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Nathan Barres has always loved hockey more than anything else, and as captain of his team the pressure is on to perform well. When a hook up with Felix Moore stirs feelings he’s not comfortable with, he flees the scene. He's not expecting to see Felix ever again. So when an injury knocks him out at the start of a new season, he's less than pleased to see the Winnipeg Wolves newest physical therapist is none other than his one night fling.
Time hasn’t dulled their chemistry, and Nathan’s feelings are back like they’d never left. When Felix proposes a way to burn through the energy between them, how is Nathan supposed to say no. It might be all fun and games to Felix, but Nathan needs to get whatever this is out of his system. Unrequited love? No, thank you.
Time hasn’t dulled their chemistry, and Nathan’s feelings are back like they’d never left. When Felix proposes a way to burn through the energy between them, how is Nathan supposed to say no. It might be all fun and games to Felix, but Nathan needs to get whatever this is out of his system. Unrequited love? No, thank you.
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2016
About the author
Meg Harding
41 books112 followersMeg Harding is a graduate student, currently studying MA Publishing in the UK. She plans to continue on to become an editor, all while continuing to write. When she isn't writing she enjoys the theatre, concerts, and lazing about in front of the TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 28, 2016
This is my third book by this author in the last month or so and I think I'm almost ready to ask her to go steady on this book writing/book reading thing we got going. I don't want to jump the gun or anything but I think things are going well.
Annnyyyyywaaayyy.
This is another contemporary romance involving hockey players. Nathan is the captain of the Winnipeg Wolves. He's out to his teammates but not the media, so he keeps his hookups on the DL. He meets Felix in a bar after a road game win and sparks fly. Then he leaves without so much as a goodbye while Felix is still comatose from the brain melting sex.
Fast forward 1 year and 7 months and guess who just got hired as the new trainer for the Winnipeg Wolves?
Awkward. Well, Nathan thinks it is. Felix seems unfazed. And so it begins...
These two are definitely dudes being dudes. They suck at communication. They make assumptions about one another that aren't true. They're both jealous as all get out if either of them even looks at another guy. And they're completely and totally oblivious to each other's behaviors.
I found this to be sort of endearing and kept laughing at how dumb they were. I mean, for all intents and purposes they are dating exclusively and having sex regularly, but neither of them realize it. They have lunch every day. They exercise together. They know what flavor cupcakes the other likes and sandwiches. They hang out and play video games alone and with the other guys. Felix helps him pick out a Christmas present for Ivan, the Russian with a "close" relationship to his cat.
I mean... YOU'RE TOTALLY TOGETHER, DIMWITS!!!!!!!!!!!
We only get Nathan's perspective and his cluelessness is both trying and entertaining. He keeps trying to convince himself they can be friends and that the lucky sex Felix offers will simply help him get over Felix.
Has that ever worked out for anyone ever? Show of hands?
Eventually they are forced by the team to use their words which was hilarious. Harding really knows how to write team dynamics which is my favorite part of a sports themed book. Ivan with his broken English and his cat were weird and cute. And I have a suspicion that Renner might be bi, so I'm wondering if this will turn into a series. I would not be mad about that.
I'm impressed with the range of this author. Even though everything I've read by her has been contemporary each of her characters have been unique and each plot varied. That's laudable.
I'd recommend to readers and appreciate stupid boys being stupid. And cute. Or hockey fans.
As a side note, I don't normally talk about covers but this cover is...not good. I'm not sure who those guys are but they are not Nathan and Felix.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Annnyyyyywaaayyy.
This is another contemporary romance involving hockey players. Nathan is the captain of the Winnipeg Wolves. He's out to his teammates but not the media, so he keeps his hookups on the DL. He meets Felix in a bar after a road game win and sparks fly. Then he leaves without so much as a goodbye while Felix is still comatose from the brain melting sex.
Fast forward 1 year and 7 months and guess who just got hired as the new trainer for the Winnipeg Wolves?
Awkward. Well, Nathan thinks it is. Felix seems unfazed. And so it begins...
These two are definitely dudes being dudes. They suck at communication. They make assumptions about one another that aren't true. They're both jealous as all get out if either of them even looks at another guy. And they're completely and totally oblivious to each other's behaviors.
I found this to be sort of endearing and kept laughing at how dumb they were. I mean, for all intents and purposes they are dating exclusively and having sex regularly, but neither of them realize it. They have lunch every day. They exercise together. They know what flavor cupcakes the other likes and sandwiches. They hang out and play video games alone and with the other guys. Felix helps him pick out a Christmas present for Ivan, the Russian with a "close" relationship to his cat.
I mean... YOU'RE TOTALLY TOGETHER, DIMWITS!!!!!!!!!!!
We only get Nathan's perspective and his cluelessness is both trying and entertaining. He keeps trying to convince himself they can be friends and that the lucky sex Felix offers will simply help him get over Felix.
Maybe he can fuck the crush out.
Has that ever worked out for anyone ever? Show of hands?
Eventually they are forced by the team to use their words which was hilarious. Harding really knows how to write team dynamics which is my favorite part of a sports themed book. Ivan with his broken English and his cat were weird and cute. And I have a suspicion that Renner might be bi, so I'm wondering if this will turn into a series. I would not be mad about that.
I'm impressed with the range of this author. Even though everything I've read by her has been contemporary each of her characters have been unique and each plot varied. That's laudable.
I'd recommend to readers and appreciate stupid boys being stupid. And cute. Or hockey fans.
As a side note, I don't normally talk about covers but this cover is...not good. I'm not sure who those guys are but they are not Nathan and Felix.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2016
M/M hockey romance, hip-hip-hurray! Gotta love 'em, even if there are a few flaws here and there. Unfortunately with Hat Trick, 90% of the book was a flaw because of a personal pet-peeve. Communication breakdown. As in miscommunication and NO communication.
Hockey player Nathan meets Felix and they have a wicked-hot one night stand. Since Nathan was playing in an away game, he never expected to see Felix again. 18 months later, Felix becomes the new hockey team's physical therapist. Whoops! What does Nathan do now, since he walked out of Felix's hotel room in the middle of the night without saying goodbye?
The book is told entirely from Nathan's POV and he constantly assumes what Felix is thinking. Against Nathan's better judgement, he start a friends-with-benefits arrangement with Felix. Nathan is head-over-heels for Felix but assumes Felix is just in it for the sex. *sigh* And it goes on and on and on from there until about 90%.
Here, I'll let Felix explain:
Here, I'll let Nathan's teammate Renner explain:
If you are on-board with the Three's Company miscommunication thing, this is your book. If you are a hockey fanatic, there is a lot of hockey here and you may enjoy it for that alone. But if only being able to hear one internal monologue, who is 100% clueless, drives you nuts, this book is not for you. Even with hockey as the backdrop. *sad trombone*
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Galley copy of Hat Trick provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
Hockey player Nathan meets Felix and they have a wicked-hot one night stand. Since Nathan was playing in an away game, he never expected to see Felix again. 18 months later, Felix becomes the new hockey team's physical therapist. Whoops! What does Nathan do now, since he walked out of Felix's hotel room in the middle of the night without saying goodbye?
The book is told entirely from Nathan's POV and he constantly assumes what Felix is thinking. Against Nathan's better judgement, he start a friends-with-benefits arrangement with Felix. Nathan is head-over-heels for Felix but assumes Felix is just in it for the sex. *sigh* And it goes on and on and on from there until about 90%.
Here, I'll let Felix explain:
“Let me get this out. I think we’ve had some serious miscommunication (emphasis mine) going on here. So. Just” —he heaves a loud sigh, repeats himself— “let me get this out. I like you. I’d like to date you. All the messing around? I figured I’d get what I could if you didn’t want the rest. And, you know, maybe you’d want more eventually. When you said you were going on that date, I thought you were pretty clearly telling me that I meant fuck all. So. I’m not over you. Never have been. Thought that was obvious.”
Here, I'll let Nathan's teammate Renner explain:
"We think the two of you need to work out your bullshit. You’re not getting out of that room until you fix things. We’d like you to try doing this thing called talking and this other thing called listening."
If you are on-board with the Three's Company miscommunication thing, this is your book. If you are a hockey fanatic, there is a lot of hockey here and you may enjoy it for that alone. But if only being able to hear one internal monologue, who is 100% clueless, drives you nuts, this book is not for you. Even with hockey as the backdrop. *sad trombone*
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Galley copy of Hat Trick provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
November 29, 2016
A Hearts On Fire Review
3.75 HEARTS-- I think to be able to enjoy Hat Trick by Meg Harding, you need to know this quote:
This was deemed by one of the main characters. And I support that hard.
Because they were.
I'll cut to the chase this way we won't waste each other's time, this novella relies on heavy miscommunication.
Sometimes it's awkward (okay a lot of the time).
Sometimes it's cringe-worthy (I found myself doing this a lot).
Sometimes it will drive you to want to strangle a character (only like once or four times)
But the main characters are stupid. Refer to the quote if you read the story and find yourself gritting your teeth.
Nathan meets Felix after a hockey game and they hook up. See, Nathan is gay, out to his teammates and closet family & friends, not out to the public. The twenty-four year old team captain tries to keep his hookups away from the public eye when possible. He does a classic hit it and quit it. But...there's something about the guy that makes him not want to vamoose. And he carries his feelings for nearly two years because he can't do a relationship with feelings. He can't forget Felix no matter how hard he tried. So imagine his surprise when the team has a new trainer added to the roster.
Does Nathan embrace Felix with open arms and declares he wants to ride him off into the sunset? Nope.
He word mangles and flusters and just tries to act nonchalant while inside he's horny and nervcited.
See, I get Nathan. I felt like Nathan was my spirit animal at times. Nathan can be oblivious to just about everything else and focused on the one constant in his life: hockey. So he might be "stupid", but his body knows what the deal is. If only he could get out of his head.
I think he might possible frustrate readers who prefer instant gratification and heroes who can communicate well.
An injury forces Nathan into Felix's hands (nonsexually). He has to pretend to be cool with being a friend to Felix, watch him interact with a boyfriend while slowly dying on the inside. Being friend-zoned sucks. And Felix keeps it professional...though he can read Nathan's thoughts off of his gestures and silences. Probably due the constant interactions to help Nathan heal from his injury. To Nathan, Felix is taken and doesn't hint to wanting to resume anything.
And thus begins a volley of not talking to each other because they just don't communicate well. And this goes on for weeks. But the tension is there. And teammates are picking up on it.
Now with sports, I could care less. ;D
Don't worry hockey fans, I spread my non-care to just about all sports equally. (I do like ice skating come Olympic time) But there is something about hockey romances that I like to read. Couldn't tell you if the story is accurate in hockey jargon, as I feel accomplished knowing there are discs referred to as pucks that go in a net and grown men aggressively slap sticks on dry ice and beat each other up. Lose teeth for this itty bitty puck to be slapped in a net? *smh*
This is my second hockey team written by Meg Harding that I've read. I like the camaraderie and brotherhood among the teammates. It read like a frat house a lot of them times but they mean well with their meddling. Nathan is also really close with his mom and shares just about EVERYTHING and it's cute.
There ends up being a no penetration rule when it seems the men finally get their crap together (hooray for blowjobs and intercrural sex!) which is supposed to help Nathan do away with his feelings.
*blinks*
Because that helps, having sex to get rid of your pining for the person.
Granted the moments between the friends are hot (*coughs*in a car too) but it's the little moments, the unsaid moments that really lent to Nathan's character. He can be a little naive, he doesn't read the hints. Felix doesn't help either by sending mixed messages.
Yet, I couldn't read this fast enough. The writing was decent. I think the author had a good handle of her main characters, though I wish we got to learn a little more about Felix's background. The story is told from Nathan's POV.
Through the frustrations, I enjoyed them.
The heart want what it wants.
Recommended for all? Hell no! You saw my quote and warning about miscommunication? You'll need to have a high tolerance for a lot of beating around the bush. And don't mind some helpful friend meddling.
There was something affable about Hat Trick (which is a totally new term to me).
Check me out. I'm all hockey termed.
Hat Trick is not a re-read for me. (I think the author's other hockey themed story "To Arizona" is stronger) The cover also doesn't match the characters. That guy who is supposed to look like Felix looks like Scott Stapp which makes me think of Creed instead of the Johnny Depp lookalike. No one needs to have "Arms Wide Open" stuck in their bran anymore. And Nathan is supposed to be a curly headed blonde which doesn't look like the other guy either.
It ends with a HEA, though I was nervous there wasn't going to be one once or twice.
I liked them and the story.
3.75 HEARTS-- I think to be able to enjoy Hat Trick by Meg Harding, you need to know this quote:
"I think we're both extraordinarily stupid."
This was deemed by one of the main characters. And I support that hard.
Because they were.
I'll cut to the chase this way we won't waste each other's time, this novella relies on heavy miscommunication.
Sometimes it's awkward (okay a lot of the time).
Sometimes it's cringe-worthy (I found myself doing this a lot).
Sometimes it will drive you to want to strangle a character (only like once or four times)
But the main characters are stupid. Refer to the quote if you read the story and find yourself gritting your teeth.
Nathan meets Felix after a hockey game and they hook up. See, Nathan is gay, out to his teammates and closet family & friends, not out to the public. The twenty-four year old team captain tries to keep his hookups away from the public eye when possible. He does a classic hit it and quit it. But...there's something about the guy that makes him not want to vamoose. And he carries his feelings for nearly two years because he can't do a relationship with feelings. He can't forget Felix no matter how hard he tried. So imagine his surprise when the team has a new trainer added to the roster.
Does Nathan embrace Felix with open arms and declares he wants to ride him off into the sunset? Nope.
He word mangles and flusters and just tries to act nonchalant while inside he's horny and nervcited.
See, I get Nathan. I felt like Nathan was my spirit animal at times. Nathan can be oblivious to just about everything else and focused on the one constant in his life: hockey. So he might be "stupid", but his body knows what the deal is. If only he could get out of his head.
I think he might possible frustrate readers who prefer instant gratification and heroes who can communicate well.
An injury forces Nathan into Felix's hands (nonsexually). He has to pretend to be cool with being a friend to Felix, watch him interact with a boyfriend while slowly dying on the inside. Being friend-zoned sucks. And Felix keeps it professional...though he can read Nathan's thoughts off of his gestures and silences. Probably due the constant interactions to help Nathan heal from his injury. To Nathan, Felix is taken and doesn't hint to wanting to resume anything.
And thus begins a volley of not talking to each other because they just don't communicate well. And this goes on for weeks. But the tension is there. And teammates are picking up on it.
Now with sports, I could care less. ;D
Don't worry hockey fans, I spread my non-care to just about all sports equally. (I do like ice skating come Olympic time) But there is something about hockey romances that I like to read. Couldn't tell you if the story is accurate in hockey jargon, as I feel accomplished knowing there are discs referred to as pucks that go in a net and grown men aggressively slap sticks on dry ice and beat each other up. Lose teeth for this itty bitty puck to be slapped in a net? *smh*
This is my second hockey team written by Meg Harding that I've read. I like the camaraderie and brotherhood among the teammates. It read like a frat house a lot of them times but they mean well with their meddling. Nathan is also really close with his mom and shares just about EVERYTHING and it's cute.
There ends up being a no penetration rule when it seems the men finally get their crap together (hooray for blowjobs and intercrural sex!) which is supposed to help Nathan do away with his feelings.
*blinks*
Because that helps, having sex to get rid of your pining for the person.
Granted the moments between the friends are hot (*coughs*in a car too) but it's the little moments, the unsaid moments that really lent to Nathan's character. He can be a little naive, he doesn't read the hints. Felix doesn't help either by sending mixed messages.
Yet, I couldn't read this fast enough. The writing was decent. I think the author had a good handle of her main characters, though I wish we got to learn a little more about Felix's background. The story is told from Nathan's POV.
Through the frustrations, I enjoyed them.
The heart want what it wants.
Recommended for all? Hell no! You saw my quote and warning about miscommunication? You'll need to have a high tolerance for a lot of beating around the bush. And don't mind some helpful friend meddling.
There was something affable about Hat Trick (which is a totally new term to me).
Check me out. I'm all hockey termed.
Hat Trick is not a re-read for me. (I think the author's other hockey themed story "To Arizona" is stronger) The cover also doesn't match the characters. That guy who is supposed to look like Felix looks like Scott Stapp which makes me think of Creed instead of the Johnny Depp lookalike. No one needs to have "Arms Wide Open" stuck in their bran anymore. And Nathan is supposed to be a curly headed blonde which doesn't look like the other guy either.
It ends with a HEA, though I was nervous there wasn't going to be one once or twice.
I liked them and the story.
May 13, 2016
2.5 Stars
If you are a fan of M/M hockey romances with steamy encounters and don't mind miscommunication as a plot device then you may just want to check this out.
After winning an away game, Winnipeg Wolves hockey team Captain Nathan Barre meets a gorgeous man named Felix in a bar and they end up having a smoking hot one night stand. Because Nathan isn't out to the public (but he is to his teammates), and uncomfortable in a city not his own, he slinks out before morning never expecting to see Felix again.
Nineteen months later and Nathan still hasn't gotten Felix or the night of mind-blowing-best-sex-of-his-life off his mind. When Nathan is injured in a pre-season game and steered towards the trainer's room he never expects to find Felix. Over the next few months the two men spend time with one another on Nathan's rehab and they get to know one another, getting together for lunches, work outs and hanging out with the team. The attraction is always there for Nathan, and when Felix suggests they have sex again Nathan goes for it, against his better judgement, knowing he really wants more.
Told entirely from Nathan's POV the reader gets to see Nathan fall more and more in love with Felix, and also become more and more upset when he believes Felix doesn't return his feelings.
This story is filled with your typical kind of "guy" miscommunication where both men obviously have feelings for one another but neither believes the other really cares, even though they're sleeping with each other every chance they get because they can't keep their hands off each other, and they go to lunch all time, and they spend most of their free time together. But - oh, no, that only means that they're friends with benefits.
This back and forth doesn't resolve itself until the story is 92% finished.
And then only because one of their friends literally locks them in a room together to talk things out...and when that doesn't work he comes and lays down the truth.
Strangely, this time the miscommunication didn't make me want to kill someone. Sure it was annoying, but the writing style had me so discombobulated that I didn't really focus on it, to be honest. The writing is filled with short sentence bursts and had such an odd (to me) cadence of storytelling that I actually didn't pay that much attention to the miscommunication happening.
Now, that aside, there were a couple of things I loved about the story - the super hot sexy scenes and the side characters, especially Renner. I would LOVE to read another story featuring Renner as the MC!
If you can handle miscommunication and like hot, sexy times, friendly banter and hockey you should check it out for yourself.
Galley copy of Hat Trick provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
If you are a fan of M/M hockey romances with steamy encounters and don't mind miscommunication as a plot device then you may just want to check this out.
After winning an away game, Winnipeg Wolves hockey team Captain Nathan Barre meets a gorgeous man named Felix in a bar and they end up having a smoking hot one night stand. Because Nathan isn't out to the public (but he is to his teammates), and uncomfortable in a city not his own, he slinks out before morning never expecting to see Felix again.
Nineteen months later and Nathan still hasn't gotten Felix or the night of mind-blowing-best-sex-of-his-life off his mind. When Nathan is injured in a pre-season game and steered towards the trainer's room he never expects to find Felix. Over the next few months the two men spend time with one another on Nathan's rehab and they get to know one another, getting together for lunches, work outs and hanging out with the team. The attraction is always there for Nathan, and when Felix suggests they have sex again Nathan goes for it, against his better judgement, knowing he really wants more.
Told entirely from Nathan's POV the reader gets to see Nathan fall more and more in love with Felix, and also become more and more upset when he believes Felix doesn't return his feelings.
This story is filled with your typical kind of "guy" miscommunication where both men obviously have feelings for one another but neither believes the other really cares, even though they're sleeping with each other every chance they get because they can't keep their hands off each other, and they go to lunch all time, and they spend most of their free time together. But - oh, no, that only means that they're friends with benefits.
This back and forth doesn't resolve itself until the story is 92% finished.
And then only because one of their friends literally locks them in a room together to talk things out...and when that doesn't work he comes and lays down the truth.
"We also know that you’re totally in love with each other. It’s occurred to us that maybe you don’t know that. So, hey, we’re making you aware. Nathan, you’re madly in love with Felix. Felix, you’re madly in love with Nathan. The two of you are big, jealous babies who have way complicated a simple situation...Now that you have this information, maybe you two could discuss it and figure out where the hell you wrongly crossed the wires."
Strangely, this time the miscommunication didn't make me want to kill someone. Sure it was annoying, but the writing style had me so discombobulated that I didn't really focus on it, to be honest. The writing is filled with short sentence bursts and had such an odd (to me) cadence of storytelling that I actually didn't pay that much attention to the miscommunication happening.
Now, that aside, there were a couple of things I loved about the story - the super hot sexy scenes and the side characters, especially Renner. I would LOVE to read another story featuring Renner as the MC!
If you can handle miscommunication and like hot, sexy times, friendly banter and hockey you should check it out for yourself.
Galley copy of Hat Trick provided by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 18, 2019
Meg(or Meagan) Harding is one of those authors that quietly sneaks under the radar. I had been on the lookout for her, and I was so excited when I saw she was releasing a sports romance novel. Not only am I sucker for Sports Romance- BUT it's about a HOCKEY player! Under Review ended up (for the most part) meeting my expectations. I was in the mood for a smooth, low angst story to get lost in to.
Highlights:
-Loved the main characters, both were men you'd like to be friends with.
-Friends with benefits. What started as a one night stand slowly progressed to more. I appreciate that the relationship wasn't rushed; it had a natural progression.
-Great set of secondary characters.
And for most of the way it was a solid 4-4.5 read, as I said this book was exactly what I was the mood for, but then- the dreaded miscommunication took place. I could've looked past the misunderstanding IF it'd been resolved quickly but then more miscommunication compiled on top miscommunication. Lack of communication drives me batty, I'm sorry. I just wanted to scream: TALK TO EACH OTHER!! Lol
Overall, I enjoyed Under Review.
-Feel good
-Great chemistry
-Loved all the characters
-Easy pace
-Happy ending
I hope this turns into a series, and I'll continue to be on the watch for more Meg Harding books.
3.75 Stars
Highlights:
-Loved the main characters, both were men you'd like to be friends with.
-Friends with benefits. What started as a one night stand slowly progressed to more. I appreciate that the relationship wasn't rushed; it had a natural progression.
-Great set of secondary characters.
And for most of the way it was a solid 4-4.5 read, as I said this book was exactly what I was the mood for, but then- the dreaded miscommunication took place. I could've looked past the misunderstanding IF it'd been resolved quickly but then more miscommunication compiled on top miscommunication. Lack of communication drives me batty, I'm sorry. I just wanted to scream: TALK TO EACH OTHER!! Lol
Overall, I enjoyed Under Review.
-Feel good
-Great chemistry
-Loved all the characters
-Easy pace
-Happy ending
I hope this turns into a series, and I'll continue to be on the watch for more Meg Harding books.
3.75 Stars
October 16, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
I came away from this one with mixed feelings, largely due to the whole plot revolving around the big miscommunication. This plot device so very rarely works for me, and this book was no exception. I spent at least half the book just mentally demanding the two MCs talk to each other, because every one of their problems could be solved with a quick discussion.
I liked the MCs and the secondary characters, a lot. Harding does a great job showcasing all the characters. Though this book is told from Nathan’s third person POV and we get to know him best, we also get a good idea who Felix is as well. I would have liked to see a bit more of Felix’s thoughts and feelings, but considering the narrative style, I was fine with the way things were portrayed. And the cast of secondary characters really rounds everything out. This is a good group of guys, with quirks and flaws, and it really did a lot to enhance my enjoyment of the book.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4 stars
I came away from this one with mixed feelings, largely due to the whole plot revolving around the big miscommunication. This plot device so very rarely works for me, and this book was no exception. I spent at least half the book just mentally demanding the two MCs talk to each other, because every one of their problems could be solved with a quick discussion.
I liked the MCs and the secondary characters, a lot. Harding does a great job showcasing all the characters. Though this book is told from Nathan’s third person POV and we get to know him best, we also get a good idea who Felix is as well. I would have liked to see a bit more of Felix’s thoughts and feelings, but considering the narrative style, I was fine with the way things were portrayed. And the cast of secondary characters really rounds everything out. This is a good group of guys, with quirks and flaws, and it really did a lot to enhance my enjoyment of the book.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
July 12, 2016
Reading this was as fun as taking a high stick to the face.
This book and I got off to a bad start. Before the actual story even started. There is an author's note at the beginning about hockey players and the author has this to say "There's something about these men-men who give everything to the sport and seldom seem to know what to do with the rest of their lives." Seldom? Really?? That seems like an awfully big generalization about a huge group of people. Sure there are players who have major problems (as with the rest of society) but there are also tons of players who not only play, but have successful family lives and give back to the rest of society. My favorite team alone has a guy who volunteers at the children's hospital, a guy & his wife who help run an animal shelter, a guy who has a non-profit that organizes professional athletes for charity events & my team itself has their own charitable foundation that does everything from help kids with cancer to running hockey classes for blind kids. They support the You Can Play Project. I could go on and on about this because this bs stereotype seriously peeves me.
*sigh* Ok......rant over.
I headed into the book annoyed but still hopeful cuz.....hockey. My hopes were immediately throw into the boards. The MC Nathan, who tells the story, is supposed to the be the team captain but he is immature and has horrible communication skills so I'm not sure how the captain thing works out for him. (If you don't know, the captain's job is not only to motivate his teammates but they are responsible for all communication between the team and the refs and most do public speaking etc for the team off the ice). All of the players act juvenile and they make stupid, little boy type jokes, smack each other on the butt, pop each other with towels etc. It's one big, giant stereotype (which is not a surprise cuz.....author's note) and I found it ridiculous. (They actually do nothing throughout the book but play hockey and video games and make stupid jokes). There are also the Russian stereotypical players who speak badly broken English and sound like they're on an episode of Rocky & Bullwinkle.
The writing style was super odd. It was a bunch of short bursts and I found the cadence really jarring. It reminded me of those old Dick & Jane primers I learned to read on. Nathan plays hockey. See Nathan play. Play Nathan play.
The plot itself is about Nathan having a one night stand on the road and then running into that guy about a year and a half later as a team trainer. They then proceed to have lot's of sex while never having a serious conversation. The entire plot is based on poor communication and assumptions. It's one of those stories where nothing that happened needed to happen. One simple conversation of "Where do you see this going?" would have made the entire book null and void. Their lack of communication was so extreme that at one point I could barely understand what was going on. It literally made no sense to me. (My status update at the 77% mark said "I literally don't know what's going on. Whatever the F it is makes the MC keep biting his bottom lip (and cry).
I, Maybe, (probably not) could've rolled with this, despite my strong dislike of the miscommunication trope, but again the writing style was so odd to me it kept throwing me out of the story which just frustrated me.
There was a lot of hockey terms thrown in and some scenes on the ice but they didn't come across smoothly. I didn't notice anything technically wrong with them but they seemed forced. More like "Hey I'm going to show I know about hockey" than actually needed plot points.
My last complaint is kind of ridiculous. But nevertheless........All the team names in the book are made up and most of them are just silly and kind of cheesy. And in this, Los Angeles are the LA Bucks. In real life LA's biggest rivals are the Ducks. See what the author did there? Hilarious. (NOT.) I know, I know......I'm being a pissy LA fan but I was already over this book by the time I got there and it just annoyed the ever living crap out of me. I'm not annoyed because I'm offended for my team (well maybe a little), but more at the fact that this is the level of.....I don't know... humor? wit? that this book was full of. Just groan worthy imo.
So.....an odd writing style, lot's of stereotypes and an excessive miscommunication trope add up to a giant fail for me.
This book and I got off to a bad start. Before the actual story even started. There is an author's note at the beginning about hockey players and the author has this to say "There's something about these men-men who give everything to the sport and seldom seem to know what to do with the rest of their lives." Seldom? Really?? That seems like an awfully big generalization about a huge group of people. Sure there are players who have major problems (as with the rest of society) but there are also tons of players who not only play, but have successful family lives and give back to the rest of society. My favorite team alone has a guy who volunteers at the children's hospital, a guy & his wife who help run an animal shelter, a guy who has a non-profit that organizes professional athletes for charity events & my team itself has their own charitable foundation that does everything from help kids with cancer to running hockey classes for blind kids. They support the You Can Play Project. I could go on and on about this because this bs stereotype seriously peeves me.
*sigh* Ok......rant over.
I headed into the book annoyed but still hopeful cuz.....hockey. My hopes were immediately throw into the boards. The MC Nathan, who tells the story, is supposed to the be the team captain but he is immature and has horrible communication skills so I'm not sure how the captain thing works out for him. (If you don't know, the captain's job is not only to motivate his teammates but they are responsible for all communication between the team and the refs and most do public speaking etc for the team off the ice). All of the players act juvenile and they make stupid, little boy type jokes, smack each other on the butt, pop each other with towels etc. It's one big, giant stereotype (which is not a surprise cuz.....author's note) and I found it ridiculous. (They actually do nothing throughout the book but play hockey and video games and make stupid jokes). There are also the Russian stereotypical players who speak badly broken English and sound like they're on an episode of Rocky & Bullwinkle.
The writing style was super odd. It was a bunch of short bursts and I found the cadence really jarring. It reminded me of those old Dick & Jane primers I learned to read on. Nathan plays hockey. See Nathan play. Play Nathan play.
The plot itself is about Nathan having a one night stand on the road and then running into that guy about a year and a half later as a team trainer. They then proceed to have lot's of sex while never having a serious conversation. The entire plot is based on poor communication and assumptions. It's one of those stories where nothing that happened needed to happen. One simple conversation of "Where do you see this going?" would have made the entire book null and void. Their lack of communication was so extreme that at one point I could barely understand what was going on. It literally made no sense to me. (My status update at the 77% mark said "I literally don't know what's going on. Whatever the F it is makes the MC keep biting his bottom lip (and cry).
I, Maybe, (probably not) could've rolled with this, despite my strong dislike of the miscommunication trope, but again the writing style was so odd to me it kept throwing me out of the story which just frustrated me.
There was a lot of hockey terms thrown in and some scenes on the ice but they didn't come across smoothly. I didn't notice anything technically wrong with them but they seemed forced. More like "Hey I'm going to show I know about hockey" than actually needed plot points.
My last complaint is kind of ridiculous. But nevertheless........All the team names in the book are made up and most of them are just silly and kind of cheesy. And in this, Los Angeles are the LA Bucks. In real life LA's biggest rivals are the Ducks. See what the author did there? Hilarious. (NOT.) I know, I know......I'm being a pissy LA fan but I was already over this book by the time I got there and it just annoyed the ever living crap out of me. I'm not annoyed because I'm offended for my team (well maybe a little), but more at the fact that this is the level of.....I don't know... humor? wit? that this book was full of. Just groan worthy imo.
So.....an odd writing style, lot's of stereotypes and an excessive miscommunication trope add up to a giant fail for me.
May 20, 2016
2.5 stars
I liked the hockey team; heck, I liked the hockey team friends better than the main character: Renner, Ivan, Thor, Sasha ... they were all precious!! Nathan felt immature and whiny, and I couldn't believe that he was the captain. Basically the issue with his relationship with Felix was that both men didn't communicate and made their own assumptions about stuffs. PHOEY.
On top of that, the various sex scenes were not appealing. AND I felt that this time (I've read her other books before), Harding's writing seemed off. The time jump was distracting, the ending rushed ... Well, maybe it was just me but I felt lack of chemistry with her writing in this one. Didn't feel like her previous books, that's all.
Considering I recently finished another hockey book (Power Play) this one was way below par compared to that one.
I liked the hockey team; heck, I liked the hockey team friends better than the main character: Renner, Ivan, Thor, Sasha ... they were all precious!! Nathan felt immature and whiny, and I couldn't believe that he was the captain. Basically the issue with his relationship with Felix was that both men didn't communicate and made their own assumptions about stuffs. PHOEY.
On top of that, the various sex scenes were not appealing. AND I felt that this time (I've read her other books before), Harding's writing seemed off. The time jump was distracting, the ending rushed ... Well, maybe it was just me but I felt lack of chemistry with her writing in this one. Didn't feel like her previous books, that's all.
Considering I recently finished another hockey book (Power Play) this one was way below par compared to that one.
October 18, 2019
Hockey!
I love hockey romances! And have been searching high and low for a good one. This wasn’t bad. I like the writing style. The drama was pretty low key. More of a miscommunication than anything exciting. I should be happy about that but I do love some dramatics with my hockey so it did leave me a little disappointed. But all in all, a pretty decent hockey romance 😉
I love hockey romances! And have been searching high and low for a good one. This wasn’t bad. I like the writing style. The drama was pretty low key. More of a miscommunication than anything exciting. I should be happy about that but I do love some dramatics with my hockey so it did leave me a little disappointed. But all in all, a pretty decent hockey romance 😉
July 17, 2022
Kindle-Sort-ReRead
I actually enjoyed this, not sure when I acquired it but not meshed with others by this author so expectations were low.
Did get a fanfic vibe - it's my only knowledge of hockey and Crosby tends to be portrayed this way.
The concept is ridiculous, stupid miscommunication plot. I skimmed the sex scenes, if messy is your thing you're on a winner.
But the characters are likeable despite their stupid, the team are fun. It's easy reading and kept me amused through insomnia. Doesn't appear to be part of a series or I'd give another a go.
I actually enjoyed this, not sure when I acquired it but not meshed with others by this author so expectations were low.
Did get a fanfic vibe - it's my only knowledge of hockey and Crosby tends to be portrayed this way.
The concept is ridiculous, stupid miscommunication plot. I skimmed the sex scenes, if messy is your thing you're on a winner.
But the characters are likeable despite their stupid, the team are fun. It's easy reading and kept me amused through insomnia. Doesn't appear to be part of a series or I'd give another a go.
May 18, 2016
Very little hockey...or communication. Still, it kept me interested and invested in Nathan and Felix.
September 27, 2019
Basically two stupid boys who don't know the word "communication" 😝. But I LOVE the friends, the other hockey players. They are awesome.
June 24, 2016
I thought this was quite funny and pure Meg Harding. I loved the MC's and the supporting characters, and I thought Nate's cluelessness was hilarious!
This is a fun, quick read, yes there is mis-communication, but it really worked for this book!!!
This is a fun, quick read, yes there is mis-communication, but it really worked for this book!!!
October 6, 2019
Wow. Talk about not communicating - this book had it, in spades.
May 24, 2016
Nathan Barres ist ein erfolgreicher Eishockeyspieler und tut alles um seine Karriere voranzutreiben. Dazu gehört auch seine Sexualität nicht zu thematisieren. Seine Mitspieler wissen zwar, dass er schwul ist, den Rest der Welt geht es aber nichts an. Nach einem Auswärtsspiel, lernt er an einer Bar den charismatischen Felix kennen und landet mit ihm im Bett. Doch es ist ein One Night Stand und am nächsten Morgen verschwindet Nathan ohne sich zu verabschieden.
Fast zwei Jahre später gibt es dann jedoch ein Wiedersehen und Nathan ist wie im Schock, als sich Felix als neuer Physiotherapeut des Teams herausstellt. Doch da muss Nathan durch und er kommt mit Felix überein, dass eine Freundschaft möglich ist. Irgendwie. Doch sehr schnell stellt sich heraus, dass es doch nicht so einfach ist die gegenseitige Anziehung zu ignorieren. Denn diese flammt sehr schnell wieder zwischen Spieler und Therapeut auf.
Felix und Nathan begeben sich auf dünnes Eis und müssen rasch feststellen, dass es mehr sein könnte. Doch sie treffen nicht immer gute Entscheidungen und ihre Kommunikation ist denkbar schlecht. Vor allem Nathan bekommt sehr lange Zeit nicht die Kurve und viele seiner Entscheidungen erweisen sich als Boomerang, mit dem er sich nur selbst wieder verletzt.
Der Plot der Geschichte ist wirklich gut durchdacht und die Autorin hat es geschafft eine wirklich amüsante und unterhaltsame Geschichte zu schreiben. Vor allem die Nebenakteure - Nathans Teamkollegen - sind großartig und verleihen der Geschichte wirklich viel Leben. Sie ahnen auch mehr, als Nathan und Felix eigentlich wahrhaben wollen. Und obwol Felix gar nicht vom Fach ist - er war früher bei einem Fußball-Team - wird er von den Eishockey Spielern schnell ins Team integriert und kann Freundschaften schliessen.
Negativ an dem Buch ist die fehlende Tiefe und Beschreibung der Hauptakteure. Über ihre Vergangenheit erfährt man fast gar nichts. Das ist dann wohl auch der Grund, wieso man verschiedene Handlungen von Nathan und Felix nicht wirklich versteht. Das ist sehr schade und trübt den Lesespass doch etwas. Dennoch war es eine nette Geschichte für Zwischendurch, die durchaus empfehlenswert ist.
Fast zwei Jahre später gibt es dann jedoch ein Wiedersehen und Nathan ist wie im Schock, als sich Felix als neuer Physiotherapeut des Teams herausstellt. Doch da muss Nathan durch und er kommt mit Felix überein, dass eine Freundschaft möglich ist. Irgendwie. Doch sehr schnell stellt sich heraus, dass es doch nicht so einfach ist die gegenseitige Anziehung zu ignorieren. Denn diese flammt sehr schnell wieder zwischen Spieler und Therapeut auf.
Felix und Nathan begeben sich auf dünnes Eis und müssen rasch feststellen, dass es mehr sein könnte. Doch sie treffen nicht immer gute Entscheidungen und ihre Kommunikation ist denkbar schlecht. Vor allem Nathan bekommt sehr lange Zeit nicht die Kurve und viele seiner Entscheidungen erweisen sich als Boomerang, mit dem er sich nur selbst wieder verletzt.
Der Plot der Geschichte ist wirklich gut durchdacht und die Autorin hat es geschafft eine wirklich amüsante und unterhaltsame Geschichte zu schreiben. Vor allem die Nebenakteure - Nathans Teamkollegen - sind großartig und verleihen der Geschichte wirklich viel Leben. Sie ahnen auch mehr, als Nathan und Felix eigentlich wahrhaben wollen. Und obwol Felix gar nicht vom Fach ist - er war früher bei einem Fußball-Team - wird er von den Eishockey Spielern schnell ins Team integriert und kann Freundschaften schliessen.
Negativ an dem Buch ist die fehlende Tiefe und Beschreibung der Hauptakteure. Über ihre Vergangenheit erfährt man fast gar nichts. Das ist dann wohl auch der Grund, wieso man verschiedene Handlungen von Nathan und Felix nicht wirklich versteht. Das ist sehr schade und trübt den Lesespass doch etwas. Dennoch war es eine nette Geschichte für Zwischendurch, die durchaus empfehlenswert ist.
September 9, 2020
Original review: https://myshelfbooks.wordpress.com/20...
Contemporary Romance: As a Romance novel this story is pretty lackluster. It starts with the main couple hooking up in the first chapter. The next one takes place almost two years later and the reader is given exactly zero clues about the dynamic between the characters during that period. It is up to us to discover that they had no contact at all. Their relationship turns weird pretty quickly and it is not enjoyable to read the development of it. The drama feels artificial and it is resolved in a very unremarkable way.
Love?: I do not trust the foundations of this couple. Nathan is a decent character with a good heart, but with the emotional intelligence of a potato. He is inexperienced and it is pretty obvious that some guidance is needed. Is Felix the right guy for that walkthrough through the windy roads of love? I don’t think so. More than once I had the feeling Felix was using Nathan for a quick hormonal release. The way the author tries to spin it at the end is pretty unbelievable. So, nope. I don’t foresee a long relationship for these guys.
Sports: My knowledge of hockey is as follows: ice, skates, sticks and circular thingy for goals. And if I have to trust the Romance genre (which I do wholeheartedly), the teams are composed by ridiculously hot guys. I say this because in this book we are showered by many hockey terms and zero explanations. Why is Nathan doing tricks with a hat? Also, they should talk to Pandora about that bin for sins. It seems much more efficient that her box. And why in the Hell are fights allowed in that sport? It is a bit un-Canadian for a Canadian sport. Not that I know any Canadians…
Contemporary Romance: As a Romance novel this story is pretty lackluster. It starts with the main couple hooking up in the first chapter. The next one takes place almost two years later and the reader is given exactly zero clues about the dynamic between the characters during that period. It is up to us to discover that they had no contact at all. Their relationship turns weird pretty quickly and it is not enjoyable to read the development of it. The drama feels artificial and it is resolved in a very unremarkable way.
Love?: I do not trust the foundations of this couple. Nathan is a decent character with a good heart, but with the emotional intelligence of a potato. He is inexperienced and it is pretty obvious that some guidance is needed. Is Felix the right guy for that walkthrough through the windy roads of love? I don’t think so. More than once I had the feeling Felix was using Nathan for a quick hormonal release. The way the author tries to spin it at the end is pretty unbelievable. So, nope. I don’t foresee a long relationship for these guys.
Sports: My knowledge of hockey is as follows: ice, skates, sticks and circular thingy for goals. And if I have to trust the Romance genre (which I do wholeheartedly), the teams are composed by ridiculously hot guys. I say this because in this book we are showered by many hockey terms and zero explanations. Why is Nathan doing tricks with a hat? Also, they should talk to Pandora about that bin for sins. It seems much more efficient that her box. And why in the Hell are fights allowed in that sport? It is a bit un-Canadian for a Canadian sport. Not that I know any Canadians…
September 20, 2019
I love hockey stories, so I grabbed this one up as soon as I saw it. I was not disappointed. It is the start of the season when this story begins, so we get plenty of hockey action, but not too much as to overwhelm the story. Hockey Captain, Nathan, hooks up with one-night stand, Felix, only to find that Felix has taken the job as physical therapist for the team. They hook up again which then becomes a thing and the outspread of miscommunication takes form.
Nathan is not out publicly, though his team all knows and is supportive. It is easy to see why Felix would back off emotionally from that. However, Nathan is a little dense at times where Felix is concerned, and while the continue to have explosive sex, each try to keep feelings out of it for just about the same reasons, and it is only a matter of time before the collision course they've set off on comes to a head. There is jealousy, but they both do their best to not act jealous, which backfires, of course. And much of the story is more of the same.
Thank goodness for Nathan's amazing teammates who finally organize an intervention between the two. I especially loved Renner who was supportive but didn't want to overstep until he didn't feel like he had a choice. His mom is also pretty awesome. I am a little disappointed this isn't the start to a series, as I would love to see more of these guys in an actual relationship, or more of the other guys, but it ended on a satisfying note. I will definitely be on the lookout for more from Ms. Harding in the future.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
September 22, 2019
3-3.5 stars
I’m a sucker for sports romances, especially hockey, so I couldn’t pass up the chance to try Under Review by new-to-me author out. For the most part I really enjoyed the story and characters and will certainly look into more of Miss Harding’s works in the future.
The characters in Under Review were readily likable and made for a sweet couple with plenty of physical chemistry. Though having a relationship expand from a one-night-stand isn’t original in the romance world, the way Felix and Nathan evolved from a hook-up to friends to a relationship felt natural rather than rushed. The dialogue throughout Under Review flowed smoothly as well, with plenty of banter between characters. I especially enjoyed the interactions with the team, their silliness and comradery gave the book a lighter feel and made for an easy read.
What tripped me up was the reliance of physical chemistry versus an emotional connection in Under Review. Although the story referenced those moments, including shared lunches and late night talks, it rarely unfolded on page. And while I’m not one to turn down sexy scenes, it ended up feeling unbalanced, with too much time between the sheets and not getting a sense of how Felix and Nathan would work as a couple. When coupled with the major plot conflict/ relationship killer of miscommunication, Under Review lost me a little and even when it resolved in an odd but cute way, I never was as invested as I was initially. Overall, I liked Under Review and thought there was a good amount of hockey included, always a plus, and will keep this author on my radar in the future.
*eARC received from the author*
I’m a sucker for sports romances, especially hockey, so I couldn’t pass up the chance to try Under Review by new-to-me author out. For the most part I really enjoyed the story and characters and will certainly look into more of Miss Harding’s works in the future.
The characters in Under Review were readily likable and made for a sweet couple with plenty of physical chemistry. Though having a relationship expand from a one-night-stand isn’t original in the romance world, the way Felix and Nathan evolved from a hook-up to friends to a relationship felt natural rather than rushed. The dialogue throughout Under Review flowed smoothly as well, with plenty of banter between characters. I especially enjoyed the interactions with the team, their silliness and comradery gave the book a lighter feel and made for an easy read.
What tripped me up was the reliance of physical chemistry versus an emotional connection in Under Review. Although the story referenced those moments, including shared lunches and late night talks, it rarely unfolded on page. And while I’m not one to turn down sexy scenes, it ended up feeling unbalanced, with too much time between the sheets and not getting a sense of how Felix and Nathan would work as a couple. When coupled with the major plot conflict/ relationship killer of miscommunication, Under Review lost me a little and even when it resolved in an odd but cute way, I never was as invested as I was initially. Overall, I liked Under Review and thought there was a good amount of hockey included, always a plus, and will keep this author on my radar in the future.
*eARC received from the author*
July 10, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I have to say that I rather enjoyed this book. There was a lot of miscommunication, but in some situations (such as the one that these men find themselves in) this does happen. I thought it was sexy and fun.
I will say that I felt the hockey aspect was skimmed over as the games were so condensed and the way they were written, I found myself rather uninterested in most of them. However, the way it brought the two men together I did like.
The way the issues were resolved, I didn't particularily like, as I felt that it was not all that realistic. Men just don't act like that (the teammates). Or at least if things had been so obvious to them, there is no doubt that the other two men would've picked up on things. The fact that they both had this light bulb moment as soon as things were pointed out, just didn't really work to me.
However, other than that, I did like the story.
I have to say that I rather enjoyed this book. There was a lot of miscommunication, but in some situations (such as the one that these men find themselves in) this does happen. I thought it was sexy and fun.
I will say that I felt the hockey aspect was skimmed over as the games were so condensed and the way they were written, I found myself rather uninterested in most of them. However, the way it brought the two men together I did like.
The way the issues were resolved, I didn't particularily like, as I felt that it was not all that realistic. Men just don't act like that (the teammates). Or at least if things had been so obvious to them, there is no doubt that the other two men would've picked up on things. The fact that they both had this light bulb moment as soon as things were pointed out, just didn't really work to me.
However, other than that, I did like the story.
July 15, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I am a big fan of Sports romances, and MM, so always enjoy a combination of the two. This one is particularly good, as it is somewhat understated and involves some really good friends sorting out two somewhat deluded men!
It is a short, sweet and low stress book, which is very enjoyable. I think there could be some more stories from the team. Hint, hint Ms Harding ...
I am a big fan of Sports romances, and MM, so always enjoy a combination of the two. This one is particularly good, as it is somewhat understated and involves some really good friends sorting out two somewhat deluded men!
It is a short, sweet and low stress book, which is very enjoyable. I think there could be some more stories from the team. Hint, hint Ms Harding ...
December 30, 2019
The drama of this book is centered on a complete lack of communication for no clear reason, which diminished my enjoyment considerably. The main characters are adults. One of them is portrayed as being so competent and mature that he's mistaken as being older than he really is, yet he's inexplicably unable to talk to the other character about their relationship or what he wants from it. The lack of explanation—believable or otherwise—is especially frustrating given the amount of angsting both characters do over wanting a serious relationship.
Were it not for this, I would have liked the book a lot more. I enjoyed the writing and the characters were fun.
Were it not for this, I would have liked the book a lot more. I enjoyed the writing and the characters were fun.
September 5, 2020
3.5 stars
It was good read, but for once in my life I wished for a double-pov. My emotional connection to Felix was null, honestly it felt like he's your typical dude and his emotional connection with Nathan wasn't that gut renching for all this drama. Like I see Nathan pinning and heart-eyed, but I don't get WHY.
Nevertheless it was a really decent typical hockey mm book.
It was good read, but for once in my life I wished for a double-pov. My emotional connection to Felix was null, honestly it felt like he's your typical dude and his emotional connection with Nathan wasn't that gut renching for all this drama. Like I see Nathan pinning and heart-eyed, but I don't get WHY.
Nevertheless it was a really decent typical hockey mm book.
May 27, 2016
3.5*
September 24, 2016
This was cute! The miscommunication was a little over the top, but it worked. Glad they worked everything out when they did though.
September 10, 2017
Hockey Love
I just love the two main characters, but the supporting cast steal the shots here! So wonderfully romantic & exciting game play too. It's a great book!
I just love the two main characters, but the supporting cast steal the shots here! So wonderfully romantic & exciting game play too. It's a great book!
June 28, 2018
Almost perfect short story
December 26, 2021
2.5/3 for most characters
This was almost good. It started well, I liked Nathan a lot because we read from his POV, so it's easy to empathize with his side of the story. But Felix? Ugh, kinda didn't like him. He knew Nathan had no experience whatsoever in dating and then he just sent signals and expected Nathan to understand them. Felix was written just like sexist people write women: as if we always say the opposite of what we mean and men have do decipher our meaning because we are all craaaaazy. This is ridiculous. It's taking miscommunication to a whole level. I didn't give 1 star because I liked Nathan's sensitivity (even though he had toxic masculinity trying to dictate his decisions of how he should behave), and I loved Ivan and Thor and his girlfriend and the wives, and even the blonde girl in the bar. But Felix disappointed me and the whole drama before the HEA was poorly written and I hate the miscommunication troupe, so it was hard for me when I read that Nathan was trying to date other people instead of talking to dumbass Felix. I really thought I was gonna like this story, but nope, only liked most characters that are not called Felix.
This was almost good. It started well, I liked Nathan a lot because we read from his POV, so it's easy to empathize with his side of the story. But Felix? Ugh, kinda didn't like him. He knew Nathan had no experience whatsoever in dating and then he just sent signals and expected Nathan to understand them. Felix was written just like sexist people write women: as if we always say the opposite of what we mean and men have do decipher our meaning because we are all craaaaazy. This is ridiculous. It's taking miscommunication to a whole level. I didn't give 1 star because I liked Nathan's sensitivity (even though he had toxic masculinity trying to dictate his decisions of how he should behave), and I loved Ivan and Thor and his girlfriend and the wives, and even the blonde girl in the bar. But Felix disappointed me and the whole drama before the HEA was poorly written and I hate the miscommunication troupe, so it was hard for me when I read that Nathan was trying to date other people instead of talking to dumbass Felix. I really thought I was gonna like this story, but nope, only liked most characters that are not called Felix.
June 29, 2020
This was one of those books where I was (internally) yelling at the MC to see what I did- that he wasn't fooling anyone and that love was right there waiting for him if he only grew a pair and was honest. Turns out, that not only was I trying to knock some sense into the MC, but his friends and teammates were right there with me. The story was cute and did (finally) get the HEA I was yearning for. I enjoyed this one quite a bit. Man, am I ever happy I discovered the big and wonderful world of M/M-ROM/HOCKEY.
June 24, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
I love books about hockey players so this one appealed to me. It starts out with a hook up one night between Nathan the hockey player and a guy that picks him up in a bar, Felix. It was the best sex they’d ever had but Nathan is still closeted so he sneaks out in the middle of the night thinking he’ll never see Felix. Then a year later Felix is hired as trainer for Nathan’s NHL team. It’s awkward but the guys decide to make the best of it. They even become friends. Given their attraction to each other it turns into more.
While I liked portions of the book ultimately the lack of communication and immaturity of Nathan ruined it for me. It was SO painfully obvious how they felt for each other and yet they not only didn’t have a clue, they push each other away. Like avoidance and grumpy temper tantrums on and off the ice. I just can not accept that grown men act this way. Avoid facing feelings yes. Go out of their way to be unhappy no. Together they were pretty sexy until Nathan continually got in his own way. He was also jealous of everyone Felix spent time with again to the point of hissy fits. If you’re capable of that kind of emotion you can admit you want someone. It was frustrating to the point I couldn’t really enjoy the couple.
The best part of this book for me were the teammates. Most of them were very supportive and added some humor to tamper down my frustrations with the MCs. I seriously love the idea of a big Russian hockey player that loves his cat that much. He was my favorite character! Enough so that the secondary characgters bumped up the rating a bit for me. Sadly this book was just too dependent on the MCs being clueless to be enjoyable. They had a good connection and some sexy tension going. I hoped they’d get over their denial quickly but instead they went off the rails.
I love books about hockey players so this one appealed to me. It starts out with a hook up one night between Nathan the hockey player and a guy that picks him up in a bar, Felix. It was the best sex they’d ever had but Nathan is still closeted so he sneaks out in the middle of the night thinking he’ll never see Felix. Then a year later Felix is hired as trainer for Nathan’s NHL team. It’s awkward but the guys decide to make the best of it. They even become friends. Given their attraction to each other it turns into more.
While I liked portions of the book ultimately the lack of communication and immaturity of Nathan ruined it for me. It was SO painfully obvious how they felt for each other and yet they not only didn’t have a clue, they push each other away. Like avoidance and grumpy temper tantrums on and off the ice. I just can not accept that grown men act this way. Avoid facing feelings yes. Go out of their way to be unhappy no. Together they were pretty sexy until Nathan continually got in his own way. He was also jealous of everyone Felix spent time with again to the point of hissy fits. If you’re capable of that kind of emotion you can admit you want someone. It was frustrating to the point I couldn’t really enjoy the couple.
The best part of this book for me were the teammates. Most of them were very supportive and added some humor to tamper down my frustrations with the MCs. I seriously love the idea of a big Russian hockey player that loves his cat that much. He was my favorite character! Enough so that the secondary characgters bumped up the rating a bit for me. Sadly this book was just too dependent on the MCs being clueless to be enjoyable. They had a good connection and some sexy tension going. I hoped they’d get over their denial quickly but instead they went off the rails.
June 1, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
This book got off to a good start and stayed above water for a portion of it. Nathan and Felix meet in the first chapter and have themselves one hot night. Nathan is convinced that he can’t have feelings or be in a relationship and hookups are just fine. His team and family both know he’s gay so that’s the not the issue. However, we never learn throughout the entire book exactly why Nathan does not want to feel anything more.
Nathan and Felix suffer from a complete lack of communication for just about the entire book. They become friends, good friends, that have lunch together often. They talk about all kinds of things, except anything to do with what is going on with them. Even when the benefits portion kicks in, once that is established, they barely talk to each then either. They both feel that the other one doesn’t want to be with them for anything other than sex. Yet, both go on dates with other people with Felix going so far as to get down on his knees to offer Nathan good luck with his date, but then he stops talking to him.
This is the entire book. There is an endless cycle of them being friends, hooking up, hanging with teammates, and then pretending not to be jealous. This goes on all of the way through the book until the 90% mark when they are forcibly put together to actually talk. The POV is only from Nathan and he constantly thinks he knows what Felix is thinking. Sure I could figure out what Felix wanted even if Nathan couldn’t, but we don’t get anything from Felix until much much later in the book.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
This book got off to a good start and stayed above water for a portion of it. Nathan and Felix meet in the first chapter and have themselves one hot night. Nathan is convinced that he can’t have feelings or be in a relationship and hookups are just fine. His team and family both know he’s gay so that’s the not the issue. However, we never learn throughout the entire book exactly why Nathan does not want to feel anything more.
Nathan and Felix suffer from a complete lack of communication for just about the entire book. They become friends, good friends, that have lunch together often. They talk about all kinds of things, except anything to do with what is going on with them. Even when the benefits portion kicks in, once that is established, they barely talk to each then either. They both feel that the other one doesn’t want to be with them for anything other than sex. Yet, both go on dates with other people with Felix going so far as to get down on his knees to offer Nathan good luck with his date, but then he stops talking to him.
This is the entire book. There is an endless cycle of them being friends, hooking up, hanging with teammates, and then pretending not to be jealous. This goes on all of the way through the book until the 90% mark when they are forcibly put together to actually talk. The POV is only from Nathan and he constantly thinks he knows what Felix is thinking. Sure I could figure out what Felix wanted even if Nathan couldn’t, but we don’t get anything from Felix until much much later in the book.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
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