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Owatonna U Hockey #2
Scott
What happens when you try to fix the past and end up threatening your future?
Scott is struggling. Grieving the loss of his brother, carrying the weight of his father’s expectations, and getting his ass kicked in the rink, he’s in a downward spiral. He needs a solution and fast, but when his steroid use is exposed, he’s close to losing his place at Owatonna and more importantly, on the Eagles Hockey team. Thrown out of his house, with nowhere to go and no future in sight, he only has one choice; agree to mandatory counseling, random drug tests, and get his act together. Only then will he have a chance at normal. Meeting Hayne, a senior connected to the world through his art, is a shock to the system. Moving in with him is his only option, but falling for the shy artist leaves Scott in an impossible situation, and one he can’t escape.
Hayne has always been that quiet, creative kid who sat in the back of class drawing instead of listening to the teacher. A talented artist, the shy and sensitive young man is struggling with the loss of his childhood friend. Seeing his sadness reflected in his usually colorful paintings, he decides to attend grief counseling and meets Scott, a lost soul in desperate need of light and color in his life. Taking in a homeless hockey player certainly was never part of his carefully orchestrated ten-year plan. But now that Scott is in his life, he’s discovering the joy of this man’s loving smile and tender touch is one of the most beautiful palettes on earth.
Scott is struggling. Grieving the loss of his brother, carrying the weight of his father’s expectations, and getting his ass kicked in the rink, he’s in a downward spiral. He needs a solution and fast, but when his steroid use is exposed, he’s close to losing his place at Owatonna and more importantly, on the Eagles Hockey team. Thrown out of his house, with nowhere to go and no future in sight, he only has one choice; agree to mandatory counseling, random drug tests, and get his act together. Only then will he have a chance at normal. Meeting Hayne, a senior connected to the world through his art, is a shock to the system. Moving in with him is his only option, but falling for the shy artist leaves Scott in an impossible situation, and one he can’t escape.
Hayne has always been that quiet, creative kid who sat in the back of class drawing instead of listening to the teacher. A talented artist, the shy and sensitive young man is struggling with the loss of his childhood friend. Seeing his sadness reflected in his usually colorful paintings, he decides to attend grief counseling and meets Scott, a lost soul in desperate need of light and color in his life. Taking in a homeless hockey player certainly was never part of his carefully orchestrated ten-year plan. But now that Scott is in his life, he’s discovering the joy of this man’s loving smile and tender touch is one of the most beautiful palettes on earth.
ebook
First published March 27, 2019
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About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,711 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
March 14, 2019
4.5*
I love this new adult series from RJ and Vicki. It's still got the ice hockey hook but in Owatonna, the main thrust of the stories are about young men finding their way in a complicated world.
My heart aches for Scott, it was torn at all the trials Hayne had grown up with, it broke at the grief these two were having to deal with.
But, it also rejoiced when they found each other, it sang when Hayne got lost in his art and it burst with happiness when they battled their demons to look forward to a brighter future together.
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series and looking forward to goalie Ben's story next.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
I love this new adult series from RJ and Vicki. It's still got the ice hockey hook but in Owatonna, the main thrust of the stories are about young men finding their way in a complicated world.
My heart aches for Scott, it was torn at all the trials Hayne had grown up with, it broke at the grief these two were having to deal with.
But, it also rejoiced when they found each other, it sang when Hayne got lost in his art and it burst with happiness when they battled their demons to look forward to a brighter future together.
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series and looking forward to goalie Ben's story next.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
April 21, 2019
I was really looking forward to this one and once again this writing duo did not disappoint...full review to follow soonish!
Even with Ryker gone the game must go on...
‘Scott’ is book #2 in RJ Scott and V.L. Locey’s ‘Harrisburg Railers’ spin off series ‘Owatonna U Hockey’ which started with ‘Ryker’ whom any Railers fan worth their ice time will tell you is Jared Madsen’s son. So we’ve seen Ryker show up from time to time in more than one Railers story so it wasn’t really surprising that when the authors decided to give us a new adult spin-off to the Railers’ series ‘Ryker’s story was the perfect place to start…but then when Ryker returns home to be with his father and Ten when his family needs him…where do we go?
Well logically of course we need to find out more about the player who’s supposed to fill the gap while Ryker’s away…Scott Caldwell. We met Scott briefly in ‘Ryker’. So I have to admit while I remember the character, I can’t honestly say that my curiosity was tremendously aroused but when I read the blurb for what was next in the ‘Owatonna U Hockey’ series…well, mission accomplished I was curious so much so that I thought maybe I was hyping this one up to much in my mind and I was going to be disappointed…nope, not even a little bit.
I loved this one…the blurb totally hooked me…apparently, I’m a totally sucker for jocks and nerds/geeks especially if said nerd/geek is of an artistic nature. There was just so much about this story that I adored. I loved Scott…was he perfect no…not even close but he was trying, damn this kid was trying so hard and he was by no means a bad kid. Nope, Scott was what I would call a good kid who made some bad choices…the least of which was to use steroids and while the choice was entirely Scott’s like it or not his parents were the biggest contributors to his poor decision making in this regard. But, I loved that when Scott found himself looking at the bottom of the barrel, he didn’t give up. He looked at what he was doing and where his life was going and he kept trying. Thankfully his trying brought Hayne Ritter onto his radar.
I’m not sure I have all the right words to explain how much I loved Hayne and how abso-freakin-lutey adorable I thought Hayne was but ironically Hayne suffered a bit from one of Scott’s problems as well…poor life choices but thankfully not involving drugs…no, in Hayne’s case his poor choice was in roommates, however, when Hayne meets Scott his life choices are good as he decides that he’s going to help Scott.
I adored these two. I love how much Scott saw and appreciate all the things that made Hayne special and unique he never tried to chance him or get him to be different…nope, nope, nope if anything Scott took extra care to ensure that Hayne would be comfortable with him and continue to be Hayne.
With Scott being suspended from the team very early in the game the relationship between him and Hayne was very much front and centre in the story, but what really rounded things out for me was not just the relationship between the two young men but all of the other events and people that connected their lives Hayne’s art, his family…both his mother and grandmother were simply wonderful, Hayne’s struggles with the loss of his best friend to cancer, Scott’s struggles steroid use and with losing his brother whom he adored and the rift it created between him and his family, the rift that Scott tried to place between himself and his friends on the Owatonna U Eagles Hockey team when he gets suspended and yes two of those friends were Ryker and Jacob.
While there was a lot about this story that I truly loved, I think what really stands out in my mind and what I enjoyed the most how the authors dealt with the loss of Scott’s brother and the impact that it had on had on Scott’s self-esteem and especially his relationship with his parents. So often stories dealing with this topic show us the best or the worst of human nature but there is an in between that we don’t often see…both Scott and his parents were dealing with a very tragic loss and while I have to admit I was disappointed in Scott’s parents for much of the story the resolution that Scott and his parents found was for me so well down. There was not quick easy fix, no hearts and roses but a mending of a relationship that felt real and possible. Hopefully we’ll get a peek at things from time to time to see how Scott and his parents are doing at some point in a future story.
While I admit that initially I had my reservations about this series, I absolutely loved every ‘Harrisburg Railers’ book that I’ve read, for me reading the ‘Owatonna U Hockey’ series started more as an act of faith than anything else. Here with ‘Scott’ I can truly say that my faith has been justified and I can’t wait for ‘Benoit’ the next book in this series.
*************************
An ARC of ‘Scott’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Even with Ryker gone the game must go on...
‘Scott’ is book #2 in RJ Scott and V.L. Locey’s ‘Harrisburg Railers’ spin off series ‘Owatonna U Hockey’ which started with ‘Ryker’ whom any Railers fan worth their ice time will tell you is Jared Madsen’s son. So we’ve seen Ryker show up from time to time in more than one Railers story so it wasn’t really surprising that when the authors decided to give us a new adult spin-off to the Railers’ series ‘Ryker’s story was the perfect place to start…but then when Ryker returns home to be with his father and Ten when his family needs him…where do we go?
Well logically of course we need to find out more about the player who’s supposed to fill the gap while Ryker’s away…Scott Caldwell. We met Scott briefly in ‘Ryker’. So I have to admit while I remember the character, I can’t honestly say that my curiosity was tremendously aroused but when I read the blurb for what was next in the ‘Owatonna U Hockey’ series…well, mission accomplished I was curious so much so that I thought maybe I was hyping this one up to much in my mind and I was going to be disappointed…nope, not even a little bit.
I loved this one…the blurb totally hooked me…apparently, I’m a totally sucker for jocks and nerds/geeks especially if said nerd/geek is of an artistic nature. There was just so much about this story that I adored. I loved Scott…was he perfect no…not even close but he was trying, damn this kid was trying so hard and he was by no means a bad kid. Nope, Scott was what I would call a good kid who made some bad choices…the least of which was to use steroids and while the choice was entirely Scott’s like it or not his parents were the biggest contributors to his poor decision making in this regard. But, I loved that when Scott found himself looking at the bottom of the barrel, he didn’t give up. He looked at what he was doing and where his life was going and he kept trying. Thankfully his trying brought Hayne Ritter onto his radar.
I’m not sure I have all the right words to explain how much I loved Hayne and how abso-freakin-lutey adorable I thought Hayne was but ironically Hayne suffered a bit from one of Scott’s problems as well…poor life choices but thankfully not involving drugs…no, in Hayne’s case his poor choice was in roommates, however, when Hayne meets Scott his life choices are good as he decides that he’s going to help Scott.
I adored these two. I love how much Scott saw and appreciate all the things that made Hayne special and unique he never tried to chance him or get him to be different…nope, nope, nope if anything Scott took extra care to ensure that Hayne would be comfortable with him and continue to be Hayne.
With Scott being suspended from the team very early in the game the relationship between him and Hayne was very much front and centre in the story, but what really rounded things out for me was not just the relationship between the two young men but all of the other events and people that connected their lives Hayne’s art, his family…both his mother and grandmother were simply wonderful, Hayne’s struggles with the loss of his best friend to cancer, Scott’s struggles steroid use and with losing his brother whom he adored and the rift it created between him and his family, the rift that Scott tried to place between himself and his friends on the Owatonna U Eagles Hockey team when he gets suspended and yes two of those friends were Ryker and Jacob.
While there was a lot about this story that I truly loved, I think what really stands out in my mind and what I enjoyed the most how the authors dealt with the loss of Scott’s brother and the impact that it had on had on Scott’s self-esteem and especially his relationship with his parents. So often stories dealing with this topic show us the best or the worst of human nature but there is an in between that we don’t often see…both Scott and his parents were dealing with a very tragic loss and while I have to admit I was disappointed in Scott’s parents for much of the story the resolution that Scott and his parents found was for me so well down. There was not quick easy fix, no hearts and roses but a mending of a relationship that felt real and possible. Hopefully we’ll get a peek at things from time to time to see how Scott and his parents are doing at some point in a future story.
While I admit that initially I had my reservations about this series, I absolutely loved every ‘Harrisburg Railers’ book that I’ve read, for me reading the ‘Owatonna U Hockey’ series started more as an act of faith than anything else. Here with ‘Scott’ I can truly say that my faith has been justified and I can’t wait for ‘Benoit’ the next book in this series.
*************************
An ARC of ‘Scott’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2019
I was immersed in RJ Scott and VL Locey's hockey world since reading Changing Lines and as the series evolved and this spin off was created, I'm even more in love with this new group of young hockey players.
Scott got into a new low when his steroid use was exposed, he subsequently barred from playing and kick out from his home by his demanding dad. A chance meeting with the artistic Hayne changes the course of his life.
Hayne is such an adorable character. He had his issue, being emotional and frantic at times, but mostly I just think he is too cute and precious. Despite being bullied throughout his years as a student, he still welcome Scott, who is basically a stranger, into his home with an open heart. I absolutely love reading Hayne's POV. His mind is akin to poetry, it feels magical and I'm amazed the author talents to give Hayne such a distinct voice.
Since Scott is no longer playing, this doesn't feel like the usual hockey story that revolves around the game and the team. However, I'm glad to say that we got some dose of Ryker and Jacob. The friends are a great addition and I wish we get more of their scenes together helping Scott, but mostly it was just a mentioned or there without much details
The romance development started of seamlessly. They are two young man who got together because of their grief, ended up developed a strong bond together. There was the couple drama in between which make me feel a little off. The way it was present, handled and resolved just doesn't sit right with me. Anyhow, it didn't affect my enjoyment of the story, I'm just glad to see things resolved between our two love birds. Overall, I very much enjoyed this new addition to the series, however, it feels short. I want this to come across as a compliment because I wish it was longer. I want more page time with Scott and Hayne and the team. Also I want more sexy scenes.
Scott got into a new low when his steroid use was exposed, he subsequently barred from playing and kick out from his home by his demanding dad. A chance meeting with the artistic Hayne changes the course of his life.
Hayne is such an adorable character. He had his issue, being emotional and frantic at times, but mostly I just think he is too cute and precious. Despite being bullied throughout his years as a student, he still welcome Scott, who is basically a stranger, into his home with an open heart. I absolutely love reading Hayne's POV. His mind is akin to poetry, it feels magical and I'm amazed the author talents to give Hayne such a distinct voice.
Since Scott is no longer playing, this doesn't feel like the usual hockey story that revolves around the game and the team. However, I'm glad to say that we got some dose of Ryker and Jacob. The friends are a great addition and I wish we get more of their scenes together helping Scott, but mostly it was just a mentioned or there without much details
The romance development started of seamlessly. They are two young man who got together because of their grief, ended up developed a strong bond together. There was the couple drama in between which make me feel a little off. The way it was present, handled and resolved just doesn't sit right with me. Anyhow, it didn't affect my enjoyment of the story, I'm just glad to see things resolved between our two love birds. Overall, I very much enjoyed this new addition to the series, however, it feels short. I want this to come across as a compliment because I wish it was longer. I want more page time with Scott and Hayne and the team. Also I want more sexy scenes.
March 24, 2019
I really enjoyed Ryker, the first book in the Owatonna U series, and particularly loved the hockey action as well as its link to the authors' wonderful Harrisburg Railers series.
First off, while I like "Scott" I miss the relative lack of on-ice hockey action. Sure, I realize this book focuses on Scott's inner turmoil and recovery, but throw me a bone here! I would have loved a few hockey scenes since the authors do such a great job of capturing the action. But they do an equally good job of exploring what has brought Scott to this point in his life. He's been suspended from playing hockey for a year due to steroid use, he is basically homeless, he has purposefully cut himself off from his friends on the Owatonna Eagles team, he has been shunned by his hockey-obsessed father, he continues to grieve for his dead brother Luke; Scott is at an incredibly low spot in his life.
His redemption comes in the form of senior art student Hayne, who he meets in a grief recovery group. Hayne invites Scott to move into his attic art studio / apartment and the stage is set for their romance. While Hayne works on his senior art project, Scott slowly begins the work of dealing with his grief. While I love the premise of the plot (grief, recovery, love, acceptance, reconciliation), there is just so much angst and many issues are not fully examined, IMHO.
In a nutshell, because Scott is dealing with so many issues, there is not enough time to adequately address everything, and for me the story ultimately lacks a clear focus. I like the relationship and the oh, so slow romance that starts between Hayne and Scott, and I look forward to learning more about their lives together within the Owatonna U series, but "Scott" does not work for me in many aspects. 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
First off, while I like "Scott" I miss the relative lack of on-ice hockey action. Sure, I realize this book focuses on Scott's inner turmoil and recovery, but throw me a bone here! I would have loved a few hockey scenes since the authors do such a great job of capturing the action. But they do an equally good job of exploring what has brought Scott to this point in his life. He's been suspended from playing hockey for a year due to steroid use, he is basically homeless, he has purposefully cut himself off from his friends on the Owatonna Eagles team, he has been shunned by his hockey-obsessed father, he continues to grieve for his dead brother Luke; Scott is at an incredibly low spot in his life.
His redemption comes in the form of senior art student Hayne, who he meets in a grief recovery group. Hayne invites Scott to move into his attic art studio / apartment and the stage is set for their romance. While Hayne works on his senior art project, Scott slowly begins the work of dealing with his grief. While I love the premise of the plot (grief, recovery, love, acceptance, reconciliation), there is just so much angst and many issues are not fully examined, IMHO.
In a nutshell, because Scott is dealing with so many issues, there is not enough time to adequately address everything, and for me the story ultimately lacks a clear focus. I like the relationship and the oh, so slow romance that starts between Hayne and Scott, and I look forward to learning more about their lives together within the Owatonna U series, but "Scott" does not work for me in many aspects. 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
March 17, 2019
Ugh.
Sigh.
Sorry.
I loved book one SO MUCH! I love this spin off as a concept. I love the adjustment to YA/NA as far as theme and topics and steam. I love all of it.
Except … this mostly didn’t work for me.
I’m a fan. I’m following the stories including the supplementals and sometimes I was confused about what happened. I think a bit more surrounding the steroid crisis itself would have helped. Then I really wanted to see more of Scott’s recovery rather than hearing about it off page. I also didn’t buy the family turn around – it didn’t feel authentic and though I can totally get behind shiny happy HEAs – it didn’t resonate. These authors aren’t shy about giving us angst and drama – so own it! Let his family continue to be as they are – maybe give us some glimmers of hope? But it felt too cleanly tied up given the amount of fuckery they’d engaged in for the last 4 or so years.
I super loved Hayne’s family and I somehow wanted to know more about them at the beginning. I was having a hell of a time picturing him until the family came to town and gave me a more solid picture.
The evil roommates. I think we needed to either make this more of the story’s central theme or get rid of them. They were a distraction and OTT. (I hope they were OTT – sheesh!) I really wanted Craig to get a lot more smack down then he got as it is. What a Douche Bag!
Finally – I don’t know where these boys are going. I love that Ten et al are able to help them out – but I kinda wanted them to have a more concrete plan of their own.
As it stands we have this sort of mix of “reality” like situation meets total fairy land and it was conflicted and hard to follow at times.
I’m not sure how much of this comes from the 2 authors collaborative efforts or just because the story itself lacked cohesion but I felt it here more than in their other works together.
I’m still a fan and I still can’t wait for Benoit but I was disappointed.
2.75 rounded to 3 stars
Sigh.
Sorry.
I loved book one SO MUCH! I love this spin off as a concept. I love the adjustment to YA/NA as far as theme and topics and steam. I love all of it.
Except … this mostly didn’t work for me.
I’m a fan. I’m following the stories including the supplementals and sometimes I was confused about what happened. I think a bit more surrounding the steroid crisis itself would have helped. Then I really wanted to see more of Scott’s recovery rather than hearing about it off page. I also didn’t buy the family turn around – it didn’t feel authentic and though I can totally get behind shiny happy HEAs – it didn’t resonate. These authors aren’t shy about giving us angst and drama – so own it! Let his family continue to be as they are – maybe give us some glimmers of hope? But it felt too cleanly tied up given the amount of fuckery they’d engaged in for the last 4 or so years.
I super loved Hayne’s family and I somehow wanted to know more about them at the beginning. I was having a hell of a time picturing him until the family came to town and gave me a more solid picture.
The evil roommates. I think we needed to either make this more of the story’s central theme or get rid of them. They were a distraction and OTT. (I hope they were OTT – sheesh!) I really wanted Craig to get a lot more smack down then he got as it is. What a Douche Bag!
Finally – I don’t know where these boys are going. I love that Ten et al are able to help them out – but I kinda wanted them to have a more concrete plan of their own.
As it stands we have this sort of mix of “reality” like situation meets total fairy land and it was conflicted and hard to follow at times.
I’m not sure how much of this comes from the 2 authors collaborative efforts or just because the story itself lacked cohesion but I felt it here more than in their other works together.
I’m still a fan and I still can’t wait for Benoit but I was disappointed.
2.75 rounded to 3 stars
April 1, 2019
If you pick up an RJ Scott book you have to expect instalove, it's just a part of her formula. But even if you expect it, sometimes it's still ridiculous and in this case it really was. Scott and Hayne were both in a really shaky place to start any kind of romantic relationship, although of the two, Scott was really in no place to contribute to a healthy relationship. Between grief, self esteem and anger issues, add in alcohol abuse, self destructive behavior, familial shunning and a ridiculous homophobic roommate set up, this wasn't my favorite plotted story.
However, as always, RJS writes great emotional characters that you can really feel for and empathize with their trauma which makes up for a lot of the stale, unimaginative or silly plotting in this one.
However, as always, RJS writes great emotional characters that you can really feel for and empathize with their trauma which makes up for a lot of the stale, unimaginative or silly plotting in this one.
March 28, 2019
I've read and enjoyed all of the books in this series so far, and I'm including the Harrisburg Railers books. They just keep getting better and better. This was such a beautiful tale, with two beautiful MCs, and equally beautiful secondary characters.
My heart kinda broke for Scott, he was just so lost. So much inner turmoil going on with him, and really just existing and not living at all. When he and Hayne do meet, he'd really reached rock bottom.
Hayne is such an innocent in many ways, both sexually and emotionally. I absolutely fell in love with him from the word go, I just wanted to hug him close and destroy anyone in his past who'd made him feel less than. These books seem to bring out all my violent tendencies!
Scott and Hayne are a perfect foil for one another. I loved how Scott really took things slowly and didn't rush or pressurise Hayne, their budding relationship was just perfect, and showed how caring Scott was. I thought that their intimate explorations of one another, and dialogue between them that followed, was just so tender and loving.
And as sweet and romantic as these guys were together, I more so loved the support they received from friends and family; Tyler, Jacob, Tennant and Jared are all there for them. The way everyone banded together to help them out and support them was beautiful. I especially felt thrilled for Hayne to finally discover such intense feelings of happiness for the first time in his life. Such a great read.
Do be aware that this is is an emotional storyline, dealing with the aftermath of loss and the ensuing grief. It demonstrates that grief is very personal and clearly describes the range of feelings a person can go through, as well as the terribleness of how it can affect families. Just saying, don't want anyone to get upset.
I suggest that if you love a love story then this is the book/series and the authors for you. Overall, a beautiful read, with an endearing storyline.
My heart kinda broke for Scott, he was just so lost. So much inner turmoil going on with him, and really just existing and not living at all. When he and Hayne do meet, he'd really reached rock bottom.
Hayne is such an innocent in many ways, both sexually and emotionally. I absolutely fell in love with him from the word go, I just wanted to hug him close and destroy anyone in his past who'd made him feel less than. These books seem to bring out all my violent tendencies!
Scott and Hayne are a perfect foil for one another. I loved how Scott really took things slowly and didn't rush or pressurise Hayne, their budding relationship was just perfect, and showed how caring Scott was. I thought that their intimate explorations of one another, and dialogue between them that followed, was just so tender and loving.
And as sweet and romantic as these guys were together, I more so loved the support they received from friends and family; Tyler, Jacob, Tennant and Jared are all there for them. The way everyone banded together to help them out and support them was beautiful. I especially felt thrilled for Hayne to finally discover such intense feelings of happiness for the first time in his life. Such a great read.
Do be aware that this is is an emotional storyline, dealing with the aftermath of loss and the ensuing grief. It demonstrates that grief is very personal and clearly describes the range of feelings a person can go through, as well as the terribleness of how it can affect families. Just saying, don't want anyone to get upset.
I suggest that if you love a love story then this is the book/series and the authors for you. Overall, a beautiful read, with an endearing storyline.
June 24, 2019
Omg! This was perfection! All the feels! There’s sadness and cuteness and happiness. I’m literally bouncing around with joy 😍
I wasn’t sure where this would go because it was rather harsh for Scott in the beginning. They did have their meet cute so, maybe I should have known this would have been a really cute story. But with substance! It had a bit of dealing with grief but not too heavy.
I definitely saw multiple facets of Scott’s character and I’ll say he definitely had layers to them. Layers of which I am glad to have the chance to explore. Hayne was less complex but so adorable. I wish I could see the paintings he made. They sound spectacular and I’m one who doesn’t know anything about art. But this definitely made me wish I could see and experience the art 😧
There wasn’t really much hockey here. Nor were there much of the other characters. Ryker made the odd cameo but even then it was very much focused on both Scott and Hayne.
I’m going to move on the Benoit now but I’m just not sure if it’s going to stand up to this book! I mean, Ryker was good. This was better. Fingers crossed for Benoit 🤞🤞🤞
I wasn’t sure where this would go because it was rather harsh for Scott in the beginning. They did have their meet cute so, maybe I should have known this would have been a really cute story. But with substance! It had a bit of dealing with grief but not too heavy.
I definitely saw multiple facets of Scott’s character and I’ll say he definitely had layers to them. Layers of which I am glad to have the chance to explore. Hayne was less complex but so adorable. I wish I could see the paintings he made. They sound spectacular and I’m one who doesn’t know anything about art. But this definitely made me wish I could see and experience the art 😧
There wasn’t really much hockey here. Nor were there much of the other characters. Ryker made the odd cameo but even then it was very much focused on both Scott and Hayne.
I’m going to move on the Benoit now but I’m just not sure if it’s going to stand up to this book! I mean, Ryker was good. This was better. Fingers crossed for Benoit 🤞🤞🤞
March 28, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
Scott is the second in the Owatonna U Hockey series, following Ryker. This series is an offshoot from the Harrisburg Railers series and while you don’t have to read those books to follow Owatonna, there are a lot of character crossovers and plot references. So you’ll probably enjoy things more if you have at least passing familiarity with the world of the Harrisburg Railers.
On the whole, I found Scott rather disappointing. I failed to connect with either Scott or Hayne and their relationship never quite made sense to me. There is almost zero hockey action here and that offered another level of disconnection. There isn’t anything wrong with Scott or Hayne as characters, but I didn’t feel that either had much depth. Even when discussing their grief and the losses that made such profound impacts on their life, I just didn’t find them particularly multi-dimensional.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
Scott is the second in the Owatonna U Hockey series, following Ryker. This series is an offshoot from the Harrisburg Railers series and while you don’t have to read those books to follow Owatonna, there are a lot of character crossovers and plot references. So you’ll probably enjoy things more if you have at least passing familiarity with the world of the Harrisburg Railers.
On the whole, I found Scott rather disappointing. I failed to connect with either Scott or Hayne and their relationship never quite made sense to me. There is almost zero hockey action here and that offered another level of disconnection. There isn’t anything wrong with Scott or Hayne as characters, but I didn’t feel that either had much depth. Even when discussing their grief and the losses that made such profound impacts on their life, I just didn’t find them particularly multi-dimensional.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
March 28, 2019
I love the worlds Vicki and RJ have created in both hockey series. This is the second book in the OU series, a spin-off from the Railers.
Scott is struggling from the pressure of living up to his dead brother’s memory. It doesn’t help that he’s also never had a chance to grieve and blames himself, though he had nothing to do with his death. To deal with it all, he tries self medicating and ends up getting caught.
Hayne is a fellow student he meets in grief counseling and helps him when he most needs it by giving him a place to stay until he gets on his feet.
This was a pretty sweet romance. The two become friends first, which I always prefer, before develop feelings. I also like how Scott was not afraid to stick up for Hayne against his other roommates when they harass them about being gay and letting Scott stay there.
I will say this has very little hockey, and while I miss it, the story does fine without it.
*i received an ARC
Scott is struggling from the pressure of living up to his dead brother’s memory. It doesn’t help that he’s also never had a chance to grieve and blames himself, though he had nothing to do with his death. To deal with it all, he tries self medicating and ends up getting caught.
Hayne is a fellow student he meets in grief counseling and helps him when he most needs it by giving him a place to stay until he gets on his feet.
This was a pretty sweet romance. The two become friends first, which I always prefer, before develop feelings. I also like how Scott was not afraid to stick up for Hayne against his other roommates when they harass them about being gay and letting Scott stay there.
I will say this has very little hockey, and while I miss it, the story does fine without it.
*i received an ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2019
😭😭😭😍😍😍😍😭😭😭😍😍😍😭😍😭😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍❤💙💜
August 16, 2021
3.5 stars
March 27, 2019
3.5 stars - I knew Scott had some major issues, but I wasn’t expecting them to be quite so difficult. His troubles go back to the loss of his brother, from which he still feels an enormous about of guilt and grief. Add to that are his useless parents who Scott can do nothing to please. They blame him, wish he was the one who died and treat Scott horribly. At least his father does. His mother just turns a blind eye to it all. Under all the pressure, he turns to steroids to make his game better in an effort to hopefully make his father proud. It backfires, of course, and his father, not surprisingly, turns his back on him and kicks him out. Lucky for him, he runs into Hayne while at a mandatory counseling session.
Hayne is the total opposite of Scott. A reclusive artist who doesn’t have any friends and basically lets people walk all over him, including his tenants, who bully him and generally treat him horribly. Those guys really needed to be shown some things about how to be a human being. He, too, is struggling with grief over the loss of his best friend which puts him in the same grief counseling session as Scott. So, total opposites, but they have some things in common, and luckily, Scott sees and holds on to a good thing and takes advantage of and returns the kindness that Hayne shows him from the start. It doesn’t take long for the attraction to grow, and while Scott isn’t gay, he has no issues whatsoever with his attraction to Hayne.
Also luckily for Scott, he has some great friends on his team who don’t let him push him away for too long. I loved seeing those guys again. Scott’s family does come around, but I was not as easy to forgive them as Scott was. This was not my favorite story in this spinoff series, but I enjoyed it all the same. There were a lot of issues being dealt with, and none of them every seemed to fully flesh out for me. And there are so many characters to not like. Perhaps it is due to the younger aged characters in this series. I’m still looking forward to the next installment. However, if you are a hockey fan, I highly recommend you give the Harrisburg Railers series a try. It has some fabulous characters and will give you a solid start into the characters in this one.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
March 19, 2019
I had to read this in one sitting. HAD to. Gah.
Seriously, the Scott and Locey team has quickly become one of my favorites. I've grown so very fond of all of their books, but I love the hockey series and while this wasn't completely centered around the craziness of the rink, it was hockey-related. And there was a cameo made by Tennant Rowe, so....swoon.
Told in dual alternating POV's, Scott and Hayne's story was stunning. The juxtaposition of two very, very different characters just worked big time in this story. Hayne was small and lean, with a pretty face and beautiful curls. He was wary of most people, jocks in particular. Being around anyone who could potentially cause harm was a trigger. And yet. He had taken in Scott with open arms, his heart on his sleeve.
Scott had made mistakes. He was gripped with grief, in a place where he couldn't be reached and finally hit rock bottom. With the loss of almost everything, he found someone who could help him heal and rebuild. Someone who could have watched him suffer, but wouldn't.
So, my takeaway from this was pretty much OMG READ THIS BOOK. I fell in love with Hayne and his artsy prose from the start. My heart squeezed each time he winced in worry. If I could ever have a book best friend, it would be Hayne. He was epic.
Scott cradled his heart and made a home for it within his and I have to say, to write a big, husky, burly guy who can flick at gentle curls and have the patience and kindness that he did was awesome. These boys just totally worked so well and I am just sitting here in book hangover heaven.
Well done. All the stars. I want more!!!
*Galley copy generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Seriously, the Scott and Locey team has quickly become one of my favorites. I've grown so very fond of all of their books, but I love the hockey series and while this wasn't completely centered around the craziness of the rink, it was hockey-related. And there was a cameo made by Tennant Rowe, so....swoon.
Told in dual alternating POV's, Scott and Hayne's story was stunning. The juxtaposition of two very, very different characters just worked big time in this story. Hayne was small and lean, with a pretty face and beautiful curls. He was wary of most people, jocks in particular. Being around anyone who could potentially cause harm was a trigger. And yet. He had taken in Scott with open arms, his heart on his sleeve.
Scott had made mistakes. He was gripped with grief, in a place where he couldn't be reached and finally hit rock bottom. With the loss of almost everything, he found someone who could help him heal and rebuild. Someone who could have watched him suffer, but wouldn't.
So, my takeaway from this was pretty much OMG READ THIS BOOK. I fell in love with Hayne and his artsy prose from the start. My heart squeezed each time he winced in worry. If I could ever have a book best friend, it would be Hayne. He was epic.
Scott cradled his heart and made a home for it within his and I have to say, to write a big, husky, burly guy who can flick at gentle curls and have the patience and kindness that he did was awesome. These boys just totally worked so well and I am just sitting here in book hangover heaven.
Well done. All the stars. I want more!!!
*Galley copy generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
May 8, 2023
J'aurais pu adoré ce tome deux si seulement il ne manquait pas un pan total du développement de la relation entre Scott et Hayne !
Scott, après un match désastreux, perd tout ce qu'il a. Sa dépendance aux médicaments est découvertes, il a agressé son meilleur ami et son père l'a mis à la porte. Après deux semaines dans des motels miteux, il va à sa première réunion du deuil et fait la rencontre de Hayne, un artiste dans ma lune, renfermé qui vit dans une grande maison en coloc avec des sportifs. Il va proposer à Scott de dormir chez lui.
J'ai beaucoup aimé les deux personnages. Hayne est l'archétype de l'artiste doux, incompris et gay, qui se cache du monde parce qu'il a du mal avec les interactions sociales. Scott n'a que le hockey dans sa vie et depuis la mort de son frère aîné, il traine un chagrin énorme qu'il a enfoui dans l'alcool puis les médicaments. Entre les deux, ça sera tout de suite le coup de foudre, surtout chez Scott qui va très vite montrer des gestes affectueux envers Hayne.
Malgré toute la construction très bien faite de l'histoire, cela va beaucoup trop vite. La relation entre Scott et Hayne se développe en peu de temps que le papier mais aussi dans le récit. J'ai trouvé ça assez dérangeant dans ma lecture. Et même dans certains points de l'histoire, comme par exemple sa dépendance qui n'est absolument pas développé, comme si elle avait disparu à la seconde où cela avait été découvert. C'est un sujet très grave et pourtant cela a été mis de côté très vite.
Malgré tout, c'était une lecture très douce qui m'a fait beaucoup pleuré par moment.
Scott, après un match désastreux, perd tout ce qu'il a. Sa dépendance aux médicaments est découvertes, il a agressé son meilleur ami et son père l'a mis à la porte. Après deux semaines dans des motels miteux, il va à sa première réunion du deuil et fait la rencontre de Hayne, un artiste dans ma lune, renfermé qui vit dans une grande maison en coloc avec des sportifs. Il va proposer à Scott de dormir chez lui.
J'ai beaucoup aimé les deux personnages. Hayne est l'archétype de l'artiste doux, incompris et gay, qui se cache du monde parce qu'il a du mal avec les interactions sociales. Scott n'a que le hockey dans sa vie et depuis la mort de son frère aîné, il traine un chagrin énorme qu'il a enfoui dans l'alcool puis les médicaments. Entre les deux, ça sera tout de suite le coup de foudre, surtout chez Scott qui va très vite montrer des gestes affectueux envers Hayne.
Malgré toute la construction très bien faite de l'histoire, cela va beaucoup trop vite. La relation entre Scott et Hayne se développe en peu de temps que le papier mais aussi dans le récit. J'ai trouvé ça assez dérangeant dans ma lecture. Et même dans certains points de l'histoire, comme par exemple sa dépendance qui n'est absolument pas développé, comme si elle avait disparu à la seconde où cela avait été découvert. C'est un sujet très grave et pourtant cela a été mis de côté très vite.
Malgré tout, c'était une lecture très douce qui m'a fait beaucoup pleuré par moment.
May 6, 2021
H A Y N E
He was perfection and he and Scott together were so cute. I loved how Scott worked through his issues and how it wasn’t easy. Hopefully we see more of his senior year in Ben’s book. But Hayne being an artist was EVERYTHING.
He was perfection and he and Scott together were so cute. I loved how Scott worked through his issues and how it wasn’t easy. Hopefully we see more of his senior year in Ben’s book. But Hayne being an artist was EVERYTHING.
September 21, 2024
Good
4 stars
I really enjoyed this one. I love the whole artistic person with the jock, it just works for me.
I loved Scott in this one. We see his problems come to the forefront and I really liked his ability to take on the responsibility for what happened. He didn’t try and pass the blame and play all innocent. He took responsibility early and then did what he had to, to keep his life moving forward. His horror at previous misdeeds was also well done. I just wish he would have let the guys back in a lot earlier but also understood where he was coming from.
Hayne was a treasure. He went against all his fears of the jocks and asked Scott to move in with him. I really enjoyed his artistic expression and how it was portrayed. He was able to give Scott exactly what he needed to get his life back on track.
Looking forward to Ben’s story
4 stars
I really enjoyed this one. I love the whole artistic person with the jock, it just works for me.
I loved Scott in this one. We see his problems come to the forefront and I really liked his ability to take on the responsibility for what happened. He didn’t try and pass the blame and play all innocent. He took responsibility early and then did what he had to, to keep his life moving forward. His horror at previous misdeeds was also well done. I just wish he would have let the guys back in a lot earlier but also understood where he was coming from.
Hayne was a treasure. He went against all his fears of the jocks and asked Scott to move in with him. I really enjoyed his artistic expression and how it was portrayed. He was able to give Scott exactly what he needed to get his life back on track.
Looking forward to Ben’s story
September 23, 2019
After the death of his brother, guilt and misguided love from his parents have caused Scott to crash and burn. Thrown off the hockey team due to drug abuse ends up being the last straw and Scott finds himself thrown out of the house and left to deal with life on his own. But a brief interaction with a stranger becomes the lifeline he needs to start a new beginning. But will the help from this unlikely soul, artist Hayne, be the bright light in a dull sky? Can you really start over and find out what really matters in the big scheme of things? With beautifully written characters and a storyline filled with raw emotions and pain this was a fabulous read. I think Scott is one of the most complex characters written in the series that the reader will instantly fall in love with.
April 5, 2023
Darum geht’s:
Scott versucht so gut wie möglich, seinen toten Bruder zu ersetzen, doch den hohen Ansprüchen seines Vaters kann er nicht gerecht werden. Als er Alkohol und Steroide zu Hilfe nimmt, wird er für ein Jahr aus der Eishockeymannschaft suspendiert und sein Vater setzt ihn vor die Tür. Nur der Künstler Hayne verhindert, dass Scott obdachlos wird, denn er lässt Scott bei sich in seinem Atelier-Dachboden wohnen. Und stellt fest, dass Scott seine Kreativität entscheidend beeinflusst.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Scott versucht so gut wie möglich, seinen toten Bruder zu ersetzen, doch den hohen Ansprüchen seines Vaters kann er nicht gerecht werden. Als er Alkohol und Steroide zu Hilfe nimmt, wird er für ein Jahr aus der Eishockeymannschaft suspendiert und sein Vater setzt ihn vor die Tür. Nur der Künstler Hayne verhindert, dass Scott obdachlos wird, denn er lässt Scott bei sich in seinem Atelier-Dachboden wohnen. Und stellt fest, dass Scott seine Kreativität entscheidend beeinflusst.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
June 19, 2023
This was another very emotional book, but I was prepared from what I’d seen in Ryker’s book and the summary. Trigger warnings for death, grief, homelessness, bullying/homophobia, alcohol/substance abuse, mentions of someone else self-harming, etc. Hayne was the first artistic character from all the books I read from this duo, and I absolutely adored him. He was so creative, vibrant, and got lost in his art. Watching him create and his process was so stimulating. I can understand why Scott liked watching.
Scott was batting a lot of demons since he hasn’t dealt with his grief and neither had his family. My heart went out to him and the way things were handled, but I was glad he found Hanye who had such a big heart. I would have liked to see some justice for the dbag whose name I can’t even remember after Danny posted the second video. He was a disgusting human being and I wanted him to get punished.
I loved seeing these two men that were kind of opposites come together because of their grief. I would have liked to see a little more of Hayne dealing with his grief since his best friend was only mentioned maybe 2-3 times. I thought he’d still being pretty messed up over it, but I guess he kind of had to be strong for Scott and show him the way. I would have liked to see a little more of Scott’s hockey teammates as well. But overall, this was probably my favorite book so far. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Scott was batting a lot of demons since he hasn’t dealt with his grief and neither had his family. My heart went out to him and the way things were handled, but I was glad he found Hanye who had such a big heart. I would have liked to see some justice for the dbag whose name I can’t even remember after Danny posted the second video. He was a disgusting human being and I wanted him to get punished.
I loved seeing these two men that were kind of opposites come together because of their grief. I would have liked to see a little more of Hayne dealing with his grief since his best friend was only mentioned maybe 2-3 times. I thought he’d still being pretty messed up over it, but I guess he kind of had to be strong for Scott and show him the way. I would have liked to see a little more of Scott’s hockey teammates as well. But overall, this was probably my favorite book so far. 4.5 out of 5 stars.
September 24, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Loved this, steamy and enjoyable MM romance
💋💋💋
Loved this, steamy and enjoyable MM romance
February 9, 2020
I'm told this is a New Adult book, but that had zero impact on my enjoyment.
I feel bad that I'm not reviewing all of these individually, but they tend to run together when you're binging them... Which I'm only doing because life's harder than usual these days and I need the comfort.
I came to the right place.
I feel bad that I'm not reviewing all of these individually, but they tend to run together when you're binging them... Which I'm only doing because life's harder than usual these days and I need the comfort.
I came to the right place.
March 12, 2019
A beautifully layered character who views the world through an artist’s lens, a magnificently flawed man struggling to overcome a life-changing loss, and an appearance by Jared and Ten (of the authors’ Railers’ series fame) make this book a must-read. Although this can be read as a stand-alone, reading #1 (Ryker) does make the reading experience that much richer, as the supporting characters are old friends.
The authors beautifully capture the stress of balancing university work, part-time jobs, collegiate sports and relationships. They also, unfortunately in this case, capture the essence of extreme homophobia which is difficult to read but a reality for many in the LGBTQ+ community. These heavier moments are nicely offset by lighthearted prose, for example when a character waxes lyrical about the Minnesota winter weather (“Dying of exposure moving from class to class was a real possibility”).
The characters are easy to root for, particularly the underdog Hayne. In making Scott’s protective instincts flare, the authors also illicit similar feelings in the reader. Hayne’s family are the supportive and encouraging folks everyone wishes were theirs.
Anyone who likes swoon-worthy dialogue, contrasting characters and an extra splash of vibrancy courtesy of Hayne’s inner colourful dialogue would love this book.
Reviewer was provided an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
The authors beautifully capture the stress of balancing university work, part-time jobs, collegiate sports and relationships. They also, unfortunately in this case, capture the essence of extreme homophobia which is difficult to read but a reality for many in the LGBTQ+ community. These heavier moments are nicely offset by lighthearted prose, for example when a character waxes lyrical about the Minnesota winter weather (“Dying of exposure moving from class to class was a real possibility”).
The characters are easy to root for, particularly the underdog Hayne. In making Scott’s protective instincts flare, the authors also illicit similar feelings in the reader. Hayne’s family are the supportive and encouraging folks everyone wishes were theirs.
Anyone who likes swoon-worthy dialogue, contrasting characters and an extra splash of vibrancy courtesy of Hayne’s inner colourful dialogue would love this book.
Reviewer was provided an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 15, 2019
Having read many of the authors’ books as I was interested to read this YA series, and this one, along with #1, Ryker, just show that no matter what stage of life you’re at, or what your upbringing is, life can hit you for six and leave you floundering, not knowing where to turn or how to get out of the hole you’ve found yourself in. You’ll see from the blurb that Scott is adrift, with no-one to turn to until he meets Hayne. Hayne becomes a comfort to Scott and one he didn’t even know he needed. But true to the authors’ talent, it’s no easy ride from here on in. Hayne’s got his own struggles too and it’s a bumpy road that these two are navigating.
There’s just something magical that happens when these two authors collaborate, they really reach in and make you feel every emotion. It’s agonising and heart-breaking at times, but they balance it out beautifully with the joy and euphoria you can feel when you realise that there is an escape from the darkness, and it is going to be okay and that you’ve got someone remarkable by your side who you just don’t want to live without. There’s a lot happening here; along with the trademark hockey action and a great supporting cast and it’s such a fantastic addition to the series.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
There’s just something magical that happens when these two authors collaborate, they really reach in and make you feel every emotion. It’s agonising and heart-breaking at times, but they balance it out beautifully with the joy and euphoria you can feel when you realise that there is an escape from the darkness, and it is going to be okay and that you’ve got someone remarkable by your side who you just don’t want to live without. There’s a lot happening here; along with the trademark hockey action and a great supporting cast and it’s such a fantastic addition to the series.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
March 27, 2019
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
College hockey player Scott’s self-destructive behaviour has world is imploding. He loses the plot on the ice, punches his best made, confesses to his coach that he is on steroids. Hayne is an artist and an art major. He has a lovely, giving soul and he is full of emotion and generosity. As a reader that knows nothing about art, seeing Hayne’s passion and enthusiasm for painting was exciting. I’d never read a character like Hayne before, he is enchanting.
At first glance Scott isn’t the most likely hero with his life all upside down but Hayne see Scott in a different light. It wasn’t long before I was seeing Scott in a different light too, I wanted to take care of him. This is a romance about two young men who are very different but fit together perfectly. Their romance is beautiful and I loved seeing them look after each other and at time in their lives when everything around them was changing.
This story is a good example of why I am so enamoured with m/m hockey romances. It is simply lovely.
College hockey player Scott’s self-destructive behaviour has world is imploding. He loses the plot on the ice, punches his best made, confesses to his coach that he is on steroids. Hayne is an artist and an art major. He has a lovely, giving soul and he is full of emotion and generosity. As a reader that knows nothing about art, seeing Hayne’s passion and enthusiasm for painting was exciting. I’d never read a character like Hayne before, he is enchanting.
At first glance Scott isn’t the most likely hero with his life all upside down but Hayne see Scott in a different light. It wasn’t long before I was seeing Scott in a different light too, I wanted to take care of him. This is a romance about two young men who are very different but fit together perfectly. Their romance is beautiful and I loved seeing them look after each other and at time in their lives when everything around them was changing.
This story is a good example of why I am so enamoured with m/m hockey romances. It is simply lovely.
March 27, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series - and is a really good addition to the family of stories by this talented duet of authors. I would recommend that you read the first book in the series, and even better the Harrisburg Railers books, which links through to this series.
I do warn you that you will need to have a tissue or two to hand! And maybe not for the reasons you might initially expect. A beautiful, tough and sweet story unfolds through this book, and much like Hayne's painting style, it is by turns frantic, frenetic and colourful, but then slow, and grey and dark.
Whatever you do, do not be put off by the unlikely star, who does little to make us like him in the first chapter. Be patient, allow the story to be told, and whilst there may be no good reason for that action, mercy is a human trait that should never be forgotten.
I plan on reading this book again, it has many beautiful parts which will bring light and hope to a dull day. Thank you R.J.Scott and V.Locey once again.
This is the second book in the series - and is a really good addition to the family of stories by this talented duet of authors. I would recommend that you read the first book in the series, and even better the Harrisburg Railers books, which links through to this series.
I do warn you that you will need to have a tissue or two to hand! And maybe not for the reasons you might initially expect. A beautiful, tough and sweet story unfolds through this book, and much like Hayne's painting style, it is by turns frantic, frenetic and colourful, but then slow, and grey and dark.
Whatever you do, do not be put off by the unlikely star, who does little to make us like him in the first chapter. Be patient, allow the story to be told, and whilst there may be no good reason for that action, mercy is a human trait that should never be forgotten.
I plan on reading this book again, it has many beautiful parts which will bring light and hope to a dull day. Thank you R.J.Scott and V.Locey once again.
April 1, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-gmR
From that story:Scott is the second in the Owatonna series which started with Ryker, a story I loved. These characters and novels are connected with the much loved Harrisburg Railers Series by the same authors (Ryker is the son of two of the main mcs). So yes, hockey, both the game and a team, is the framework for this series as well. Owatonna is the college and team that both Ryker and Scott play for. Except in Scott's case, that's about to come to a crashing halt.And that's where this book deviates from most of the other stories. Hockey plays a decidedly lesser role here. The laser focus is on Scott, the trauma behind his actions, the deep set grief and guilt he has never dealt with, along with Hayne, the young artist who has struggled with his own crucial loss. It's a mighty combination of gripping emotional issues, moving characters, and a study in relationships and fractured families.
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-gmR
From that story:Scott is the second in the Owatonna series which started with Ryker, a story I loved. These characters and novels are connected with the much loved Harrisburg Railers Series by the same authors (Ryker is the son of two of the main mcs). So yes, hockey, both the game and a team, is the framework for this series as well. Owatonna is the college and team that both Ryker and Scott play for. Except in Scott's case, that's about to come to a crashing halt.And that's where this book deviates from most of the other stories. Hockey plays a decidedly lesser role here. The laser focus is on Scott, the trauma behind his actions, the deep set grief and guilt he has never dealt with, along with Hayne, the young artist who has struggled with his own crucial loss. It's a mighty combination of gripping emotional issues, moving characters, and a study in relationships and fractured families.
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
April 5, 2019
Sweet romance….
If you are looking for a lot of hockey in this second installment of Owatonna U Hockey, you won’t find it here. What you will find, however, is a sweet, drama-filled romance that worked well without it…
Hayne is a new addition to the cast of familiar characters and he was a breath of artistic air. He cringed away from the big hockey players, his stature and orientation had made him wary of the stronger, testosterone-laden bullies. He’d met them before…. Scott, however, may have been a big, tall guy but his personality was warm and thoughtful, even if he was a jock. Together, they created their own magic even as they both struggled with surviving….
I loved this story with characters that struggled with some very serious issues. They had a lot to deal with, maybe too much, but they took it in stride and managed to juggle it all, and their new relationship, in a way that felt just right. It’s all about love and Hayne and Scott knew it when they saw it, and cherished it all the more. So good!
March 29, 2019
This was a lovely surprise. Not quite the hockey romance I was expecting, it’s the story of a student who has to rebuild his life when he is given a one year ban from hockey. Hayne is Scott’s unlikely hero. The athlete and the artist soon find they have more in common than either would ever have expected.
This is a heavier read than I expected. It is grief that initially brings Hayne and Scott together and the boys’ experiences and emotions feel very raw and very real. Other darker themes also weave through the story. So while the connection between Hayne and Scott feels very sweet and almost innocent, this is a pretty gritty read at times.
I love the connection between Hayne and Scott. They balance each other beautifully and their college romance is wonderful. This is the second book in this series, but it is the first one with a real focus on university life beyond hockey. I love the characters and I’m eager for several characters to get their own books.
This is a heavier read than I expected. It is grief that initially brings Hayne and Scott together and the boys’ experiences and emotions feel very raw and very real. Other darker themes also weave through the story. So while the connection between Hayne and Scott feels very sweet and almost innocent, this is a pretty gritty read at times.
I love the connection between Hayne and Scott. They balance each other beautifully and their college romance is wonderful. This is the second book in this series, but it is the first one with a real focus on university life beyond hockey. I love the characters and I’m eager for several characters to get their own books.
May 4, 2019
3.5 star read to be precise.
I'm struggling a little with the rating of this one, to be honest. I'm quite a big fan of these authors, and usually love their hockey collaborations. And I did enjoy this one as well, it just isn't as strong as I've come to expect from them.
I felt there were some things missing, particularly in a story where one of the characters is in a very bad place. I feel the authors, in this instance, have done themselves (and Scott and Hayne) a disservice by, what feels like, rushing through all the issues.
All in all, not my favourite book of the series, but still a good read overall.
I'm struggling a little with the rating of this one, to be honest. I'm quite a big fan of these authors, and usually love their hockey collaborations. And I did enjoy this one as well, it just isn't as strong as I've come to expect from them.
I felt there were some things missing, particularly in a story where one of the characters is in a very bad place. I feel the authors, in this instance, have done themselves (and Scott and Hayne) a disservice by, what feels like, rushing through all the issues.
All in all, not my favourite book of the series, but still a good read overall.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews