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The Carlisles #3
Checking It Twice
Closeted professional hockey player Eric Belanger is falling hard for an out-and-proud male model. He’s unable to resist Dorian’s charm and pushing personal boundaries he never thought he’d cross. But Dorian is the kind of guy who deserves someone who isn’t afraid to be himself. Eric’s fears about what coming out will do to his career clash with the future he hopes to build with Dorian. He knows he’ll eventually have to make a choice.
Dorian Carlisle knows better than to date a man who wants to keep him a secret, but there’s something about Eric he can’t ignore. So he’ll take the risk, and it’ll be all right, because this isn’t a forever romance. He’s happy to live in the moment. But somehow, at some point, feelings sneak up on him and he’s not okay anymore. At a breaking point, Dorian must also make a decision. Their time together will either be the start of something wonderful or nothing more than a happy memory.
Dorian Carlisle knows better than to date a man who wants to keep him a secret, but there’s something about Eric he can’t ignore. So he’ll take the risk, and it’ll be all right, because this isn’t a forever romance. He’s happy to live in the moment. But somehow, at some point, feelings sneak up on him and he’s not okay anymore. At a breaking point, Dorian must also make a decision. Their time together will either be the start of something wonderful or nothing more than a happy memory.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2016
18 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Meg Harding
40 books112 followersMeg Harding is a graduate student, currently studying MA Publishing in the UK. She plans to continue on to become an editor, all while continuing to write. When she isn't writing she enjoys the theatre, concerts, and lazing about in front of the TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 27, 2016
Checking It Twice (The Carlisles, #3) by Meg Harding
is the story of a closeted hockey player and an out and proud male model. They met during a photo shoot, and they were attracted to each other from the get-go. After their first meeting what ensues is a sweet love story with a sprinkle of angst.
My highlights:
1. I liked the characters. I loved Eric's awkwardness-I thought it was endearing. And I loved Dorian, as well. He was kind and patient- but no a pushover.
2. I enjoyed the relationship development. It was fun and sweet. They had great chemistry.
3. I appreciated that there wasn't any over the top drama.
4. The end was romantic.
BUT the overall story didn't stand out for me. I felt the first half of the book was stronger than the second half. I loved the beginning how they met and how their relationship developed- but somewhere along the way my attention started to wane. I don't know it was missing something for me.
Would I recommend it? Yes, I would because overall it was a good story.
Can this book be read out of order? Yes, I haven't read the first two and never felt lost.
All in all, this was a pleasant story, and it provided a much-needed break from real life. 3.5 Stars.
My highlights:
1. I liked the characters. I loved Eric's awkwardness-I thought it was endearing. And I loved Dorian, as well. He was kind and patient- but no a pushover.
2. I enjoyed the relationship development. It was fun and sweet. They had great chemistry.
3. I appreciated that there wasn't any over the top drama.
4. The end was romantic.
BUT the overall story didn't stand out for me. I felt the first half of the book was stronger than the second half. I loved the beginning how they met and how their relationship developed- but somewhere along the way my attention started to wane. I don't know it was missing something for me.
Would I recommend it? Yes, I would because overall it was a good story.
Can this book be read out of order? Yes, I haven't read the first two and never felt lost.
All in all, this was a pleasant story, and it provided a much-needed break from real life. 3.5 Stars.
November 2, 2016
Checking It Twice is the third installment of the Carlisles series. Though I suppose it could be read as a standalone, I wouldn't recommend it.
I really enjoyed the story, which is from both Eric and Dorian's POV.
Professional hockey player Eric Belanger's deep in the closet, including from his family and teammates. Only two of his friends know he's gay and that's only because they walked in on him the one time he was with a guy.
I really enjoyed the somewhat awkward romantic beginnings between Eric and Dorian, especially as Dorian doesn't realize that Eric's even hitting on him at first.
I thought the anxiety Eric feels about possibly coming out, and how that could affect his relationships with his family or being able to play professional hockey, was realistically portrayed. But ultimately, I really enjoyed seeing Dorian fall in love, but not lose himself in Eric's closet.
I always find it hard to read stories where a character has angst or fear of coming out and reading the different ways that fear can destroy a relationship. It generally makes it just a little less romantic than I like my "romances" to be. But Harding has a way of writing her characters so I really care about them and just want them to be happy. It's always a good thing when an author can suck me in to a story that much.
My only complaint is the same plot device as was in the first two books is used. Which, I'm not going to lie, I find frustrating, even though it's totally justified in happening and, in this case, handled well.
In the end the story was realistic enough to have me biting my lip and praying for a happy ending. Though we get the HEA, it's hard-won and nothing came easy for Dorian or Eric. This is a light-to-medium-angst, sweet romance with some humor, some passion, and a wonderful HEA.
It's a good addition to the series and I'm really looking forward to seeing who the hottie Denver's got his eye on next!
Advanced Review Galley copy of Checking It Twice (The Carlisles #3) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
I really enjoyed the story, which is from both Eric and Dorian's POV.
Professional hockey player Eric Belanger's deep in the closet, including from his family and teammates. Only two of his friends know he's gay and that's only because they walked in on him the one time he was with a guy.
I really enjoyed the somewhat awkward romantic beginnings between Eric and Dorian, especially as Dorian doesn't realize that Eric's even hitting on him at first.
“I wanted to make sure this was okay.”
Dorian stares at him. “I drove from New York to see you. I’ve started watching hockey. I’m kissing you back. We talk every day. How many more clues do you need?”
“Oh,” says Eric, cheeks flaming. “Well, when you put it that way….”
I thought the anxiety Eric feels about possibly coming out, and how that could affect his relationships with his family or being able to play professional hockey, was realistically portrayed. But ultimately, I really enjoyed seeing Dorian fall in love, but not lose himself in Eric's closet.
Eric rubs a towel over his face, sighing as he gets the stinging sweat out of his eyes. He needs to take a page from everyone else’s book. He’s got plenty of models for healthy relationships to look at—and nonhealthy ones that he should avoid at all costs. He’ll just mimic the good stuff. That’s easy enough. If he makes himself look fantastic, then maybe Dorian will be able to overlook the not so great stuff. Like how Eric is so deep in the closet he might be lost in Narnia.
I always find it hard to read stories where a character has angst or fear of coming out and reading the different ways that fear can destroy a relationship. It generally makes it just a little less romantic than I like my "romances" to be. But Harding has a way of writing her characters so I really care about them and just want them to be happy. It's always a good thing when an author can suck me in to a story that much.
Dorian always thought he’d feel a little lighter when he finally fell in love. Maybe he’s watched too many movies, read too many books. This doesn’t feel anything like that. Mostly he feels scared.
My only complaint is the same plot device as was in the first two books is used. Which, I'm not going to lie, I find frustrating, even though it's totally justified in happening and, in this case, handled well.
In the end the story was realistic enough to have me biting my lip and praying for a happy ending. Though we get the HEA, it's hard-won and nothing came easy for Dorian or Eric. This is a light-to-medium-angst, sweet romance with some humor, some passion, and a wonderful HEA.
It's a good addition to the series and I'm really looking forward to seeing who the hottie Denver's got his eye on next!
Advanced Review Galley copy of Checking It Twice (The Carlisles #3) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
February 20, 2018
***3.75 Stars***
This was a really cute, slightly angsty, quick read. And a great addition to a series I'm really enjoying.
Dorian and Eric were absolutely adorable together. From Dorian's nervous rambling, to how shy and awkward Eric gets when he's stumbling to say what he wants or needs....there were a bunch of moments that had me laughing or awww'ing.
And I think the author did a great job of making you feel where both man were coming from. Eric's nervousness about being found out were palpable. You could feel his fear and uncomfortablness while reading and my heart really went out to him.
But at the same time, I understood Dorian's frustrations and disappointments. He compromised with Eric's wishes, at times at the price of his own happiness, because he didn't want to let go of how wonderful things were when the outside world didn't factor into their relationship.
My heart hurt for both guys, but I love how honest they were with each other (mainly...there were a few instances where I felt one of them could have spoken up with how they felt).
I do have to say, and I don't know if it's this author's style or if it's something that's a genuine struggle with her stories, but the endings to the books in this series are clunky, rushed and awkward with their time jumps. So far every book in this series has had a time jump and the transition pulls me out of the story every time. I lose that emotion that was building when we jump ahead.
Also, the writing was kind of stilted and choppy. I was able to overlook it for the most part because I was enjoying the story, but it's definitely noticable.
This is a series I'm really enjoying and recommend if you're looking for something quick and cute to read.
November 1, 2016
This third installment of the Carlisles series was a really enjoyable experience for me. I've been thinking about what it is about Meg Harding's writing that appeals to me, and it comes down to realism. And not in big ways - though there's that. She manages to always have the day to day nuances of a relationship smoothly incorporated into her stories in a very pleasing and realistic manner, imo. Because the romance genre is so unrealistic at its core most times, it's a big pleaser for me when realism is exacerbated as much as possible within a story.
Dorian and Eric meet at a hockey photo shoot. Dorian is a professional model, and Eric is a professional hockey player. There is awkward initial communication (is he even gay? would he think it's weird if I call and ask him to hang out?), which I smiled a lot throughout. This is normal for everyday people. It's how a large portion of people feel during that initial "meet" and "feel them out" part of dating. I ate that part up!
Eric and Dorian are very honest with each other about where they're at for a relationship. Eric is in the closet, with both family and career. Only two people (friends) know that he's gay. Dorian is out and has no interest in being anyone's secret, so if they're going to date, he will tell his "people" (family, friends, etc.), and he will not be a straight friend if any of Eric's "people" ask. They both know that their relationship doesn't have a long-term label on it because of their two very problematic places at war with each other. But they agree to enjoy it while it lasts because they genuinely enjoy each other's company.
There were no misunderstandings. There were no miscommunications. And that's so refreshing! This story was, to me, a realistic portrayal of what can happen when two people genuinely like each other and one is in the closet while the other very much isn't. Each time the issue came up, they were open and honest with each other about it.
As it goes with any romance novel, there comes a tipping point. They both knew it wouldn't last, and as they begin to feel very strongly for each other, it reaches a head. And everyone, especially Dorian and Eric, knew that it would.
There seems to be a pattern with Harding having her MC's take a "break" in this series. That may bother some, but it doesn't bother me in the slightest - as long as its done in a manner serving to the overall plot and flow of the story. It fit well here, and I appreciated the non-manufactured angst of it all. It could only happen that way for Dorian and Eric.
I enjoyed this one more than Book 2, but a little less than Book 1, which is still my favorite. Readers will get a great glimpse into the entire Carlisle bunch, which is always fun. James, Bastien, Aaron, Jackson, Denver, and Georgina all make cameos and I love their insight and camaraderie. Excellent addition to the series, and it looks like we get Denver's story next!
Dorian and Eric meet at a hockey photo shoot. Dorian is a professional model, and Eric is a professional hockey player. There is awkward initial communication (is he even gay? would he think it's weird if I call and ask him to hang out?), which I smiled a lot throughout. This is normal for everyday people. It's how a large portion of people feel during that initial "meet" and "feel them out" part of dating. I ate that part up!
Eric and Dorian are very honest with each other about where they're at for a relationship. Eric is in the closet, with both family and career. Only two people (friends) know that he's gay. Dorian is out and has no interest in being anyone's secret, so if they're going to date, he will tell his "people" (family, friends, etc.), and he will not be a straight friend if any of Eric's "people" ask. They both know that their relationship doesn't have a long-term label on it because of their two very problematic places at war with each other. But they agree to enjoy it while it lasts because they genuinely enjoy each other's company.
There were no misunderstandings. There were no miscommunications. And that's so refreshing! This story was, to me, a realistic portrayal of what can happen when two people genuinely like each other and one is in the closet while the other very much isn't. Each time the issue came up, they were open and honest with each other about it.
As it goes with any romance novel, there comes a tipping point. They both knew it wouldn't last, and as they begin to feel very strongly for each other, it reaches a head. And everyone, especially Dorian and Eric, knew that it would.
There seems to be a pattern with Harding having her MC's take a "break" in this series. That may bother some, but it doesn't bother me in the slightest - as long as its done in a manner serving to the overall plot and flow of the story. It fit well here, and I appreciated the non-manufactured angst of it all. It could only happen that way for Dorian and Eric.
I enjoyed this one more than Book 2, but a little less than Book 1, which is still my favorite. Readers will get a great glimpse into the entire Carlisle bunch, which is always fun. James, Bastien, Aaron, Jackson, Denver, and Georgina all make cameos and I love their insight and camaraderie. Excellent addition to the series, and it looks like we get Denver's story next!
December 4, 2016
Probably more me than the book.
Let me try to explain my feels on this without sounding like a complete asshole. I'm a self-proclaimed sports junkie. Sports and athletes have been a part of my life since I was a mini Cupcake. I get the athletic mindset-the higher up the ladder the higher the stakes and the tougher the competition. I get the need to eliminate as many obstacles within your power to control, Johnny Manziel notwithstanding, to get to (and stay in) the pros. I also get that being publicly out isn't an option for most players. I also get that people have the right to come out in their own time, in their own ways and that should never be dictated by another.
On paper I get Eric but I didn't particularly like him. I wish I understood him more and maybe that's part of my problem. I don't get why he can't tell his family. I don't get why he was rude AF to the Carlisles. And more than anything else it made me sad. Sad that he's so unhappy and constantly petrified that someone will find out. Sad that this is the world we live in. Sad that people still give a shit who random strangers fuck or don't within the privacy of their own homes (or wherever). Sad that this is probably only going to get worse under a Trump/Pence administration. I admit this election has fucked me up in weird ways so at any other time this book could've easily been a 4 Heart read, but right now, in this moment I didn't want to be reminded that this is the world we live in. I didn't want to be sad.
However, there were things that I really liked about this book, most of all Dorian. Dorian is so patient and understanding with Eric that my heart went out to him. He kept saying when things were good they were great between them and some of that does translate to the page, but I mostly just felt like Eric wasn't good enough for him. He has the biggest heart and I commend him for letting bygones be bygones because holding a grudge is petty and would cause unnecessary drama, but he didn't deserve to be shoved back in the closet and made to feel like a dirty little secret. If there to had been a better balance between Eric and Dorian pre and post coming out that probably would've swayed me to a higher rating. I needed more of them happy and reunited and reestablishing their relationship than the two chapters I got. As it stands Eric's 180º felt too rushed for me to really invest in them and their HEA.
It probably seems like an odd thing to say given everything I just said but, this book really isn't heavy on the feels or depressing.
Also, their sex life is scorching. They may have trouble pretty much everywhere else but in the bedroom they click. HARD. Good gravy. That whole last scene with the spanking and biting and no hands... And there's a size difference between them that Eric relies heavily upon to my delight.
Eric's teammates were all great especially Jaromir who amused me to no end. I actually would've liked more locker room/team dynamics since they provided some much needed levity. The Carlisle family can never have too much page time. Ever. This one was Denver heavy and has me excited for his book.
I'm still invested in this series and I did actually like this despite all the kaka negativity I just spewed. I think this is mostly just my personal baggage getting in the way of what otherwise would've been a solid read, so your mileage will most certainly vary.
Recommend to fans of the series and romance that's not too weighty.
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
Let me try to explain my feels on this without sounding like a complete asshole. I'm a self-proclaimed sports junkie. Sports and athletes have been a part of my life since I was a mini Cupcake. I get the athletic mindset-the higher up the ladder the higher the stakes and the tougher the competition. I get the need to eliminate as many obstacles within your power to control, Johnny Manziel notwithstanding, to get to (and stay in) the pros. I also get that being publicly out isn't an option for most players. I also get that people have the right to come out in their own time, in their own ways and that should never be dictated by another.
On paper I get Eric but I didn't particularly like him. I wish I understood him more and maybe that's part of my problem. I don't get why he can't tell his family. I don't get why he was rude AF to the Carlisles. And more than anything else it made me sad. Sad that he's so unhappy and constantly petrified that someone will find out. Sad that this is the world we live in. Sad that people still give a shit who random strangers fuck or don't within the privacy of their own homes (or wherever). Sad that this is probably only going to get worse under a Trump/Pence administration. I admit this election has fucked me up in weird ways so at any other time this book could've easily been a 4 Heart read, but right now, in this moment I didn't want to be reminded that this is the world we live in. I didn't want to be sad.
However, there were things that I really liked about this book, most of all Dorian. Dorian is so patient and understanding with Eric that my heart went out to him. He kept saying when things were good they were great between them and some of that does translate to the page, but I mostly just felt like Eric wasn't good enough for him. He has the biggest heart and I commend him for letting bygones be bygones because holding a grudge is petty and would cause unnecessary drama, but he didn't deserve to be shoved back in the closet and made to feel like a dirty little secret. If there to had been a better balance between Eric and Dorian pre and post coming out that probably would've swayed me to a higher rating. I needed more of them happy and reunited and reestablishing their relationship than the two chapters I got. As it stands Eric's 180º felt too rushed for me to really invest in them and their HEA.
It probably seems like an odd thing to say given everything I just said but, this book really isn't heavy on the feels or depressing.
Also, their sex life is scorching. They may have trouble pretty much everywhere else but in the bedroom they click. HARD. Good gravy. That whole last scene with the spanking and biting and no hands... And there's a size difference between them that Eric relies heavily upon to my delight.
Eric's teammates were all great especially Jaromir who amused me to no end. I actually would've liked more locker room/team dynamics since they provided some much needed levity. The Carlisle family can never have too much page time. Ever. This one was Denver heavy and has me excited for his book.
I'm still invested in this series and I did actually like this despite all the kaka negativity I just spewed. I think this is mostly just my personal baggage getting in the way of what otherwise would've been a solid read, so your mileage will most certainly vary.
Recommend to fans of the series and romance that's not too weighty.
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
November 27, 2016
3.75 stars
I am not going to lie … the plot in this book is pretty cliché. What can you expect when you combine a deep-in-the-closet hockey player and an out-and-proud model? At one point, the characters will get to a point where: a) they break-up because the closeted athlete is too scared to acknowledge their relationship, or b) they will get outed … in any case they will be ‘out’ by the end of the book … if you are looking for a happily ever after of course.
Other than that high degree level of predictability, I also wasn’t too happy with Harding’s penchant to use time-jumping as a plot device to move the story forward. She did that with the previous book, Will You Be My Escort. She did it again here; which made me wonder if Harding somehow had a problem prolonging the story somewhat.
HOWEVER… despite all that, I will firmly say that Checking It Twice is my favorite title so far from The Carlisles series. I thought Dorian and Eric had lovely chemistry. I loved their initial meeting, how Dorian ended up enjoying hockey, and trying to find out more about the game (thank you, Wikipedia!). Dorian is adorable and so far he is my favorite Carlisle man as well.
So yes, Eric is in the closet – although I wonder what strongly drives his fear considering that Eric’s family seems to be open-minded as well as his team mates – but at the same time, he is also trying to do better when he’s with Dorian. He is still willing to come with Dorian to meet the Carlisles. He plans romantic dates to spend time with Dorian. Eric is clearly on his way to falling in love. I couldn’t completely feel annoyed with him.
Despite the short angst of break-up, I thought the book was fluffily entertaining. I cannot wait to read Denver’s story next!
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I am not going to lie … the plot in this book is pretty cliché. What can you expect when you combine a deep-in-the-closet hockey player and an out-and-proud model? At one point, the characters will get to a point where: a) they break-up because the closeted athlete is too scared to acknowledge their relationship, or b) they will get outed … in any case they will be ‘out’ by the end of the book … if you are looking for a happily ever after of course.
Other than that high degree level of predictability, I also wasn’t too happy with Harding’s penchant to use time-jumping as a plot device to move the story forward. She did that with the previous book, Will You Be My Escort. She did it again here; which made me wonder if Harding somehow had a problem prolonging the story somewhat.
HOWEVER… despite all that, I will firmly say that Checking It Twice is my favorite title so far from The Carlisles series. I thought Dorian and Eric had lovely chemistry. I loved their initial meeting, how Dorian ended up enjoying hockey, and trying to find out more about the game (thank you, Wikipedia!). Dorian is adorable and so far he is my favorite Carlisle man as well.
So yes, Eric is in the closet – although I wonder what strongly drives his fear considering that Eric’s family seems to be open-minded as well as his team mates – but at the same time, he is also trying to do better when he’s with Dorian. He is still willing to come with Dorian to meet the Carlisles. He plans romantic dates to spend time with Dorian. Eric is clearly on his way to falling in love. I couldn’t completely feel annoyed with him.
Despite the short angst of break-up, I thought the book was fluffily entertaining. I cannot wait to read Denver’s story next!
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 23, 2017
I hit my stride with Meg Harding, and I gobbled up her 'Carlisles' series in a few days.
Yes, the whole series follows the same storyline: MCs meet --> lovey-dovey --> crisis --> talking to clever sister and/or brothers --> HFN.
But it REALLY worked for me, especially because Meg Harding is funny AND her characters are fleshed out.
Will definitely read these books again, and I recommend them if you want to read something lighthearted and fun.
Yes, the whole series follows the same storyline: MCs meet --> lovey-dovey --> crisis --> talking to clever sister and/or brothers --> HFN.
But it REALLY worked for me, especially because Meg Harding is funny AND her characters are fleshed out.
Will definitely read these books again, and I recommend them if you want to read something lighthearted and fun.
February 18, 2021
3 stars-ish?
I like the characters. Very adult responses and reactions. I especially like Dorian but I honestly don’t really see at which point in time Eric and Dorian fell in love 🤔 I also didn’t get swept up in the story. And I’m kinda bummed about that.
I love hockey romances and there’s a small amount of hockey here. Not as much as I would like but it’s...acceptable. So, wish I enjoyed this more. It should have been right up my alley! 😕
I like the characters. Very adult responses and reactions. I especially like Dorian but I honestly don’t really see at which point in time Eric and Dorian fell in love 🤔 I also didn’t get swept up in the story. And I’m kinda bummed about that.
I love hockey romances and there’s a small amount of hockey here. Not as much as I would like but it’s...acceptable. So, wish I enjoyed this more. It should have been right up my alley! 😕
December 14, 2019
The Carlisle brothers are at it again. This time it’s one of the twins’ turn and things are more complicated and less likely to lead to a happy ending than ever. In this series of seemingly diametrically opposed partners, the first two pairings were difficult enough. James, the food critic, has found happiness with Bastien, a restaurant owner. James’s brother Jackson is now together with his ex-pretend boyfriend, former escort Aaron. And now that it’s Dorian’s turn, he doesn’t pick an easy path to romance and love either: with Dorian a model and Eric a professional ice hockey player, they are heading for disaster of all kinds. The result is a story full of heartbreak, lots of errors in judgment, a few soul-searching moments, and more than one surprise.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 30, 2016
Eric is a an adorkable hockey player who meets Dorian doing promo work for an advertiser. He’s in the closet and barely had any sexual experience but knows he wants to try something with Dorian. He figures that Dorian, more than many others he might run into, has very little motivation to try to “ruin him” or out him for being gay and is therefore not only hot, but maybe safe, too?
Dorian knows it’s a bad idea to hook up with someone as closeted as Eric but he can’t help but be attracted. Once they start seeing each other, he finds he’s as attracted to what’s inside of Eric as what’s on the outside.
**
I really liked the way Dorian handles Eric’s sexual inexperience (and Eric, too for that matter). It felt both respectful and bossy and realistic, too. (Not everybody is perfect in bed together the first time they touch!)
I was glad to see Dorian stand up for himself and not let Eric’s unwillingness to be out pull him back into the closet. I'm not sure how Eric thought hanging out with Dorian "as a friend" wouldn't look suspicious, but I was glad Dorian stood up for himself with Eric's friends and hockey mates. That, too, felt authentic. The push-pull of wanting Eric but hating it at the same time.
I still find the present tense style of writing to be really bulky and awkward and it’s definitely not my favorite as it pulls me out of the story time and again stumbling over phrases that just don’t sound right.
This was a lot better than book two, but I still like book one the most in this series.
I’m excited about Denver’s story but not sure if I’ll pick it up to read, mostly because I just don’t like that writing style – so much!
Fans of the series will be pleased with this (though it absolutely works as a stand-alone) as will fans of Hockey player romances.
4 of 5 stars
Dorian knows it’s a bad idea to hook up with someone as closeted as Eric but he can’t help but be attracted. Once they start seeing each other, he finds he’s as attracted to what’s inside of Eric as what’s on the outside.
**
I really liked the way Dorian handles Eric’s sexual inexperience (and Eric, too for that matter). It felt both respectful and bossy and realistic, too. (Not everybody is perfect in bed together the first time they touch!)
I was glad to see Dorian stand up for himself and not let Eric’s unwillingness to be out pull him back into the closet. I'm not sure how Eric thought hanging out with Dorian "as a friend" wouldn't look suspicious, but I was glad Dorian stood up for himself with Eric's friends and hockey mates. That, too, felt authentic. The push-pull of wanting Eric but hating it at the same time.
I still find the present tense style of writing to be really bulky and awkward and it’s definitely not my favorite as it pulls me out of the story time and again stumbling over phrases that just don’t sound right.
This was a lot better than book two, but I still like book one the most in this series.
I’m excited about Denver’s story but not sure if I’ll pick it up to read, mostly because I just don’t like that writing style – so much!
Fans of the series will be pleased with this (though it absolutely works as a stand-alone) as will fans of Hockey player romances.
4 of 5 stars
November 20, 2016
3.5 stars
Eric and Dorian meet on a photo shoot and are immediately attracted to each other. Eric is in the closet and doesn't have the first idea about flirting or dating but he clumsily tries to get to know Dorian. There was something charming about how Eric bumbles his way through things. Dorian is a little older and at first has no intention of getting to know Eric because he knows dating a closeted professional athlete is going to make him unhappy in the long term. As the story unfolds you understand why Dorian ends up falling for Eric and you understand the inner turmoil that Eric is going through.
This story is both a bit angsty and a sweet love story. I really liked both of the main characters and each of them were really likable guys. I understood both of the points of view and I felt for both of them. There are a host of side characters in Dorian's family and Eric's family and teammates. All of them were well done and there were no stereotypical bad guys as there often are in these types of stories. Some of the characters were ones who were featured in the first two books of the series.
I really enjoyed this book. I hadn't read the first two books in the series so I wasn't sure what to expect but this went really well for me. Even though I hadn't read books 1 & 2 I was easily able to follow along. This book is fine as a standalone. I liked this one enough that I will go back and read the previous books.
Eric and Dorian meet on a photo shoot and are immediately attracted to each other. Eric is in the closet and doesn't have the first idea about flirting or dating but he clumsily tries to get to know Dorian. There was something charming about how Eric bumbles his way through things. Dorian is a little older and at first has no intention of getting to know Eric because he knows dating a closeted professional athlete is going to make him unhappy in the long term. As the story unfolds you understand why Dorian ends up falling for Eric and you understand the inner turmoil that Eric is going through.
This story is both a bit angsty and a sweet love story. I really liked both of the main characters and each of them were really likable guys. I understood both of the points of view and I felt for both of them. There are a host of side characters in Dorian's family and Eric's family and teammates. All of them were well done and there were no stereotypical bad guys as there often are in these types of stories. Some of the characters were ones who were featured in the first two books of the series.
I really enjoyed this book. I hadn't read the first two books in the series so I wasn't sure what to expect but this went really well for me. Even though I hadn't read books 1 & 2 I was easily able to follow along. This book is fine as a standalone. I liked this one enough that I will go back and read the previous books.
November 22, 2016
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
What a fantastic hockey story! I loved Eric, the closeted enforcer and he couldn’t be more perfectly or more improbably matched to Dorian, a flamboyant supermodel.
I loved both of these men and their enormous extended families. I think I probably had more empathy for Dorian, the man who refused to be a closeted dirty secret, but beautiful bearish Eric had me weak at the knees.
I loved Eric’s teammates and I enjoyed the glimpses of hockey and hockey life. There are some complicated ideas explored here. Maybe it isn’t the players or the sport being homophobic. Maybe it is just a general fear that keeps everyone closeted - and maybe that hurts the playing ability of closeted players.
This is a sweet and potentially simple sports romance with surprisingly complex characters. The central relationship is also surprisingly mature. The story manages to be complicated without every becoming angsty. It is beautifully written and I really enjoyed it.
What a fantastic hockey story! I loved Eric, the closeted enforcer and he couldn’t be more perfectly or more improbably matched to Dorian, a flamboyant supermodel.
I loved both of these men and their enormous extended families. I think I probably had more empathy for Dorian, the man who refused to be a closeted dirty secret, but beautiful bearish Eric had me weak at the knees.
I loved Eric’s teammates and I enjoyed the glimpses of hockey and hockey life. There are some complicated ideas explored here. Maybe it isn’t the players or the sport being homophobic. Maybe it is just a general fear that keeps everyone closeted - and maybe that hurts the playing ability of closeted players.
This is a sweet and potentially simple sports romance with surprisingly complex characters. The central relationship is also surprisingly mature. The story manages to be complicated without every becoming angsty. It is beautifully written and I really enjoyed it.
December 21, 2019
this was super cute
okay okay i woke up this morning and thought, what if i read one of the books i just saved last night? just for a few chapters? lol who was i kidding, i read it in one sitting, right after i opened my eyes. good book to start the day, i'm so in love with how much feels they have for each others, i cried, i smiled, i laughed. the break up part was a little hard to read, but i think that was necessary, and i love how easy they're once they fix things up. *sigh happily* now i can enjoy my day with smiles on my face.
okay okay i woke up this morning and thought, what if i read one of the books i just saved last night? just for a few chapters? lol who was i kidding, i read it in one sitting, right after i opened my eyes. good book to start the day, i'm so in love with how much feels they have for each others, i cried, i smiled, i laughed. the break up part was a little hard to read, but i think that was necessary, and i love how easy they're once they fix things up. *sigh happily* now i can enjoy my day with smiles on my face.
February 6, 2017
This is my first of the series. It's great as a stand alone. Love the characters. And, the best part? HOCKEY!
November 26, 2016
What starts off as a possible fling with an in the closet hockey player turns into so much more without either noticing it. By the time they do notice it, it is too late and someone is bound to be hurt.
Dorian is out and proud model and does not hide who he is. Either you accept him or you don't. That is just the type of person that he is. He never figured himself the type of person that would have a thing with someone in the closet because he just does not hide who he is. He knows that eventually it will end badly with either the two of the going their seperate ways or with the cat being let out of the bag by accident. So why is it he finds himself getting sucked into what he said that he would never do with in the closet Eric? That is because Dorian knows from the moment that they meet that he feels something different for Eric than he has ever felt for anyone else. He cannot put his finger on it but he finds that he cannot resist getting to know Eric better.
Eric knows with him playing hockey thatnit is next to impossible to come out. Eric worries about the repercussions of it he did come out and he is not willing to give up his dream. When Eric meets Forian he is too drawn to Dorian just as Dorian was drawn to him. Eric starts doing things he would normally never do. But it is the constant fear of his team mates and his family finding out that keeps holding him back from getting closer to Dorian and those reasons are also what leads him to pushing Dorian too far about being in the closet one too many times. Dorian has had all he can take of hiding and in essence going back in the closet himself to please Eric. Dorian starts to notmlike who he is and even though it hurts he knows that it is over between them.
Eventually Eric is going to have to decide if he wants to live his life in hiding or if he is going to man up not only for Dorian 's sake but also for his own. The question is, is it too late to show Dorian just how much he means to Eric or is there still a chance he could make things right and get back the man that he has fallen for?
.This was a great read. There is so much back and forth from Eric on him hiding his sexuality that I got dizzy at some points. But regardless this book is a good example of how hard it can be for someone to come out to notninky their family but to other people too such as friends. It was definitely a struggle for not only Eric but for Dorian who in my opinion was a very patient and understanding person. I really enjoyed reading not only their struggle to find their happy mediums but also their ups and downs.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Dorian is out and proud model and does not hide who he is. Either you accept him or you don't. That is just the type of person that he is. He never figured himself the type of person that would have a thing with someone in the closet because he just does not hide who he is. He knows that eventually it will end badly with either the two of the going their seperate ways or with the cat being let out of the bag by accident. So why is it he finds himself getting sucked into what he said that he would never do with in the closet Eric? That is because Dorian knows from the moment that they meet that he feels something different for Eric than he has ever felt for anyone else. He cannot put his finger on it but he finds that he cannot resist getting to know Eric better.
Eric knows with him playing hockey thatnit is next to impossible to come out. Eric worries about the repercussions of it he did come out and he is not willing to give up his dream. When Eric meets Forian he is too drawn to Dorian just as Dorian was drawn to him. Eric starts doing things he would normally never do. But it is the constant fear of his team mates and his family finding out that keeps holding him back from getting closer to Dorian and those reasons are also what leads him to pushing Dorian too far about being in the closet one too many times. Dorian has had all he can take of hiding and in essence going back in the closet himself to please Eric. Dorian starts to notmlike who he is and even though it hurts he knows that it is over between them.
Eventually Eric is going to have to decide if he wants to live his life in hiding or if he is going to man up not only for Dorian 's sake but also for his own. The question is, is it too late to show Dorian just how much he means to Eric or is there still a chance he could make things right and get back the man that he has fallen for?
.This was a great read. There is so much back and forth from Eric on him hiding his sexuality that I got dizzy at some points. But regardless this book is a good example of how hard it can be for someone to come out to notninky their family but to other people too such as friends. It was definitely a struggle for not only Eric but for Dorian who in my opinion was a very patient and understanding person. I really enjoyed reading not only their struggle to find their happy mediums but also their ups and downs.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
September 9, 2019
I love hockey romances, and Meg Harding's Checking It Twice is a fabulous one.
Eric meets Dorian during a photo shoot. Dorian is flustered by the hot, hunky hockey, while Eric is instantly drawn to the adorable model. From the start, Dorian is just the cutest. It's so cute that he doesn't know anything about sports, but is stuck with a hockey player who's interested in him. And Eric is just precious with his inexperience with guys.
I love stories with closeted athletes, and Eric is just that, as he's afraid to come out in the tough world of hockey. Their story is full of fear and doubts. And hot hockey players.
Written in present tense, it drives me crazy at times, but overall the author does a great job of avoiding some of the annoying pitfalls of doing so.
I love the guys, their family, and teammates. I love every single second of this book and will definitely be re-reading it again. If you love hockey romances, definitely check out Meg Harding's Checking It Twice.
Eric meets Dorian during a photo shoot. Dorian is flustered by the hot, hunky hockey, while Eric is instantly drawn to the adorable model. From the start, Dorian is just the cutest. It's so cute that he doesn't know anything about sports, but is stuck with a hockey player who's interested in him. And Eric is just precious with his inexperience with guys.
I love stories with closeted athletes, and Eric is just that, as he's afraid to come out in the tough world of hockey. Their story is full of fear and doubts. And hot hockey players.
Written in present tense, it drives me crazy at times, but overall the author does a great job of avoiding some of the annoying pitfalls of doing so.
I love the guys, their family, and teammates. I love every single second of this book and will definitely be re-reading it again. If you love hockey romances, definitely check out Meg Harding's Checking It Twice.
December 26, 2019
I was so excited to return to this universe, but I'm dnfing this book. I put this series on my еик when I was just starting with mlm books, and now I'm spoiled. Also I've unintentionally read like 3 similar books in the past couple of months, so this one isn't something new or different.
I liked previous 2 books in the series, but by this point they "don't spark joy" anymore. Wish I would've read it sooner, maybe I wouldn't dnf it then.
I liked previous 2 books in the series, but by this point they "don't spark joy" anymore. Wish I would've read it sooner, maybe I wouldn't dnf it then.
June 6, 2022
3.5*
Questa serie sin dal primo volume mi ha subito incuriosita, le trame sono molto carine e promettono dolcezza e sensualità.
Di fatto, anche in questo libro, è proprio questo che ho trovato.
Il problema però è che manca sempre qualcosa che faccia breccia nel mio cuore e mi conquisti totalmente.
La recensione di Tivvy continua qui
https://www.letturesalepepe.com/doppi...
Questa serie sin dal primo volume mi ha subito incuriosita, le trame sono molto carine e promettono dolcezza e sensualità.
Di fatto, anche in questo libro, è proprio questo che ho trovato.
Il problema però è che manca sempre qualcosa che faccia breccia nel mio cuore e mi conquisti totalmente.
La recensione di Tivvy continua qui
https://www.letturesalepepe.com/doppi...
January 30, 2017
This book was okay.
I liked the concept and I liked the characters well enough. I just wasn’t ever really engaged in their story. It was an okay read, but it wasn’t anything new or compelling for me. I haven’t read the other books in the series, maybe that would have changed my read. But honestly, I’m not inspired to.
I liked the concept and I liked the characters well enough. I just wasn’t ever really engaged in their story. It was an okay read, but it wasn’t anything new or compelling for me. I haven’t read the other books in the series, maybe that would have changed my read. But honestly, I’m not inspired to.
March 24, 2017
Solid but that trope has been used enough.
Also quick note; the author uses a lot of the same language and like phrases and like the characters have a lot of the same characteristics which is a bit lazy I think like make them different and like don't use the same tricks all the time u know ?
Also quick note; the author uses a lot of the same language and like phrases and like the characters have a lot of the same characteristics which is a bit lazy I think like make them different and like don't use the same tricks all the time u know ?
October 8, 2019
3.5 stars
Took me a while to get into, dragged for a while and because Eric is sort of an ass. It’s a now-classic story; gay sports figure terrified to come out, boyfriend hates going back in the closet, issues ensue, all’s right in the end.
Took me a while to get into, dragged for a while and because Eric is sort of an ass. It’s a now-classic story; gay sports figure terrified to come out, boyfriend hates going back in the closet, issues ensue, all’s right in the end.
January 11, 2020
Just like all the other books in this series, this one was absolutely adorable. There were quirky moments, some sad ones but overall it was heartwarming and adorable. Dorian was sassy and witty and while I didn't like the way Eric treated him in the beginning, I could relate to Eric on some level.
July 31, 2021
Need something fluffy for a plane ride. Although the characters were sweet, this whole book is gaslighting about how riskless it is to come out in the NHL. At the time it was written, there were zero out pro hockey players and there would not be any for another half decade.
June 8, 2017
Me encantó la manera tan natural en que se dieron las cosas, sin tantos dramas ni rellenos innecesarios.
October 12, 2020
This third entry in the series is a good one. I love the twins and I'm so glad Dorian is getting his story. I love seeing the family and getting to revisit James and Bastian especially!
December 5, 2020
Average in every way.
May 15, 2022
Proprio non c’è verso di farmi piacere lo stile di questa autrice, che cavolo peccato perché la storia non era male, anzi!, però sto presente così fastidioso mi scompiglia la lettura
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