit disappointed with the ending, however, as it seemed rather abrupt and somewhat up in the air. If the next book was a continuation, I may have brushed that aside, but that doesn’t look to be the case. However, I am really looking forward to Scott’s story, and maybe we will see more of Ryker and Jacob too. I love this writing duo, who have seemingly mastered the hockey trope, and I really can’t wait for the Harrisburg Railers to continue and to see more of those guys again!
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
January 6, 2023
A stocky farm boy and the next NHL wonder-kid meet at a hockey camp.
4 solid stars
Jacob, a openly gay farm boy from a struggling Minnesota family farm, goes to an excellent training camp to better his defensive hockey skills and to study for his college degree in agriculture.
Ryker, wealthy and already a draft pick by an NHL team, attends the same camp to hone his offensive lineman skills.
After arriving in his old, barely running Ford pickup, Jacob notices Ryker exiting an an expensive vehicle, unloading the best hockey equipment money can buy and accompanied by his two famous gay hockey dads.
Can you say, "Hate at first sight?"
Jacob has struggled his whole life to make it to this training camp while working nearly full-time on his parent's struggling dairy farm snd attending college. His life's goals are simple: 1. Complete college with a degree in advanced agriculture so he can bring the farm into the present day and turn a profit. 2. Fine tune his defensive skills as a hockey player.
Ryker has two openly gay hockey dads. One is an NHL star named Tennant, the other his biological father, Jared, an older defensive player. He is also wealthy and has the best of everything given to him. Every player at the camp already knows his name and treats him like royalty.
As fate would have it, the camp's administration has placed Jacob and Ryker in the same small dorm room. Upon their first meeting, sparks fly. Sparks of instant dislike from Jacob who despises Ryker for his wealth, better equipment and popularity. And sparks of confusion and disbelief from Ryker regarding Jacob's hostile attitude towards him.
During the four-week camp, the two enemies/roommates become friends and mentors to each other. By the end of camp, the men have become lovers with a budding relationship between them.
With a humorous and wonderful supporting cast of characters, other plotlines are brought together during this training camp. Ryker finds Jacob's teammates from his college to be friendly and a more cohesive team than his own. Jacob is determined to earn his degree, with both hockey and Ryker coming in second in importance in his life.
So much more occurs when Ryker transfers to Jacob's college to be on his team, as well as be near Jacob. Upon seeing Ryker on his campus, Jacob is NOT happy to see him.
What follows is a wonderful story of Ryker's bi-sexual awakening, Jacob's gradual release of his true feelings and a tragic on-ice mishap that brings the two men closer together. With witty dialogue and plenty of heat, the authors create a world of acceptance, forgiveness and respect that forms an entertaining and educational experience for the reader. Locational descriptions are wonderfully and vividly brought to life. And ZERO editing errors!
If you enjoy hockey and heat (the irony!!!), this book is for you.
4 solid stars
Jacob, a openly gay farm boy from a struggling Minnesota family farm, goes to an excellent training camp to better his defensive hockey skills and to study for his college degree in agriculture.
Ryker, wealthy and already a draft pick by an NHL team, attends the same camp to hone his offensive lineman skills.
After arriving in his old, barely running Ford pickup, Jacob notices Ryker exiting an an expensive vehicle, unloading the best hockey equipment money can buy and accompanied by his two famous gay hockey dads.
Can you say, "Hate at first sight?"
Jacob has struggled his whole life to make it to this training camp while working nearly full-time on his parent's struggling dairy farm snd attending college. His life's goals are simple: 1. Complete college with a degree in advanced agriculture so he can bring the farm into the present day and turn a profit. 2. Fine tune his defensive skills as a hockey player.
Ryker has two openly gay hockey dads. One is an NHL star named Tennant, the other his biological father, Jared, an older defensive player. He is also wealthy and has the best of everything given to him. Every player at the camp already knows his name and treats him like royalty.
As fate would have it, the camp's administration has placed Jacob and Ryker in the same small dorm room. Upon their first meeting, sparks fly. Sparks of instant dislike from Jacob who despises Ryker for his wealth, better equipment and popularity. And sparks of confusion and disbelief from Ryker regarding Jacob's hostile attitude towards him.
During the four-week camp, the two enemies/roommates become friends and mentors to each other. By the end of camp, the men have become lovers with a budding relationship between them.
With a humorous and wonderful supporting cast of characters, other plotlines are brought together during this training camp. Ryker finds Jacob's teammates from his college to be friendly and a more cohesive team than his own. Jacob is determined to earn his degree, with both hockey and Ryker coming in second in importance in his life.
So much more occurs when Ryker transfers to Jacob's college to be on his team, as well as be near Jacob. Upon seeing Ryker on his campus, Jacob is NOT happy to see him.
What follows is a wonderful story of Ryker's bi-sexual awakening, Jacob's gradual release of his true feelings and a tragic on-ice mishap that brings the two men closer together. With witty dialogue and plenty of heat, the authors create a world of acceptance, forgiveness and respect that forms an entertaining and educational experience for the reader. Locational descriptions are wonderfully and vividly brought to life. And ZERO editing errors!
If you enjoy hockey and heat (the irony!!!), this book is for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews