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Poetry in Motion
Travis Campbell has been at this hockey thing for a while. He knows his days on the ice are numbered, but he’s happy with the Moncton Ice Cats and he’s still got some time to figure out what comes next. He’s been taking college classes online and thought he knew what he was doing, but then he made the ultimate rookie mistake. It turns out the poetry class is not the easier way to get his required English credits.
Barnaby Birtwistle has exiled himself to the wilds of New Brunswick, leaving London, his so-called friends, and his cheating ex behind. His life is finally getting back on track, and he's going to keep it that way, even if it means living like a monk.
Travis is expecting a bookish nerd to help him pass his staggeringly boring class; Barnaby is expecting a meathead hockey player who struggles to string two words together, let alone appreciate poetry. Turns out that they both have something to learn.
Barnaby Birtwistle has exiled himself to the wilds of New Brunswick, leaving London, his so-called friends, and his cheating ex behind. His life is finally getting back on track, and he's going to keep it that way, even if it means living like a monk.
Travis is expecting a bookish nerd to help him pass his staggeringly boring class; Barnaby is expecting a meathead hockey player who struggles to string two words together, let alone appreciate poetry. Turns out that they both have something to learn.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2019
125 people are currently reading
844 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Wayland
22 books697 followersSamantha Wayland has three great loves in life; her family, writing books, and hockey. She is often found apologizing to the first for how much time and attention is taken up by the latter two, but they forgive her because they are awesome and she clearly doesn’t deserve them.
Sam lives with her family -- of both the two and four-legged variety -- outside of Boston. She is a wicked passionate New Englander (born and raised) who has been known to wax rhapsodic about the Maine Coast, the mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont, and the sensible way in which her local brethren don’t see a need for directional signals (blinkahs!).
Her favorite things include mango martinis, tiny Chihuahuas with big attitude problems, and the Oxford comma.
Sam lives with her family -- of both the two and four-legged variety -- outside of Boston. She is a wicked passionate New Englander (born and raised) who has been known to wax rhapsodic about the Maine Coast, the mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont, and the sensible way in which her local brethren don’t see a need for directional signals (blinkahs!).
Her favorite things include mango martinis, tiny Chihuahuas with big attitude problems, and the Oxford comma.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
August 27, 2019
This book is all the things:
- one lovable, tough-as-nails hockey player (Travis) who doesn't need to lead
- one adorkable English grad student (Barnaby) who is toppy as hell
- sizzling chemistry
- friends to lovers
- awesome ensemble of secondary characters (Jack & Grady need to get together pronto!)
- SEX on fire
- POETRY
- hurt/comfort
- low relationship angst
- romance (Travis & Barnaby were so sweet together, I was swooning the entire time)
- HEA!
The guys actually recite poetry to one another, and I could not with the cuteness. I have always liked this author, but she's outdone herself with this story.
SO MUCH LOVE!
Go read this one immediately.
- one lovable, tough-as-nails hockey player (Travis) who doesn't need to lead
- one adorkable English grad student (Barnaby) who is toppy as hell
- sizzling chemistry
- friends to lovers
- awesome ensemble of secondary characters (Jack & Grady need to get together pronto!)
- SEX on fire
- POETRY
- hurt/comfort
- low relationship angst
- romance (Travis & Barnaby were so sweet together, I was swooning the entire time)
- HEA!
The guys actually recite poetry to one another, and I could not with the cuteness. I have always liked this author, but she's outdone herself with this story.
SO MUCH LOVE!
Go read this one immediately.
March 26, 2023
Original review 9/2019:
The first 2/3 of the story was wonderful. I can safely say that I liked all the characters, though Barnaby might be my favourite. Oh how I wish there was an audio version of this book, I'd love to hear him talk in that proper British accent of his. He is so adorable.
Travis and Barnaby were super sweet together. I liked the progression of their relationship from student/tutor to friends to more. It felt natural. Also, I can't remember the last time I enjoyed reading poetry this much. It really brought something special to this story.
There was some drama in the last third that set a different mood to the story. It was a bit cliche and felt forced, especially how Travis behaved towards Barnaby, only for everything to be resolved in the end in a bit predictable way. But I'm willing to overlook those minor niggles because the rest was very enjoyable.
Looking forward to Jack and Grady's story!
Re-read 3/2023: I reread this book because of Jack and Grady. I didn't even realize at first that The Long Game is their story, and I wanted to refresh my memory since I didn't remember anything about them in this book. I have to say that I enjoyed it less than the first time around. I'm keeping my original rating, though. There is also an audio version available now, but I couldn't even finish the sample. As much as I usually enjoy Michael Ferraiuolo's narration, his attempt at British accent wasn't working for me.
The first 2/3 of the story was wonderful. I can safely say that I liked all the characters, though Barnaby might be my favourite. Oh how I wish there was an audio version of this book, I'd love to hear him talk in that proper British accent of his. He is so adorable.
Travis and Barnaby were super sweet together. I liked the progression of their relationship from student/tutor to friends to more. It felt natural. Also, I can't remember the last time I enjoyed reading poetry this much. It really brought something special to this story.
There was some drama in the last third that set a different mood to the story. It was a bit cliche and felt forced, especially how Travis behaved towards Barnaby, only for everything to be resolved in the end in a bit predictable way. But I'm willing to overlook those minor niggles because the rest was very enjoyable.
Looking forward to Jack and Grady's story!
Re-read 3/2023: I reread this book because of Jack and Grady. I didn't even realize at first that The Long Game is their story, and I wanted to refresh my memory since I didn't remember anything about them in this book. I have to say that I enjoyed it less than the first time around. I'm keeping my original rating, though. There is also an audio version available now, but I couldn't even finish the sample. As much as I usually enjoy Michael Ferraiuolo's narration, his attempt at British accent wasn't working for me.
February 3, 2020
I've been sitting on my review for this book, and now, just a couple weeks later, I can barely remember the plot. That's not a good sign...
I bumped Poetry in Motion way up on my to-read list because everyone I know loved it. I got it as a gift over the holidays, and I couldn't wait to start it. Plus, hockey books are my absolute crack, so I was sure it would be a winner.
Truth is, I liked it but I never felt that overwhelming sense of love for these two as a couple. I enjoyed the story, and the chronic injury parts were emotional and hard to read, but I found the pace to be a bit slow and the romance a bit underwhelming.
The poetry was... fine. The story was... cute. I just don't feel like gushing, like all of my friends.
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I bumped Poetry in Motion way up on my to-read list because everyone I know loved it. I got it as a gift over the holidays, and I couldn't wait to start it. Plus, hockey books are my absolute crack, so I was sure it would be a winner.
Truth is, I liked it but I never felt that overwhelming sense of love for these two as a couple. I enjoyed the story, and the chronic injury parts were emotional and hard to read, but I found the pace to be a bit slow and the romance a bit underwhelming.
The poetry was... fine. The story was... cute. I just don't feel like gushing, like all of my friends.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
September 23, 2019
Absolutely wonderful !! Full review to come...
February 1, 2021
4 Stars
What I love about this story is that it’s set in Wayland’s hockey universe, and though it’s not obviously billed as such, my recommendation is to read things in publication order (be aware though that MF and MMF are scattered throughout). Regardless, I don't think many will have much to complain about Wayland’s sexy stories.
So yes, I smiled hard as I was able to revisit many beloved characters - mainly Rupert and Callum and their family, as well as Mike and Alexei, and several other players we’ve come to know. What I also appreciate about this series is that over time, the Moncton Ice Cats have embraced LGBT players, and the anxiety of being in the closet is really not an issue anymore. One can simply enjoy hot hockey players falling in love and living their happily ever after.
Here, it’s veteran defender Travis, and in his effort to plan for a future without hockey, he’s getting his college degree. What should’ve been an easily elective of poetry, is anything but. Cue Rupert’s cousin Barnaby, who has escaped from England due to a very bad breakup and is in need of some extra funds. Teaching poetry is Barnaby’s forte and to do it while ogling a super fit gorgeous athlete? Extra credit for the win!
This was a slow burn attraction as Travis and Barnaby become friends, then lovers. In the past, Wayland hasn’t disappointed on the hockey, the feels, or the smex, and she doesn’t do so here either!
More please!
What I love about this story is that it’s set in Wayland’s hockey universe, and though it’s not obviously billed as such, my recommendation is to read things in publication order (be aware though that MF and MMF are scattered throughout). Regardless, I don't think many will have much to complain about Wayland’s sexy stories.
So yes, I smiled hard as I was able to revisit many beloved characters - mainly Rupert and Callum and their family, as well as Mike and Alexei, and several other players we’ve come to know. What I also appreciate about this series is that over time, the Moncton Ice Cats have embraced LGBT players, and the anxiety of being in the closet is really not an issue anymore. One can simply enjoy hot hockey players falling in love and living their happily ever after.
Here, it’s veteran defender Travis, and in his effort to plan for a future without hockey, he’s getting his college degree. What should’ve been an easily elective of poetry, is anything but. Cue Rupert’s cousin Barnaby, who has escaped from England due to a very bad breakup and is in need of some extra funds. Teaching poetry is Barnaby’s forte and to do it while ogling a super fit gorgeous athlete? Extra credit for the win!
This was a slow burn attraction as Travis and Barnaby become friends, then lovers. In the past, Wayland hasn’t disappointed on the hockey, the feels, or the smex, and she doesn’t do so here either!
More please!
April 4, 2021
This is very definitely my favourite so far in an excellent series of ice hockey romances which manage to avoid a lot of the typical plot points associated with the trope.
I had lots and lots of feels reading this one, I adored Barnaby's oh so very British ways and his humour and I have to compliment Samantha on getting the dialogue for him right on point.
I loved Travis and his fears that he couldn't do anything other than be an ice hockey player and how he'd never really been properly taught how to cope and work with his rare learning difficulty (which, oddly enough, someone I know has a very similar thing where they cannot absorb information by sight and reading alone and need to hear the words).
The slow burn UST is delicious, the sparks fly constantly, the tutoring sessions are filled with utterly gorgeous poetry which is one of my most favourite things in the whole world.
I loved that Samantha included a note at the back of the book as to which textbook they came from and how she'd picked them. I am such a fan of Donne, Shakespeare, Jonson and of Byron and Elizabeth Barrett Browning and all the rest 🥰
I also loved how there wasn't any plot for plot's sake dramady. There are serious subjects touched here - the risks from long term injury, and even death - when it comes to repetitive head injuries, and the concerns of Barnaby as he falls more in love with Travis are expressed with the appropriate significance.
All our favourite characters from the earlier books in the series flit in and out, especially Rupert and Callum and their brood, and I am also so desperately in need of Jack and Grady's romance, because they are going to be epic, I just know it.
I had lots and lots of feels reading this one, I adored Barnaby's oh so very British ways and his humour and I have to compliment Samantha on getting the dialogue for him right on point.
I loved Travis and his fears that he couldn't do anything other than be an ice hockey player and how he'd never really been properly taught how to cope and work with his rare learning difficulty (which, oddly enough, someone I know has a very similar thing where they cannot absorb information by sight and reading alone and need to hear the words).
The slow burn UST is delicious, the sparks fly constantly, the tutoring sessions are filled with utterly gorgeous poetry which is one of my most favourite things in the whole world.
I loved that Samantha included a note at the back of the book as to which textbook they came from and how she'd picked them. I am such a fan of Donne, Shakespeare, Jonson and of Byron and Elizabeth Barrett Browning and all the rest 🥰
I also loved how there wasn't any plot for plot's sake dramady. There are serious subjects touched here - the risks from long term injury, and even death - when it comes to repetitive head injuries, and the concerns of Barnaby as he falls more in love with Travis are expressed with the appropriate significance.
All our favourite characters from the earlier books in the series flit in and out, especially Rupert and Callum and their brood, and I am also so desperately in need of Jack and Grady's romance, because they are going to be epic, I just know it.
September 11, 2019
4.5★'s Rounded Up!
You guys that know me know I won't be able to review this without getting this off my chest first.
You call it a standalone and I call it a spin-off, hello Hat Trick Series and Crashing Series. I'm even going go so far and say maybe this is even a little bit a part of a series, Home and Away anyone??
Most definitely I wish I had known this. I am a freak about reading order and all that jazz. Even though...I LOVED THIS BOOK! I mean really, really, REALLY loved it! I can't regret reading it out of order one bit. SO MUCH LOVE!!!
It was so sweet and so funny. It was seriously hot and it had the perfect amount of angst. I really did love it and can't wait to go figure out the reading order for all the others...except that threesome, I don't think I'll be able to do that one...Maybe. We'll see.
You guys that know me know I won't be able to review this without getting this off my chest first.
You call it a standalone and I call it a spin-off, hello Hat Trick Series and Crashing Series. I'm even going go so far and say maybe this is even a little bit a part of a series, Home and Away anyone??
Most definitely I wish I had known this. I am a freak about reading order and all that jazz. Even though...I LOVED THIS BOOK! I mean really, really, REALLY loved it! I can't regret reading it out of order one bit. SO MUCH LOVE!!!
It was so sweet and so funny. It was seriously hot and it had the perfect amount of angst. I really did love it and can't wait to go figure out the reading order for all the others...except that threesome, I don't think I'll be able to do that one...Maybe. We'll see.
September 27, 2019
4.5 Stars!
Loved this one. Ticked all of my boxes.
Humor
Steam
Sports
Nerdy MC
Friends to Lovers
Mild angst
Great supporting characters
Highly recommend!
Loved this one. Ticked all of my boxes.
Humor
Steam
Sports
Nerdy MC
Friends to Lovers
Mild angst
Great supporting characters
Highly recommend!
August 31, 2019
Good stuff...
3.5 stars
Cute story of a hockey player and tutor falling for one another.
I'm really looking forward to a Grady & Jack story
3.5 stars
Cute story of a hockey player and tutor falling for one another.
I'm really looking forward to a Grady & Jack story
January 6, 2024
”Shhh… The whisper of Barnaby’s lips against his eyelids encouraged him to keep them closed. “You’re so good. So good,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to each lid.
Travis smiled. Or he thought he did.
“So beautiful.” Two more kisses, to his temples this time.
His lips. “Smart.”
His chin. “Kind.”
Travis drifted, wondering what was real and what was a dream. Wondering if it were possible for it to be both.”
Samantha Wayland is a new-to-me author and after reading this I’ll definitely be checking out her backlist. Barnaby and Travis’s story brought a smile to my face. This is not your typical hockey romance with prosaic prose and plain ole hockey action. There is enough hockey action for lovers of the genre, but that’s not all. The characterization and plot are great, and not only that, I really enjoyed the writing as well. Beautiful poetry is sprinkled throughout and while I wouldn’t call myself a fan of poetry by any stretch, the execution was such that it worked.
Barnaby is British and working on his PhD in English in Maritime Canada. Travis is a hockey player who plays for the Ice Cats. He is also doing a degree online at the same time and happens to be taking a poetry class, which he’s struggling with. He hires Barnaby to tutor him. Their chemistry is immediate but neither is ready to be in a relationship—Barnaby is still bearing emotional scars from his cheating ex and Travis is constantly changing teams and moving cities. After sacrificing a lot during his past relationship, Barnaby vows to pick up the pieces of his life and focus on achieving all he’d given up for his ex; he is also determined to never repeat the same mistakes. Travis is also facing his own issues as he gets older in hockey terms and past injuries are starting to take a toll on his body.
As Travis and Barnaby spend more time together not only does Travis’ appreciation for poetry grow, but their friends-with-benefits arrangement gradually turns into friendship and deeper feelings. I loved the relationship development and organic shift from friends-to-lovers. The side characters are also wonderful. Barnaby lives with his cousin Rupert (who manages the Ice Cats) and his husband Callum and their three kids. Barnaby’s interactions with the family, particularly the kids is sweet and funny, especially as they provide commentary on his relationship. There is a ton of UST between Jack (Barnaby’s friend) and Grady (Travis’ friend), and I’m looking forward to their book when it’s released in mid-February.
Travis smiled. Or he thought he did.
“So beautiful.” Two more kisses, to his temples this time.
His lips. “Smart.”
His chin. “Kind.”
Travis drifted, wondering what was real and what was a dream. Wondering if it were possible for it to be both.”
Samantha Wayland is a new-to-me author and after reading this I’ll definitely be checking out her backlist. Barnaby and Travis’s story brought a smile to my face. This is not your typical hockey romance with prosaic prose and plain ole hockey action. There is enough hockey action for lovers of the genre, but that’s not all. The characterization and plot are great, and not only that, I really enjoyed the writing as well. Beautiful poetry is sprinkled throughout and while I wouldn’t call myself a fan of poetry by any stretch, the execution was such that it worked.
Barnaby is British and working on his PhD in English in Maritime Canada. Travis is a hockey player who plays for the Ice Cats. He is also doing a degree online at the same time and happens to be taking a poetry class, which he’s struggling with. He hires Barnaby to tutor him. Their chemistry is immediate but neither is ready to be in a relationship—Barnaby is still bearing emotional scars from his cheating ex and Travis is constantly changing teams and moving cities. After sacrificing a lot during his past relationship, Barnaby vows to pick up the pieces of his life and focus on achieving all he’d given up for his ex; he is also determined to never repeat the same mistakes. Travis is also facing his own issues as he gets older in hockey terms and past injuries are starting to take a toll on his body.
As Travis and Barnaby spend more time together not only does Travis’ appreciation for poetry grow, but their friends-with-benefits arrangement gradually turns into friendship and deeper feelings. I loved the relationship development and organic shift from friends-to-lovers. The side characters are also wonderful. Barnaby lives with his cousin Rupert (who manages the Ice Cats) and his husband Callum and their three kids. Barnaby’s interactions with the family, particularly the kids is sweet and funny, especially as they provide commentary on his relationship. There is a ton of UST between Jack (Barnaby’s friend) and Grady (Travis’ friend), and I’m looking forward to their book when it’s released in mid-February.
September 20, 2019
Talk about a book that came out of nowhere. Didn't know much about Poetry in Motion by Samantha Wayland going in, but I got hooked and read every free chance I got.
-Sports Romance
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing
-Barnaby & Travis. Barnaby, an adorable English grad student who has moved to Canada to start over. Travis, a mid-thirties hockey player who is loveable and sweet.
-CHEMISTRY IS OFF THE CHARTS.
-Relationship development. From their first meeting to the tutoring sessions, to the first kiss, all of it.
-Low angst
-Dual POVs
-And at the end, we know these guys are in it forever.
Now all I hope is that Grady and Jack get their HEA soon!! I need that book!
Can't recommend it enough. 4.5 Stars!
++Can it be read as a standalone? Yes, I haven't read all the books in the series, and I never felt lost.
-Sports Romance
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing
-Barnaby & Travis. Barnaby, an adorable English grad student who has moved to Canada to start over. Travis, a mid-thirties hockey player who is loveable and sweet.
-CHEMISTRY IS OFF THE CHARTS.
-Relationship development. From their first meeting to the tutoring sessions, to the first kiss, all of it.
-Low angst
-Dual POVs
-And at the end, we know these guys are in it forever.
Now all I hope is that Grady and Jack get their HEA soon!! I need that book!
Can't recommend it enough. 4.5 Stars!
++Can it be read as a standalone? Yes, I haven't read all the books in the series, and I never felt lost.
January 23, 2023
*** Edit January 2023***
Re-read before The Long Game [Jack and Grady's story] comes out next month. I've really enjoyed being in the Moncton Ice Cats world 🏒 again.
***Book Review***
Well, I was intending to read the rest of the Moncton Ice Cats stories again but as usual got caught up in this new story. 4.5 stars from me. Loved it.
We catch up with Rupert and Callum...well, duh obviously *cue eye roll* as Rupert is the team manager and Travis, one of the MC's, is a sort of enforcer for the team. There was also a teeny tiny catch up with Alexei and Mike, and I hate to say it but the solution to Travis being withdrawn from the playing roster due to head injury was fairly obvious although it took a while to work its way through the story...but to be fair to everyone, they were not aware of the full extent of Travis's past head/concussion problems.
Barnaby I loved as a character, and there were plenty of feels, and a few tears. Even though I'm not really a poetry person, I did like the references and the inclusion of the famous Elizabeth Barrett Browning poem at the time it was introduced. I can only hope that Jack and Grady's story follows shortly [I need to know why Jack went to prison when he was 22]...
P.S. How the hell did the fictional Jane Eyre acquired a Y in her Christian/first name?? As this story is all about English Literature...not a happy bunny at all with that particular typo 😕.
Re-read before The Long Game [Jack and Grady's story] comes out next month. I've really enjoyed being in the Moncton Ice Cats world 🏒 again.
***Book Review***
Well, I was intending to read the rest of the Moncton Ice Cats stories again but as usual got caught up in this new story. 4.5 stars from me. Loved it.
We catch up with Rupert and Callum...well, duh obviously *cue eye roll* as Rupert is the team manager and Travis, one of the MC's, is a sort of enforcer for the team. There was also a teeny tiny catch up with Alexei and Mike, and I hate to say it but the solution to Travis being withdrawn from the playing roster due to head injury was fairly obvious although it took a while to work its way through the story...but to be fair to everyone, they were not aware of the full extent of Travis's past head/concussion problems.
Barnaby I loved as a character, and there were plenty of feels, and a few tears. Even though I'm not really a poetry person, I did like the references and the inclusion of the famous Elizabeth Barrett Browning poem at the time it was introduced. I can only hope that Jack and Grady's story follows shortly [I need to know why Jack went to prison when he was 22]...
P.S. How the hell did the fictional Jane Eyre acquired a Y in her Christian/first name?? As this story is all about English Literature...not a happy bunny at all with that particular typo 😕.
September 11, 2019
Me ha gustado mucho, la historia, los protagonistas... Muy recomendable para todos los que disfruten con los libros de deportistas, concretamente jugadores de hockey. Es difícil resistirse al nerd y al jock.
August 12, 2019
Sweet and hot. I'm definitely going to check this author's other books. Loved the Hafez quote too. Now I cannot wait for Jack and Grady's story!
September 8, 2019
4.5 stars! I absolutely loved this. It had everything I could have wanted. Sweetness, romance, amazing characters, chemistry, panty-melting, tender sex and awesome, supportive friends and family, as well as great writing.
Sports romances are a weakness of mine and hockey and fighters are my crack. But the plot of this one gave me a turn or two, especially so soon after Thrown Off the Ice *too soon, TOO SOON* but thankfully this situation worked out the way it should have.
I loved Barnaby and Travis, both together and as individuals. They were everything, their interactions were sweet, sexy af, funny and so open and supportive. *still swooning!* I also loved how Barnaby wasn't going to beg Travis when they were at odds on his decision, and that Travis was able to sit and consider if he might be wrong.
And every other character in this story was a delight, I loved them all. I sure hope Samantha Wayland continues with these book-people, I want more!!
Sports romances are a weakness of mine and hockey and fighters are my crack. But the plot of this one gave me a turn or two, especially so soon after Thrown Off the Ice *too soon, TOO SOON* but thankfully this situation worked out the way it should have.
I loved Barnaby and Travis, both together and as individuals. They were everything, their interactions were sweet, sexy af, funny and so open and supportive. *still swooning!* I also loved how Barnaby wasn't going to beg Travis when they were at odds on his decision, and that Travis was able to sit and consider if he might be wrong.
And every other character in this story was a delight, I loved them all. I sure hope Samantha Wayland continues with these book-people, I want more!!
December 10, 2019
Two really good characters met up here - Travis, a hockey player on the downward side of his career, and Barnaby, a graduate student who left a bad break-up in England for a fresh start in Canada. They meet when Barnaby is hired to tutor Travis in his college poetry class, as Travis tries awkwardly to prepare for life after hockey by getting a degree. Neither of them at first has any real interest in the other's world, but they pretty quickly do in each other. And gradually, their lives become entwined, even as Travis's troubles on the ice catch up with him.
Luckily for them both, he's now with the Moncton Ice Cats, owned and managed by a gay couple intent on keeping their team a safe space. Unluckily, that's not going to be enough to fix his problems.
This book suffers slightly from comparison with one which I read first. But there is plenty to like here, with a realistic older athlete afraid of what happens when the dream, and the income, goes away. And a very different man who is coming to love him, with worries of his own.
There is an added bonus for lovers of classic poetry in the way Barnaby uses famous lines to try to both engage Travis in his studies and to demonstrate how poetry really speaks to universal emotions. It comes across as plausible, not pretentious, given who Barnaby is. I enjoyed this one a lot (including the chance to see how old friends like Rupert and Callum, and Alexei and Mike, are doing.) And I do hope to get Jack's story sometime.
Luckily for them both, he's now with the Moncton Ice Cats, owned and managed by a gay couple intent on keeping their team a safe space. Unluckily, that's not going to be enough to fix his problems.
This book suffers slightly from comparison with one which I read first. But there is plenty to like here, with a realistic older athlete afraid of what happens when the dream, and the income, goes away. And a very different man who is coming to love him, with worries of his own.
There is an added bonus for lovers of classic poetry in the way Barnaby uses famous lines to try to both engage Travis in his studies and to demonstrate how poetry really speaks to universal emotions. It comes across as plausible, not pretentious, given who Barnaby is. I enjoyed this one a lot (including the chance to see how old friends like Rupert and Callum, and Alexei and Mike, are doing.) And I do hope to get Jack's story sometime.
September 16, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Oh silly boys. These two are like sparks on dry firewood; they go in deep within very little time and the feelings they both keep hidden from each other run strong. The chemistry between them is undeniable and genuine and really lovely to see grow and mature. But that little secret Travis has that he inadvertently shares with Barnaby may well be the catalyst to force these two apart. It becomes a real deal breaker for Barnaby and one that Travis refuses to share with anyone else despite it being a dangerous decision in the end. My heart broke for Travis and his inability to trust in himself or believe in his own worth beyond playing hockey. Having been told for so many of his formative years that he wasn’t very bright and just to stick to playing has made the man afraid to think beyond a career that may very well do him damage beyond repair. Some of the best moments in this novel were when Barnaby would encourage Travis to see himself as the smart and kindhearted man he truly was.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Oh silly boys. These two are like sparks on dry firewood; they go in deep within very little time and the feelings they both keep hidden from each other run strong. The chemistry between them is undeniable and genuine and really lovely to see grow and mature. But that little secret Travis has that he inadvertently shares with Barnaby may well be the catalyst to force these two apart. It becomes a real deal breaker for Barnaby and one that Travis refuses to share with anyone else despite it being a dangerous decision in the end. My heart broke for Travis and his inability to trust in himself or believe in his own worth beyond playing hockey. Having been told for so many of his formative years that he wasn’t very bright and just to stick to playing has made the man afraid to think beyond a career that may very well do him damage beyond repair. Some of the best moments in this novel were when Barnaby would encourage Travis to see himself as the smart and kindhearted man he truly was.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
August 29, 2019
I love everything about this world Samantha Wayland has created with her Moncton Ice Cats team. “Poetry in Motion,” brings us Barnaby who is the cousin of Rupert from, “Home and Away.” Him and Travis were lovely together and I enjoyed catching up with Rupert, Callum, Alexei and Mike. I’m going to read the two novellas next and then Alexei and Mike’s Christmas Story. I don’t doubt that I would read anything about anyone on this team. Although I’m skipping the two that have women involved because I’m just not into that at the moment. 😂 Now, we need a Jack and Grady book next or I’m going to lose my damn mind.
August 26, 2019
Fantastic, except the very end
Samantha Wayland was one of my gateway authors into MM and I was thrilled to see a new book. Barnaby and Travis were wonderful characters and their story had me laughing and swooning and close to tears at some points. The ending was kind of disappointing though. A whole bunch of events and discussion that I’d rather have seen happening is told too quickly and wrapped up in less than a chapter. At least it got to a strong HFN. But what is up with Grady and Jack? There was this little round of confessions from everyone including Travis and Barnaby that were clear as mud where Jack and Grady are concerned.Then Reese and his *two partners* were mentioned and I don’t remember anything about that happening so did I miss a book that I can’t even find or what?! Ms. Wayland has some explaining to do! Never mind, Reese was an MMF so I skipped it. Dammit. I’m counting on a book for Jack and Grady though.
Samantha Wayland was one of my gateway authors into MM and I was thrilled to see a new book. Barnaby and Travis were wonderful characters and their story had me laughing and swooning and close to tears at some points. The ending was kind of disappointing though. A whole bunch of events and discussion that I’d rather have seen happening is told too quickly and wrapped up in less than a chapter. At least it got to a strong HFN. But what is up with Grady and Jack? There was this little round of confessions from everyone including Travis and Barnaby that were clear as mud where Jack and Grady are concerned.
October 4, 2019
3.5 stars.
Poetry in Motion has a great blurb. Plus it was a hockey romance. In my eyes that alone is a win-win situation. The book itself and the plot was all amazing. All of my boxes were ticked off with this.
The only problem? I wish I was into it as much as all my other friends. I honestly felt like I was having an out of body experience and couldn't feel anything. If I had been, this could've easily been a 5 star read.
It's a me problem. Not the book at all. This year has been pretty shitty for me. I've read like 1/3 of the books I normally would and it's honestly getting to me.
Poetry in Motion has a great blurb. Plus it was a hockey romance. In my eyes that alone is a win-win situation. The book itself and the plot was all amazing. All of my boxes were ticked off with this.
The only problem? I wish I was into it as much as all my other friends. I honestly felt like I was having an out of body experience and couldn't feel anything. If I had been, this could've easily been a 5 star read.
It's a me problem. Not the book at all. This year has been pretty shitty for me. I've read like 1/3 of the books I normally would and it's honestly getting to me.
October 27, 2019
Reread 10/26/2019 I really needed this today. Now if we could ever get Grady and Jack’s story.
February 22, 2020
✮4 Stars✮
💗
August 9, 2019
Funny and emotional
This book both made me laugh and cry (and maybe fan myself at the love scenes - holy moly, they were hot!!). I devoured it and would have loved more. It was great to see characters from former books, and I’m hoping to see some side characters get their happy soon!
This book both made me laugh and cry (and maybe fan myself at the love scenes - holy moly, they were hot!!). I devoured it and would have loved more. It was great to see characters from former books, and I’m hoping to see some side characters get their happy soon!
March 9, 2023
Great read!
I love this world Samantha Wayland has created. The characters are wonderful and that hockey world intriguing. Travis and Barnaby are another great couple in this little world. This book had a good storyline, great characters, as most importantly, a lot of heart. One complain is it ended abruptly for my tastes, I would love an epilogue. Good book overall.
I love this world Samantha Wayland has created. The characters are wonderful and that hockey world intriguing. Travis and Barnaby are another great couple in this little world. This book had a good storyline, great characters, as most importantly, a lot of heart. One complain is it ended abruptly for my tastes, I would love an epilogue. Good book overall.
February 18, 2022
3-3.5 stars
I went in to this with high hopes because I loved “Home and Away” but this one felt like too much of the same conversation over and over again… I wanted more from it and I wished that this was executed differently..
Travis was really hurting not only Barnaby but himself. I think that, the main issue could have been resolved differently. To me the fact that Travis didn’t consider any hockey job after playing hockey to mw was quiet mind-blowing…
Overall good read especially with Michael Ferraioulo narrating but it was great to see Callum and Rupert and their family (Barnaby is Rupert’s cousin)!!
I went in to this with high hopes because I loved “Home and Away” but this one felt like too much of the same conversation over and over again… I wanted more from it and I wished that this was executed differently..
Travis was really hurting not only Barnaby but himself. I think that, the main issue could have been resolved differently. To me the fact that Travis didn’t consider any hockey job after playing hockey to mw was quiet mind-blowing…
Overall good read especially with Michael Ferraioulo narrating but it was great to see Callum and Rupert and their family (Barnaby is Rupert’s cousin)!!
August 12, 2019
I can understand all the high ratings for this one. It’s very sweet, very romantic, it made me laugh and it has two likeable MC. I found it a little slow in parts which had me putting this down a few times and wavering with giving it 3 stars. But I always picked it back up. There was just something special about these two men. Whether it was the poetry, the hockey...I’m not sure. It just gave me lots of the feels.
February 26, 2021
Poetry in Motion has been on my tbr for quite some time, and maybe it would've been better if I left it there...
So much angst... So much drama... I couldn't take it.
So much angst... So much drama... I couldn't take it.
March 18, 2024
4+
W końcu!!!
Autorka zdecydowała się napisać coś dłuższego i ponownie wyszła z tego naprawdę dobra, fajna historia; ze zdecydowanie dającymi się polubić MC - zwłaszcza Travis tutaj dla mnie rządzi, choć czasami uparty i zabetonowany w jednym kierunku z niego drań jest, którego ma się ochotę trzepnąć w łepetę z różnych względów, ale właśnie przez to jest prawdziwy do bólu, zaś Barnaby potrafi zaskoczyć; gdzie seks nie dominuje historii, a jest tylko klasycznym dodatkiem; gdzie parada bohaterów z wcześniejszych tomów ogrzewa serducho, bo ma to ręce i nogi, i jest naprawdę dobrym zakotwiczeniem w całym świecie...
Tiaaaa... to udana książka według mojej skromnej oceny, zdecydowanie nie zaliczam czasu przy niej spędzonego za stracony 😁
W końcu!!!
Autorka zdecydowała się napisać coś dłuższego i ponownie wyszła z tego naprawdę dobra, fajna historia; ze zdecydowanie dającymi się polubić MC - zwłaszcza Travis tutaj dla mnie rządzi, choć czasami uparty i zabetonowany w jednym kierunku z niego drań jest, którego ma się ochotę trzepnąć w łepetę z różnych względów, ale właśnie przez to jest prawdziwy do bólu, zaś Barnaby potrafi zaskoczyć; gdzie seks nie dominuje historii, a jest tylko klasycznym dodatkiem; gdzie parada bohaterów z wcześniejszych tomów ogrzewa serducho, bo ma to ręce i nogi, i jest naprawdę dobrym zakotwiczeniem w całym świecie...
Tiaaaa... to udana książka według mojej skromnej oceny, zdecydowanie nie zaliczam czasu przy niej spędzonego za stracony 😁
September 4, 2019
I loved this book. Poetry.... this alone should be enough to entice you into reading this one. However, don't panic if poetry isn't your thing, this book has so much to offer. The main characters are two men who are both dealing with life and life choices.
Barnaby has left England for the cold frozen wonders of Canada. He is back on track to finishing university and getting his degree. He went all-in for love and dropped out of school to support a boyfriend and his ballet aspirations. The whole experience has left Barnaby deeply in debt, leary of love, and focused on his getting his degree.
Travis is a hockey player facing any professional athlete's worst nightmare, the waining of his career. It would be easier at times to count body parts that don't hurt and, the number of concussions is piling up.
Travis is at a crossroads and more than slightly lost. He has loved hockey from an early age. His parents bought into the push from coaches, agents, educators, etc. that he didn't need an education. His future was set - professional hockey = million$. Funny life doesn't always work out so easily.
Travis has been taking online classes without a clear degree in sight. The classes have become a spot of pride. He has a learning disability that went undiagnosed for years. The classes are a way to prove to himself that he is intelligent but, a seemingly easy poetry class is kicking his butt. Help comes in the way of Rupert the team's manager. He recommends his cousin Barnaby as a tutor.
The magic begins when Travis and Barnaby meet. Travis can comprehend when he hears the poetry read aloud. Barnaby accommodates and even recording the readings for Travis' road trips. It isn't long before they agree to friends with benefits which lasts all of three seconds. While not admitting it, they both have feelings for each other.
Both men have to come to terms with their personal demons. Barnaby realizes maybe caring deeply for someone isn't a failing after all. Travis has to face the big elephant in the room and decide what comes after hanging up the hockey skates.
Don't miss this one. It is a special book.
Barnaby has left England for the cold frozen wonders of Canada. He is back on track to finishing university and getting his degree. He went all-in for love and dropped out of school to support a boyfriend and his ballet aspirations. The whole experience has left Barnaby deeply in debt, leary of love, and focused on his getting his degree.
Travis is a hockey player facing any professional athlete's worst nightmare, the waining of his career. It would be easier at times to count body parts that don't hurt and, the number of concussions is piling up.
Travis is at a crossroads and more than slightly lost. He has loved hockey from an early age. His parents bought into the push from coaches, agents, educators, etc. that he didn't need an education. His future was set - professional hockey = million$. Funny life doesn't always work out so easily.
Travis has been taking online classes without a clear degree in sight. The classes have become a spot of pride. He has a learning disability that went undiagnosed for years. The classes are a way to prove to himself that he is intelligent but, a seemingly easy poetry class is kicking his butt. Help comes in the way of Rupert the team's manager. He recommends his cousin Barnaby as a tutor.
The magic begins when Travis and Barnaby meet. Travis can comprehend when he hears the poetry read aloud. Barnaby accommodates and even recording the readings for Travis' road trips. It isn't long before they agree to friends with benefits which lasts all of three seconds. While not admitting it, they both have feelings for each other.
Both men have to come to terms with their personal demons. Barnaby realizes maybe caring deeply for someone isn't a failing after all. Travis has to face the big elephant in the room and decide what comes after hanging up the hockey skates.
Don't miss this one. It is a special book.
August 10, 2019
4.5 stars
Oh... it’s certainly refreshing to be reading a book that’s not only well written but fun and funny and adorable and full of hockey!
I love Samantha Wayland. She wrote my all-time favourite hockey book, Home and Away 😍 so to be in the periphery of the lives of the characters from that book? Awesome feeling.
To be honest, I expected more conflict between Barnaby and Travis but they simmered down pretty quickly from first contact.
I’ve hit a bit of a snag. I have no idea what to say about this book other than, I enjoyed the hell out of it! It’s surprisingly detail oriented with really interesting backstories for each of the characters, even the side characters - Jack and Grady, I’m looking at you two and I have a sneaking suspicion that they have a book coming about them 😏
I love the Moncton Ice Cats and predict there’ll be more books from this universe with all the Easter eggs Ms Wayland planted all over this book. Reese and his partners (yes, plural) and then Jack and Grady...
All in all, this is a stand-alone but one which ties into the Moncton Ice Cats universe. Lovely addition. They all are 🤩 can’t wait for the next book! 🥶
Oh... it’s certainly refreshing to be reading a book that’s not only well written but fun and funny and adorable and full of hockey!
I love Samantha Wayland. She wrote my all-time favourite hockey book, Home and Away 😍 so to be in the periphery of the lives of the characters from that book? Awesome feeling.
To be honest, I expected more conflict between Barnaby and Travis but they simmered down pretty quickly from first contact.
I’ve hit a bit of a snag. I have no idea what to say about this book other than, I enjoyed the hell out of it! It’s surprisingly detail oriented with really interesting backstories for each of the characters, even the side characters - Jack and Grady, I’m looking at you two and I have a sneaking suspicion that they have a book coming about them 😏
I love the Moncton Ice Cats and predict there’ll be more books from this universe with all the Easter eggs Ms Wayland planted all over this book. Reese and his partners (yes, plural) and then Jack and Grady...
All in all, this is a stand-alone but one which ties into the Moncton Ice Cats universe. Lovely addition. They all are 🤩 can’t wait for the next book! 🥶
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