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Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid #2
Loving Layne
Sometimes the last thing you expect to happen might turn out to be what you needed all along.
Roman Kennedy’s first trip to the Windy City isn’t going quite as planned. Mysteries intrigue him, and his best friend Dillon seems to be sitting on a whopper. So, with his grandfather’s favorite hat on his head and his notebook in hand, the journalism major starts digging. Sadly, getting his bestie to spill the beans on what the secret is isn’t as easy as Roman had hoped.
Now, through no fault of his own, he’s stuck in an expensive hotel attending a bachelor auction of all things. He’s surrounded by lumbering jocks who, he’s sure, are just waiting for the chance to poke fun at the skinny, gay Jewish guy. Imagine his surprise when one of the big lugs sits down with him and talks Bernstein and Woodward.
Layne Coleman is sexy as sin, smart as a whip, considerably older, and has the same passion for investigative journalism as Roman does. His deep blue eyes and dark hair make concentrating on anything but the soft kisses they’re now sharing difficult. Roman’s keen instincts are understandably clouded by romance, so when Dillon reveals his secret in a highly public way, it’s hard to say who is more stunned—Roman or Layne, the man at the center of it all.
Roman Kennedy’s first trip to the Windy City isn’t going quite as planned. Mysteries intrigue him, and his best friend Dillon seems to be sitting on a whopper. So, with his grandfather’s favorite hat on his head and his notebook in hand, the journalism major starts digging. Sadly, getting his bestie to spill the beans on what the secret is isn’t as easy as Roman had hoped.
Now, through no fault of his own, he’s stuck in an expensive hotel attending a bachelor auction of all things. He’s surrounded by lumbering jocks who, he’s sure, are just waiting for the chance to poke fun at the skinny, gay Jewish guy. Imagine his surprise when one of the big lugs sits down with him and talks Bernstein and Woodward.
Layne Coleman is sexy as sin, smart as a whip, considerably older, and has the same passion for investigative journalism as Roman does. His deep blue eyes and dark hair make concentrating on anything but the soft kisses they’re now sharing difficult. Roman’s keen instincts are understandably clouded by romance, so when Dillon reveals his secret in a highly public way, it’s hard to say who is more stunned—Roman or Layne, the man at the center of it all.
129 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 7, 2020
98 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
V.L. Locey
212 books728 followersV.L. Locey loves worn jeans, Dr. Who, Torchwood, belly laughs, yoga, reading and writing lusty tales, walking, Greek mythology, the New York Rangers, comic books, and coffee. (Not necessarily in that order.)
She shares her life with her husband, her daughter, one dog, two cats, and a flock of assorted domestic fowl.
When not writing lusty tales, she can be found enjoying her day with her menagerie in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, fresh cup of java in hand.
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://vllocey.com/Newsletter
She shares her life with her husband, her daughter, one dog, two cats, and a flock of assorted domestic fowl.
When not writing lusty tales, she can be found enjoying her day with her menagerie in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, fresh cup of java in hand.
Sign up for my newsletter here: http://vllocey.com/Newsletter
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April 13, 2020
Loving Layne by V.L. Locey, is part of the Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid series. This is a M/M, sports, age gap romance. It part of a five book series, each by a different author. V.L. is a new to me author and I quickly realized I love the way she writes.
This story is told completely from Roman Kennedy’s point of view. Full disclosure here, age gap isn’t my favorite genre, and I usually prefer it when both male partners are equally alpha. With that being said, I couldn’t help but to fall in love with Roman. He is twenty two years old, and is in his last year of college as a journalism major. I feel like Roman was born in the wrong era. He was very close to his late grandfather who was also a journalist. He now wore his grandfather’s fedora, drove his car, and even listened to his music. Roman was highly intelligent and owned who he was without thinking twice. The one thing he isn’t is athletic in any way. And he often suffered from the way he was treated by the jocks growing up. Roman is snarky, fun, ethical to a fault, and I loved him.
Layne Coleman is a thirty eight year old hockey player for the Jersey Jackals. He is planning to retire after this season is over. He’s led a successful career, playing for twenty years for the same team. He’s in Chicago as a participant for the Hockey Allies Bachelor Auction. He’s at breakfast when he first sees an adorable man eating breakfast alone while reading in a corner. He can’t help himself. He has to meet him.
Roman is in Chicago with his best friend and college roommate, Dillon. He has no idea why they are here. Dillon isn’t telling him anything and is obviously distraught over something. He’s being mysterious which wakes up all of Roman’s journalistic senses. But Dillon isn’t sharing anything. So that’s why Roman’s alone at breakfast when an Adonis of a man approaches him and sits down.
As Roman and Layne are getting to know each other and quickly falling for each other, Dillon is making plans to reveal something in a very big way. What started out being a mysterious trip to Chicago, ended up being a life changing weekend for everyone involved.
I really did love this. It was pretty short but I still had plenty of time to fall for Roman and Layne. Roman’s head was such a fun place to be. This is the third book I’ve read in this series and each one is so different. It’s such a great way to get to know new authors. I look forward to the next one on the list, Keeping Kyle, by Jeff Adams.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
April 5, 2020
3.5*
Vicki's offering in this new shared world ice hockey series is an age gap romance with added complications.
As a former journalist, Roman's dedication to his craft had me smiling a lot as he navigated his way into the realisation that staying neutral when reporting isn't always easy.
His best mate Dillon was an absolute arse, sorry but I don't care how much he was hurting, that was some seriously shitty behaviour!
The plot mostly worked for me, it felt like a realistic possibility given the situation but I'd have liked to see a bit more of the fallout when the truth came out.
Loved the Epilogue.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Vicki's offering in this new shared world ice hockey series is an age gap romance with added complications.
As a former journalist, Roman's dedication to his craft had me smiling a lot as he navigated his way into the realisation that staying neutral when reporting isn't always easy.
His best mate Dillon was an absolute arse, sorry but I don't care how much he was hurting, that was some seriously shitty behaviour!
The plot mostly worked for me, it felt like a realistic possibility given the situation but I'd have liked to see a bit more of the fallout when the truth came out.
Loved the Epilogue.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
October 30, 2021
3.5 Rounded Up
So apparently, the nice, eloquent review I wrote earlier never posted (because I forgot to hit submit). So here’s my thoughts in a less pretty prosesque package.
I enjoyed so many aspects of this book: from Roman’s entertaining mental tangents to the way he and Lane connected and bonded over all things journalism. It was Roman’s journalistic brain, however, that sometimes got annoying once the 💩 hit the fan. I understood his desire to find out the truth, to get all of the facts, but it almost felt over-the-top. Maybe because of the connection he had to all parties involved.
As for the secret, I had an inkling about the nature of the situation, but I was definitely not prepared for the reveal. My goodness that was wild. And I think the role that Roman played, as connected to everyone but not directly involved with anything worked for the story’s length. Otherwise, that would have been a lot of emotion to pack in.
Dillon, the best friend, was a lot and I don’t know how I feel about things seeming to resolve so quickly between him and Roman. Yes, we all get he was hurting but the things he said… and my only complaint about Lane is that it felt like he dismissed Roman’s hurt/frustration about the situation because of his position. With that said, Roman didn’t delve into all of the details, and it was a really complicated situation but still…
Finally, the romance. I did feel Roman and Lane’s attraction, but I think I needed a bit more time to believe the depth of their relationship.
Overall, this was a lot of story packed into a short read and I feel like it was mostly executed well. I’d definitely recommend.
So apparently, the nice, eloquent review I wrote earlier never posted (because I forgot to hit submit). So here’s my thoughts in a less pretty prosesque package.
I enjoyed so many aspects of this book: from Roman’s entertaining mental tangents to the way he and Lane connected and bonded over all things journalism. It was Roman’s journalistic brain, however, that sometimes got annoying once the 💩 hit the fan. I understood his desire to find out the truth, to get all of the facts, but it almost felt over-the-top. Maybe because of the connection he had to all parties involved.
As for the secret, I had an inkling about the nature of the situation, but I was definitely not prepared for the reveal. My goodness that was wild. And I think the role that Roman played, as connected to everyone but not directly involved with anything worked for the story’s length. Otherwise, that would have been a lot of emotion to pack in.
Dillon, the best friend, was a lot and I don’t know how I feel about things seeming to resolve so quickly between him and Roman. Yes, we all get he was hurting but the things he said… and my only complaint about Lane is that it felt like he dismissed Roman’s hurt/frustration about the situation because of his position. With that said, Roman didn’t delve into all of the details, and it was a really complicated situation but still…
Finally, the romance. I did feel Roman and Lane’s attraction, but I think I needed a bit more time to believe the depth of their relationship.
Overall, this was a lot of story packed into a short read and I feel like it was mostly executed well. I’d definitely recommend.
April 11, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
4.5*s of clever twisty goodness!
This is a story in the Hockey Allies Bachelor Bids collection - and I am really enjoying having a slew of new books to read with a common theme, but different authors. I love the premise for this story which both fits in the hockey auction set up, and explains why Ash has to suddenly step up.
There isn't really a lot of hockey action in this story - although the little bit there is, is wonderfully amusing. But the sports side of the story is the why for the big reveal. I find it very clever as I write my review, that the two parallel stories that play out in this short novel are both interesting in their own right, and brilliantly linked. Because of that I am reluctant to give anything away!
I will tell you that Roman and Layne are seriously cute and hot together, and whilst they certainly act in extreme speed, there is more than just chemistry to them, they clearly enjoy each others' knowledge of investigative journalists. It is hot, fun and well written - grab a copy and enjoy!
4.5*s of clever twisty goodness!
This is a story in the Hockey Allies Bachelor Bids collection - and I am really enjoying having a slew of new books to read with a common theme, but different authors. I love the premise for this story which both fits in the hockey auction set up, and explains why Ash has to suddenly step up.
There isn't really a lot of hockey action in this story - although the little bit there is, is wonderfully amusing. But the sports side of the story is the why for the big reveal. I find it very clever as I write my review, that the two parallel stories that play out in this short novel are both interesting in their own right, and brilliantly linked. Because of that I am reluctant to give anything away!
I will tell you that Roman and Layne are seriously cute and hot together, and whilst they certainly act in extreme speed, there is more than just chemistry to them, they clearly enjoy each others' knowledge of investigative journalists. It is hot, fun and well written - grab a copy and enjoy!
November 8, 2023
Darum geht’s:
Roman begleitet seinen Freund Dillon nach Chicago, weil der dort etwas Wichtiges zu erledigen hat. Was, das verschweigt Dillon. Während er sich immer mehr in sein geheimnisvolles Vorhaben hineinsteigert, lernt Roman einen älteren Mann kennen, der offensichtlich zur Gruppe Sportler gehört, die im selben Hotel abgestiegen sind. Es funkt sofort heftig zwischen den beiden. Und dann lässt Dillon die Bombe platzen.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Roman begleitet seinen Freund Dillon nach Chicago, weil der dort etwas Wichtiges zu erledigen hat. Was, das verschweigt Dillon. Während er sich immer mehr in sein geheimnisvolles Vorhaben hineinsteigert, lernt Roman einen älteren Mann kennen, der offensichtlich zur Gruppe Sportler gehört, die im selben Hotel abgestiegen sind. Es funkt sofort heftig zwischen den beiden. Und dann lässt Dillon die Bombe platzen.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
April 4, 2020
Loving Layne is a quick read, and, as a result, it felt like some aspects of it were a bit rushed. There were some times I didn’t care for Roman or Dillion because of some of the things they said to one another, but I adored Layne and felt sorry for him at times. Not only was he caught between Roman and Dillion, but he’s also been blindsided with news he didn’t expect. I thought he handled everything the best he could.
Layne and Roman could really relate to one another, despite their age difference. They worked well as a couple, which made it easy to root for them to get their HEA.
Despite the couple of issues I had with it, I enjoyed the story, which is about family, friendship, and love.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy**
Layne and Roman could really relate to one another, despite their age difference. They worked well as a couple, which made it easy to root for them to get their HEA.
Despite the couple of issues I had with it, I enjoyed the story, which is about family, friendship, and love.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy**
May 4, 2020
Oh my! Such drama! Lol
Roman is a journalism college student who is whisked away to Chicago with his best friend for a reason his friend isn’t willing to share. Dillion is super grumpy and refuses to talk with Roman while he tries to figure stuff out. Roman is now having to entertain himself in Chicago and meets the gorgeous Layne. Layne is a hockey player 16 years older than Roman. They are quickly smitten and their relationship moves quickly.
Then the drama comes in a way I kind of saw coming. Luckily it doesn’t affect their relationship in an angsty way. I loved how the author wrote the main story line, but also how the story dealt with Roman’s interpretation of journalism and how personal privacy is affected.
This was well written and very enjoyable!
Roman is a journalism college student who is whisked away to Chicago with his best friend for a reason his friend isn’t willing to share. Dillion is super grumpy and refuses to talk with Roman while he tries to figure stuff out. Roman is now having to entertain himself in Chicago and meets the gorgeous Layne. Layne is a hockey player 16 years older than Roman. They are quickly smitten and their relationship moves quickly.
Then the drama comes in a way I kind of saw coming. Luckily it doesn’t affect their relationship in an angsty way. I loved how the author wrote the main story line, but also how the story dealt with Roman’s interpretation of journalism and how personal privacy is affected.
This was well written and very enjoyable!
July 21, 2023
Meh. Not for me at all. Massive age gap, insta-love, no swoon, too much spice, lack of communication causing all of the drama, somehow-dating-my-friend's-dad. Homophobic comments thrown around BY the best friend just because "I knew it would hurt you most".
April 12, 2020
This is another one of those books that has to go on my "it might be me not the book" shelf. I don't know what happened, it was an interesting premise but I just couldn't connect to the story or the guys.
TAGS
-- sports/hockey -- fast easy read -- age difference -- likeable MCs... Layne & Roman -- best friend's dad -- I didn't feel any spark -- had trouble connecting -- interesting premise -- not really a stand alone -- it might be me not the book
TAGS
-- sports/hockey -- fast easy read -- age difference -- likeable MCs... Layne & Roman -- best friend's dad -- I didn't feel any spark -- had trouble connecting -- interesting premise -- not really a stand alone -- it might be me not the book
January 19, 2022
great main couple, age gap, sexy and romantic
Rating: 4.25🌈
Hockey, V.L. Locey, age gap…done well and hot? Plus an intelligent nerd with a thing for great hats, Mel Tormé, and a classic car? I’m all in!
Part of a 6 book-series, Hockey Allies Bid M/M Romance Collection from six different authors, Loving Layne is V.L. Locey’s addition to this terrific series.
A fan both of the game, the players, and LGBTQIA+ hockey romances, I loved a series about a group of Hockey Allies at a charity event and the romances that sprang from it.
Locey didn’t disappoint with two amazing characters here.
Roman Kennedy, a journalism major, who’s very background oozes ink for the presses, is on a mysterious road-trip with his college roommate and best friend to Chicago.
Ah , Roman. He’s the one with the beloved newshound grandfather in his past. The one who left him the stylishly older fashioned hats Roman wears, the music tracks and vinyl of music he listens to, and the classic car Roman inherited that he drives. Roman is that character you adore immensely.
The other main character is Layne Coleman, NHL hockey player, one year away from retirement. A ten year age gap but actually mentally and emotionally… no separation. They click! Like two pieces that immediately get each other.
Locey writes them as two souls who as they talk , it’s not just physical chemistry, but a meeting of two like minds… and hearts. So the reader is so on board with their romance and relationship.
Roman and Layne are great together. I love their section of this story.
There’s a drama that plays our quickly and a mystery that most will have figured out almost immediately.
The elements that I find , well if not likable, but then perhaps less dimensional, are Dillon, Mrs. Coleman, and Mrs North.
Maybe they have just less “page time” but whatever the reason they come across as less fleshed out then the main couple. Especially Dillon. He’s nothing but action and emotion. There doesn’t seem to be any real depth to him.
Which was fine, it was Layne and Roman I really cared about and they had a wonderful ending. I could even do with another story about them. I liked them that much!
Here’s another hockey romance winner from a author who’s great at both writing hockey and romance.
Grab it up and enjoy!
Here’s the entire series:
Hockey Allies Bid M/M Romance Collection:
- [ ] Guarding Garrett #1 by R.J. Scott
- [x] Loving Layne #2 by V.L. Locey
- [ ] Keeping Kyle #3 by Jeff Adams
- [ ] Scoring Slater #4 by Susan Scott Shelley
- [ ] Absolving Ash #5 by Chantal Mer
Rating: 4.25🌈
Hockey, V.L. Locey, age gap…done well and hot? Plus an intelligent nerd with a thing for great hats, Mel Tormé, and a classic car? I’m all in!
Part of a 6 book-series, Hockey Allies Bid M/M Romance Collection from six different authors, Loving Layne is V.L. Locey’s addition to this terrific series.
A fan both of the game, the players, and LGBTQIA+ hockey romances, I loved a series about a group of Hockey Allies at a charity event and the romances that sprang from it.
Locey didn’t disappoint with two amazing characters here.
Roman Kennedy, a journalism major, who’s very background oozes ink for the presses, is on a mysterious road-trip with his college roommate and best friend to Chicago.
Ah , Roman. He’s the one with the beloved newshound grandfather in his past. The one who left him the stylishly older fashioned hats Roman wears, the music tracks and vinyl of music he listens to, and the classic car Roman inherited that he drives. Roman is that character you adore immensely.
The other main character is Layne Coleman, NHL hockey player, one year away from retirement. A ten year age gap but actually mentally and emotionally… no separation. They click! Like two pieces that immediately get each other.
Locey writes them as two souls who as they talk , it’s not just physical chemistry, but a meeting of two like minds… and hearts. So the reader is so on board with their romance and relationship.
Roman and Layne are great together. I love their section of this story.
There’s a drama that plays our quickly and a mystery that most will have figured out almost immediately.
The elements that I find , well if not likable, but then perhaps less dimensional, are Dillon, Mrs. Coleman, and Mrs North.
Maybe they have just less “page time” but whatever the reason they come across as less fleshed out then the main couple. Especially Dillon. He’s nothing but action and emotion. There doesn’t seem to be any real depth to him.
Which was fine, it was Layne and Roman I really cared about and they had a wonderful ending. I could even do with another story about them. I liked them that much!
Here’s another hockey romance winner from a author who’s great at both writing hockey and romance.
Grab it up and enjoy!
Here’s the entire series:
Hockey Allies Bid M/M Romance Collection:
- [ ] Guarding Garrett #1 by R.J. Scott
- [x] Loving Layne #2 by V.L. Locey
- [ ] Keeping Kyle #3 by Jeff Adams
- [ ] Scoring Slater #4 by Susan Scott Shelley
- [ ] Absolving Ash #5 by Chantal Mer
April 7, 2020
Hot and Spicy!
Loving Layne features Roman, a somewhat nerdy college student who loves hats and old music. He's studying journalism and wants to do investigative pieces. He never expects to hookup with a hockey star and never imagined that a jock could be so smart. They find out they have a lot of common interests and things progress quickly from there.
Layne is in Chicago for the All Star weekend. He will be one of the players up for bid during the Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid Auction. When he hooks up with Roman, he is instantly smitten and doesn't care that Roman is young enough to be his son.
The focus of this story isn't the age-gap between Roman and Layne and I liked that about it. The gap is acknowledged but not beat to death. Roman is in Chicago because his best friend, Dillon, has something going on which he won't talk about, and Dillon's mother didn't want him to be alone.
The story is written in perfect V.L. Locey style with witty and snarky dialogue and hot as fire sexy time. I never guessed what Dillon's secret was until it was revealed. I really can't say much more about the book without giving away spoilers.
I'll close by saying that I really enjoyed everything about this story and I thought that Layne and Roman fit perfectly together.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (Posting on April 9, 2020)
Loving Layne features Roman, a somewhat nerdy college student who loves hats and old music. He's studying journalism and wants to do investigative pieces. He never expects to hookup with a hockey star and never imagined that a jock could be so smart. They find out they have a lot of common interests and things progress quickly from there.
Layne is in Chicago for the All Star weekend. He will be one of the players up for bid during the Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid Auction. When he hooks up with Roman, he is instantly smitten and doesn't care that Roman is young enough to be his son.
The focus of this story isn't the age-gap between Roman and Layne and I liked that about it. The gap is acknowledged but not beat to death. Roman is in Chicago because his best friend, Dillon, has something going on which he won't talk about, and Dillon's mother didn't want him to be alone.
The story is written in perfect V.L. Locey style with witty and snarky dialogue and hot as fire sexy time. I never guessed what Dillon's secret was until it was revealed. I really can't say much more about the book without giving away spoilers.
I'll close by saying that I really enjoyed everything about this story and I thought that Layne and Roman fit perfectly together.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (Posting on April 9, 2020)
April 7, 2020
VL Locey's Loving Lane is a fun hockey romance. The second book in the multi-author Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid series, it's a fantastic contribution.
Roman and Layne's story is both fun and delicious. With a large age gap, these two meet and hit it off. The two men bond over their love of literature, which is awesome. I adore that despite appearing to have nothing in common, they really are a great fit.
What follows is a story full of secrets, disagreements, and some tension. Their story includes a large age gap, some great conflict, and just the right amount of angst. Add in the fun surprises with Roman's best friend, and this is a great story.
The auction scene is definitely not what I was expecting, but I love it all. Best of all, despite having underlying angst throughout, the author does a great job of keeping it relatively angst free.
Loving Layne is a perfect addition to the start of this multi author series. Be sure to read this, and all the books, as the characters will make repeat experiences. And it's all wonderfully done!
Book One -
https://amysmmromancereviews.blogspot...
Book Two -
https://amysmmromancereviews.blogspot...
Roman and Layne's story is both fun and delicious. With a large age gap, these two meet and hit it off. The two men bond over their love of literature, which is awesome. I adore that despite appearing to have nothing in common, they really are a great fit.
What follows is a story full of secrets, disagreements, and some tension. Their story includes a large age gap, some great conflict, and just the right amount of angst. Add in the fun surprises with Roman's best friend, and this is a great story.
The auction scene is definitely not what I was expecting, but I love it all. Best of all, despite having underlying angst throughout, the author does a great job of keeping it relatively angst free.
Loving Layne is a perfect addition to the start of this multi author series. Be sure to read this, and all the books, as the characters will make repeat experiences. And it's all wonderfully done!
Book One -
https://amysmmromancereviews.blogspot...
Book Two -
https://amysmmromancereviews.blogspot...
August 30, 2022
Going along with his best friend Dillon from New Jersey to Chicago, was a mystery Roman couldn't pass up. Dillon wouldn't tell him why he was mad and going there, so Roman gave him space.
At breakfast alone at the hotel, unique Roman found jocks everywhere. One sits with him, Layne, and the two strangers hit it off, because Layne shares Roman's affinity of good writers and journalists to look up to, and they end up spending the day touring Chicago and visiting museums.
* Roman, 22, a thin Jewish journalist has
brown eyes, fluffy, dark hair like cotton candy, is intelligent, witty and curious.
* Layne, 38, short brown hair, scruff, tall,
blue eyed and burly Hockey player, liked Roman right away. He's there with the sport association to participate in the charity auction.
Roman and Layne are having a wonderful fling and begin to hope it will carry on when they get back home. Dillon is still not telling Roman what he's up to, and hides in the room, while Roman and Layne are falling hard for each other, in and out of bed.
Their sex is a furnace of hot loving and rocking each of their souls. They are fun together, and talk and hang out so easily, even with the age gap. Roman is an "old soul" because of his close relationship with his dear grandfather who passed away.
Moving on, Dillon surprisingly shows up at the charity auction and creates havoc, a horrible attempt at defaming Layne, and it has devastating consequences.
Dillon leaves for home stranding Roman, and after the dust settles and they are all back home, we find out more. It's an unlikely person who is the one responsible for the deception that played out in all of these folks lives.
I liked this interesting tale of a hidden secret, a reveal and the thoughts that followed.
The characters are not flawless, they feel real. We feel their confusion and the deep love that has developed.
Enjoy !
=====
At breakfast alone at the hotel, unique Roman found jocks everywhere. One sits with him, Layne, and the two strangers hit it off, because Layne shares Roman's affinity of good writers and journalists to look up to, and they end up spending the day touring Chicago and visiting museums.
* Roman, 22, a thin Jewish journalist has
brown eyes, fluffy, dark hair like cotton candy, is intelligent, witty and curious.
* Layne, 38, short brown hair, scruff, tall,
blue eyed and burly Hockey player, liked Roman right away. He's there with the sport association to participate in the charity auction.
Roman and Layne are having a wonderful fling and begin to hope it will carry on when they get back home. Dillon is still not telling Roman what he's up to, and hides in the room, while Roman and Layne are falling hard for each other, in and out of bed.
Their sex is a furnace of hot loving and rocking each of their souls. They are fun together, and talk and hang out so easily, even with the age gap. Roman is an "old soul" because of his close relationship with his dear grandfather who passed away.
Moving on, Dillon surprisingly shows up at the charity auction and creates havoc, a horrible attempt at defaming Layne, and it has devastating consequences.
Dillon leaves for home stranding Roman, and after the dust settles and they are all back home, we find out more. It's an unlikely person who is the one responsible for the deception that played out in all of these folks lives.
I liked this interesting tale of a hidden secret, a reveal and the thoughts that followed.
The characters are not flawless, they feel real. We feel their confusion and the deep love that has developed.
Enjoy !
=====
December 27, 2023
Roman tiene 20 años y está en su último año de universidad. Su sueño es ser periodista. Se encuentra inesperadamente en Chicago durante el fin de semana del NHL All Star alojado en un hotel con un montón de jugadores de hockey, acompañando a su mejor amigo, pero no tiene ni idea del motivo ni de lo que está tramando.
Layne es un jugador de hockey profesional de 38 años que está en el último año de su carrera antes de su retiro. Está en Chicago para participar en la subasta de solteros que ha organizado el grupo Aliados del Hockey.
Desayunando en el hotel, se fija en un chico que está solo leyendo un libro que resulta ser Roman. Pasan mucho tiempo juntos durante el fin de semana y rápidamente se enamoran el uno del otro. Sin embargo, es una sorpresa cuando el mejor amigo de Roman interrumpe la subasta para anunciar públicamente que Layne es su padre y que dejó a su madre embarazada a los 15 años. Evidentemente, no todo es lo que parece, pero se forma un embrollo que Roman tiene y quiere arreglar porque Layne le importa de verdad.
Este romance con diferencia de edad entre un jugador de hockey que descubre que tiene un hijo secreto y un aspirante a periodista que resulta ser el mejor amigo del hijo secreto no me ha gustado. No he logrado conectar con su historia; ha sido un amor demasiado instantáneo. El mejor amigo de Roman me ha caído fatal; hace muchos comentarios homófobos y se comporta como un idiota.
#M-M-romance #Sports-romance #Hockey-romance #Age-gap
Layne es un jugador de hockey profesional de 38 años que está en el último año de su carrera antes de su retiro. Está en Chicago para participar en la subasta de solteros que ha organizado el grupo Aliados del Hockey.
Desayunando en el hotel, se fija en un chico que está solo leyendo un libro que resulta ser Roman. Pasan mucho tiempo juntos durante el fin de semana y rápidamente se enamoran el uno del otro. Sin embargo, es una sorpresa cuando el mejor amigo de Roman interrumpe la subasta para anunciar públicamente que Layne es su padre y que dejó a su madre embarazada a los 15 años. Evidentemente, no todo es lo que parece, pero se forma un embrollo que Roman tiene y quiere arreglar porque Layne le importa de verdad.
Este romance con diferencia de edad entre un jugador de hockey que descubre que tiene un hijo secreto y un aspirante a periodista que resulta ser el mejor amigo del hijo secreto no me ha gustado. No he logrado conectar con su historia; ha sido un amor demasiado instantáneo. El mejor amigo de Roman me ha caído fatal; hace muchos comentarios homófobos y se comporta como un idiota.
#M-M-romance #Sports-romance #Hockey-romance #Age-gap
July 28, 2020
Synopsis: Roman Kennedy’s first trip to the Windy City isn’t going quite as planned. Mysteries intrigue him, and his best friend Dillon seems to be sitting on a whopper. So, with his grandfather’s favorite hat on his head and his notebook in hand, the journalism major starts digging. Sadly, getting his bestie to spill the beans on what the secret is isn’t as easy as Roman had hoped. He’s surrounded by lumbering jocks who, he’s sure, are just waiting for the chance to poke fun at the skinny, gay Jewish guy. Imagine his surprise when one of the big lugs sits down with him and talks Bernstein and Woodward. Layne Coleman is sexy as sin, smart as a whip, considerably older, and has the same passion for investigative journalism as Roman does. His deep blue eyes and dark hair make concentrating on anything but the soft kisses they’re now sharing difficult. Roman’s keen instincts are understandably clouded by romance, so when Dillon reveals his secret in a highly public way, it’s hard to say who is more stunned—Roman or Layne, the man at the center of it all.
Review: This was a very enjoyable read. Roman is hilarious and the his reaction to Layne is sweet. While there is some angst, it is low level and both of them are decent guys. The story is told well and the pacing is excellent.
Review: This was a very enjoyable read. Roman is hilarious and the his reaction to Layne is sweet. While there is some angst, it is low level and both of them are decent guys. The story is told well and the pacing is excellent.
April 13, 2020
This is the 2nd of this series I’ve read, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first one. This story is a feel good easy read, and I read it one sitting.
I loved Roman, his geekiness, and his determination. The Star Trek references were great, and I liked how he didn’t know anything about sport, or what was going on at the hotel, so was attracted to Layne on looks and personality, then learnt who he was. Layne’s a good guy who has been put in an impossible situation by someone who meant well. I loved his and Roman’s relationship and how they bonded over their love of journalism. The name of the puppy is brilliant.
I liked Professor Willis, Roman’s faculty advisor. I’d love to read his story.
I thought the story played out well, and enjoyed the friendship between Roman and Dillon too, despite the rockiness of it. It felt realistic, as did the steps toward mending bridges between all those affected by the secret.
Although I did guess some of the plot it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story, as I had to keep reading to see how both Layne and Roman reacted, and to make sure they got their HEA.
Another enjoyable read by this author, who is a favourite.
I loved Roman, his geekiness, and his determination. The Star Trek references were great, and I liked how he didn’t know anything about sport, or what was going on at the hotel, so was attracted to Layne on looks and personality, then learnt who he was. Layne’s a good guy who has been put in an impossible situation by someone who meant well. I loved his and Roman’s relationship and how they bonded over their love of journalism. The name of the puppy is brilliant.
I liked Professor Willis, Roman’s faculty advisor. I’d love to read his story.
I thought the story played out well, and enjoyed the friendship between Roman and Dillon too, despite the rockiness of it. It felt realistic, as did the steps toward mending bridges between all those affected by the secret.
Although I did guess some of the plot it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story, as I had to keep reading to see how both Layne and Roman reacted, and to make sure they got their HEA.
Another enjoyable read by this author, who is a favourite.
April 10, 2020
“Oh what a tangled web we weave” could have been a nice summary for this book. And although the intersecting of the characters was complex, the story was divine and the emotions pure.
Layne is a big D-man at the twilight of his career. Roman is a young journalism student whose every desire is to hunt down and ferret out the truth. Roman’s best friend Dillon is sitting on a huge secret, which results in them ending up in a glitzy hotel in Chicago. The Bachelor Bid Auction which the five books centre around takes a back seat to the drama Dillon stirs up.
Locey is at her best when she has a lot of balls in the air and this story allows her to shine. She created quirky characters (love Roman’s hats and car), throws them together in unexpected ways and grabs the popcorn to sit back and watch the fall-out with the rest of us.
The blurb makes it seem as if the story will be harder to follow than it actually is (to my relief — my self-isolation brain is clumsy). The plot-lines are clear, the characters full and the romance sweet.
Layne is a big D-man at the twilight of his career. Roman is a young journalism student whose every desire is to hunt down and ferret out the truth. Roman’s best friend Dillon is sitting on a huge secret, which results in them ending up in a glitzy hotel in Chicago. The Bachelor Bid Auction which the five books centre around takes a back seat to the drama Dillon stirs up.
Locey is at her best when she has a lot of balls in the air and this story allows her to shine. She created quirky characters (love Roman’s hats and car), throws them together in unexpected ways and grabs the popcorn to sit back and watch the fall-out with the rest of us.
The blurb makes it seem as if the story will be harder to follow than it actually is (to my relief — my self-isolation brain is clumsy). The plot-lines are clear, the characters full and the romance sweet.
April 2, 2020
I’ve been excited about this series and all the authors involved, V.L. Locey scores!! This was fantastic! A great short real, packed full of laughter, a little angst and some hot lovin!! Layne is a professional hockey player who meets Roman while in Chicago for a bachelor auction. Not only do they have intelligent conversation but they set the sheets on fire! Roman is there with his best friend who is troubled and says he just needs Roman to leave him alone until he has done what he is here for. Dillon will not say what it is that he dragged Roman to Chicago.
The night of the auction, it all comes out, Dillon has found out who his father is. How will all this play out? Will Roman and Layne make a go of it? Will Roman and Dillon remain friends?
You have to read this book, it was cute, complicated, fun and the joy of falling in love and finding your family! Stars, stars and more stars!!!!!!
The night of the auction, it all comes out, Dillon has found out who his father is. How will all this play out? Will Roman and Layne make a go of it? Will Roman and Dillon remain friends?
You have to read this book, it was cute, complicated, fun and the joy of falling in love and finding your family! Stars, stars and more stars!!!!!!
April 5, 2020
Review by: Jennifer
(3.5 stars)
When college student Roman goes on bit of a road trip with his best friend Dillion, all he knows is that Dillion has a secret and he is along for the ride and hopefully will figure out what's going on. When they get to their destination there just happens to be a bachelor auction with loads of huge hockey players. When Roman meets Layne, one of the older hockey players, sparks ignite and the two end up spending a bit of time together. But when everything is over and Roman ends up with an achy heart, an angry best friend, and no clue as to what to do with the situation that he found himself in. Can Roman figure out a way to make everyone happy, himself included?
So, this was ok for me, super fast paced, and I was really digging it until about 50% when the big reveal happened. After that, I was just annoyed. There was loads of drama, age gap romance, hockey, best friend being a d-bag... and loads more that I wont spoil. I give this 3.5 stars.
(3.5 stars)
When college student Roman goes on bit of a road trip with his best friend Dillion, all he knows is that Dillion has a secret and he is along for the ride and hopefully will figure out what's going on. When they get to their destination there just happens to be a bachelor auction with loads of huge hockey players. When Roman meets Layne, one of the older hockey players, sparks ignite and the two end up spending a bit of time together. But when everything is over and Roman ends up with an achy heart, an angry best friend, and no clue as to what to do with the situation that he found himself in. Can Roman figure out a way to make everyone happy, himself included?
So, this was ok for me, super fast paced, and I was really digging it until about 50% when the big reveal happened. After that, I was just annoyed. There was loads of drama, age gap romance, hockey, best friend being a d-bag... and loads more that I wont spoil. I give this 3.5 stars.
April 6, 2020
A quick but really enjoyable read, with a touch of mystery and angst. Mostly, it's lighthearted and the dialogue and investigative journalism certainly made Roman and Layne a really fun pair. I would've loved for it to have been a bit longer but it worked well with what was there. The story flowed nicely and I didn't feel like it was missing anything major. I liked the chemistry between Roman and Layne (and I especially love the age gap trope), and the whole mystery surrounding Dillon's announcement did it's job of keeping me intrigued. I'm super excited about this bachelor auction as a premise for an interconnected - but can be read as standalone - series, and I can't wait to read the rest of them.
April 17, 2020
Loved it.
Told purely from the POV of Roman, the love interest, rather than Layne, the hockey player,this gave an entirely different view on the world of hockey. Roman is a geek and has clue about sports, so the one hockey scene we do get in this book is a joy of confusion and shirt colours.
Although this is an age gap romance (which this author does so well) Roman is an old soul, so the age gap never feels like the 16 years it is. The relationship is one of those 'when you meet the right one you know' but never felt insta-lovey.
The story has much to say on the role of the press, the right to the truth versus an individuals right to privacy, all filtered through the eyes of a wannabe journalist.
Highly recommended.
Told purely from the POV of Roman, the love interest, rather than Layne, the hockey player,this gave an entirely different view on the world of hockey. Roman is a geek and has clue about sports, so the one hockey scene we do get in this book is a joy of confusion and shirt colours.
Although this is an age gap romance (which this author does so well) Roman is an old soul, so the age gap never feels like the 16 years it is. The relationship is one of those 'when you meet the right one you know' but never felt insta-lovey.
The story has much to say on the role of the press, the right to the truth versus an individuals right to privacy, all filtered through the eyes of a wannabe journalist.
Highly recommended.
July 20, 2021
I am sorry, but worst book I have ever read or close to it.
Authors do a great job keeping people reading and not everyone is going to like a story. But this one was terrible, poor Dillion, he is young, hurt and feels portrayed. Maybe he didn’t handle things correctly, but his friend not having his back and who continues to sleep with his father and blames Dillion for everything. Dillion’s mum blames him only his dad Layne does not completely blame him. The funny thing is the story is about Layne and Roman but is mainly about Dillion. Just an unbelievable story, no chemistry between Roman and Layne. Why Roman has to do a news story about it all 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️. Never finished it. Book 1 and 3 in the series are brilliant.
Authors do a great job keeping people reading and not everyone is going to like a story. But this one was terrible, poor Dillion, he is young, hurt and feels portrayed. Maybe he didn’t handle things correctly, but his friend not having his back and who continues to sleep with his father and blames Dillion for everything. Dillion’s mum blames him only his dad Layne does not completely blame him. The funny thing is the story is about Layne and Roman but is mainly about Dillion. Just an unbelievable story, no chemistry between Roman and Layne. Why Roman has to do a news story about it all 🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️🤷🏽♂️. Never finished it. Book 1 and 3 in the series are brilliant.
April 7, 2020
Well written story only complaint is length of story - little over 100 pages which only takes me an hour to read.
Roman accompanies his friend Dillon to Chicago for the All Star game and meets Layne during breakfast. They discuss authors and reporters that they both enjoy reading their work.
Roman and Layne hit it off despite their age gap until everything comes crashing down when Dillon drops his bombshell that his reason for being in Chicago is to confront his father that didn’t want him.
Roman is stuck trying to figure out the truth on Dillons father, keeping his friendship with Dillon and his relationship with Layne.
Quick read - had a little mystery but a whole lot of anger from Dillon.
~~~ ARC kindly provided by the author for honest review ~~~
Roman accompanies his friend Dillon to Chicago for the All Star game and meets Layne during breakfast. They discuss authors and reporters that they both enjoy reading their work.
Roman and Layne hit it off despite their age gap until everything comes crashing down when Dillon drops his bombshell that his reason for being in Chicago is to confront his father that didn’t want him.
Roman is stuck trying to figure out the truth on Dillons father, keeping his friendship with Dillon and his relationship with Layne.
Quick read - had a little mystery but a whole lot of anger from Dillon.
~~~ ARC kindly provided by the author for honest review ~~~
April 4, 2020
Loving Layne is cuteness overload. I was completely charmed by Roman, and could just picture how adorable he must have been with his fluffy hair, old fashioned hats and his mannerism. I totally see why Layne was immediately enamored with him and his sweetness, then eventually wanting more than just a quick romp in the sack.
There was a bit of family drama involved in the story, with Roman caught in the middle, but thanks to the way he related it I smiled all through it. I also really enjoyed the sweet and the sexy times between him and Layton, and their romance.
There was a bit of family drama involved in the story, with Roman caught in the middle, but thanks to the way he related it I smiled all through it. I also really enjoyed the sweet and the sexy times between him and Layton, and their romance.
April 9, 2020
Roman and Layne's story was fantastic to read. Their connection was instant! So much in common . In the way they think and their interests. Roman has an old soul. So what if there is a 16 yr age difference and Roman is best friends with Layne's son Dillion? Love is love and when it's right and when it's real there are no obstacles you can't overcome. Hotness is running rampant throughout this story and I for one loved it. I absolutely love these two! This is a great addition to the Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid Series.
April 9, 2020
Short, sweet, sexy romance about revenge, May/December, best friend father and hockey. Roman is a quiet, romantic, old soul journalist who is invited on a road trip with his best friend Dillion. Layne is a well-know out of the closet gay hockey player. Dillion is out for revenge but his best friend doesn't know it. Roman and Layne are attracted to each other from the moment they meet and they hit it off in and out of bed. Once the secret is out they decide to keep seeing each other and wanted to fix the relationship with Dillion The book is sweet and short and enjoyed it.
April 11, 2020
This was a fun and sexy, quick read. Roman was a young man with an old soul, and he made me laugh several times. I can totally understand how older man Layne would fall for Roman. For his part, Layne was sexy and caring, a perfect combination, so of course Roman was smitten.
There were some serious issues going on in this story, but nothing distracted me from the romance between Roman and Layne. Their relationship was easy and perfect, when nothing else was. I loved this book, and I look forward to reading the related books in this series.
There were some serious issues going on in this story, but nothing distracted me from the romance between Roman and Layne. Their relationship was easy and perfect, when nothing else was. I loved this book, and I look forward to reading the related books in this series.
April 5, 2020
I loved Loving Layne. I like that it is part of the series, Hockey Allies Bachelor Bid written by different authors. So lots of stories with a small connection. I loved the premise of the story and how it was resolved. Layne and Roman are such a great combination, with a great age gap thing going on, that was definitely part of the story, but not a problem. They were funny, it was fast-paced and super hot and sexy. I definitely recommend this novella and I can’t wait to read the rest of them.
April 6, 2020
I really liked this novella – the only problem I had with it is that I wished it was a bit longer just so that the chemistry could develop more for me. It felt a little short in that area.
But the rest was quite enjoyable; I loved that Roman was an old soul and was living his life by journalistic standards if I can call them that.
All in all it was an OK read and I’m giving it -4* rating.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
But the rest was quite enjoyable; I loved that Roman was an old soul and was living his life by journalistic standards if I can call them that.
All in all it was an OK read and I’m giving it -4* rating.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
April 9, 2020
I loved this age gap romance! Roman and Layne couldn't appear more opposite at first glance. Roman, a college student and Layne, an older professional hockey player. Appearances can be deceiving. These two are absolutely perfect for each other. Until an unexpected discovery shakes things up. I loved how they worked together to keep the connection they had built. While things might have seemed uncertain they never gave up on their HEA! Loved the epilogue!
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