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Bethesda Barracudas Hockey #1
Nice Catching You
What happens when the No. 1 college hockey star in the country falls in love—with a man?
Nick Johnson, a top prospect for a pro hockey team, has a secret: he’s gay. Tired of living in the closet for the sport he loves, he sees no way out.
Jacob Meyer’s string of bad boyfriends left him cynical about love. Instead, he focuses on his studies as a third-year law student. With a new job waiting for him, he’s eager to graduate and move on.
On a school-sponsored trip, Nick and Jacob meet in a most unexpected way. When Nick tells Jacob his secret, they decide to hang out, just as friends. But their attraction is too strong to ignore, and they soon begin dating.
Since Nick is a big man on campus, it doesn’t take long for people to notice his attachment to Jacob. All hell breaks loose when the relationship gets out. As the national media descends, university officials try to figure out how to solve their “problem.” Their efforts divide Nick’s team, inflame fans, and put Nick and Jacob’s futures in jeopardy. Will the men be able to survive a plot to destroy them without derailing both their careers?
Nice Catching You is an out-for-you romance featuring a lot of love, exciting hockey, and a beautiful holiday. There’s also plenty of steam and a very happy ending.
Nick Johnson, a top prospect for a pro hockey team, has a secret: he’s gay. Tired of living in the closet for the sport he loves, he sees no way out.
Jacob Meyer’s string of bad boyfriends left him cynical about love. Instead, he focuses on his studies as a third-year law student. With a new job waiting for him, he’s eager to graduate and move on.
On a school-sponsored trip, Nick and Jacob meet in a most unexpected way. When Nick tells Jacob his secret, they decide to hang out, just as friends. But their attraction is too strong to ignore, and they soon begin dating.
Since Nick is a big man on campus, it doesn’t take long for people to notice his attachment to Jacob. All hell breaks loose when the relationship gets out. As the national media descends, university officials try to figure out how to solve their “problem.” Their efforts divide Nick’s team, inflame fans, and put Nick and Jacob’s futures in jeopardy. Will the men be able to survive a plot to destroy them without derailing both their careers?
Nice Catching You is an out-for-you romance featuring a lot of love, exciting hockey, and a beautiful holiday. There’s also plenty of steam and a very happy ending.
311 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2022
390 people are currently reading
998 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
May 15, 2022
Not even NJR could get me through this one. His narration is amazing but the story is not. Embracing DNF!!! They are in college but sound like they are in high school with bullies and cliques. UGH!
January 30, 2022
DNF at 10%
No longer can I make myself suffer this to get more material for this rant. I honestly already have plenty to criticize.
1. An unrealistic lack of sports knowledge
This is actually my largest bone to pick about the 10% of the book I suffered. We have the captain of a highly ranked hockey team (Nick), and amoronic nerdy law student (Jacob).
Jacob apparently lives under a rock, possibly under the mantle of the Earth based on his complete lack of sports knowledge. No one, absolutely no one can not know that sports have positions and that captains are IMPORTANT PEOPLE. We have gym class in elementary school, you cannot possibly get through life without knowing that sports have positions, even if you don't know what they are for each sport. As far as I can tell, this was an honest question:
michaelscreamingno.gif
Secondly, you absolutely cannot get through life without knowing that a motherfukin captain is an important person. Hollywood tells you! Captain of ships! Captain of military shit! It's not some obscure sports/hockey terminology, it's a title of authority! But no, he acts like it's a mystery what a hockey captain does. I mean, check quote:
The first piece is a text to his friend, and while he's being a little jokey about it, the end of the last sentence makes it clear he's a flat out moron. Too much idiot.
I also have to note that apparently this university they go to has a top tier hockey team. Having gone to a university with top tier sports teams, this is going to absolute saturate campus, there is no way in the universe you could possibly miss sports terminology.
2. A pathetically young and naive "3L" student
Jacob is said to be a 3L law student - third year. That puts him at around 25 years old. He reads like a 16 year old. He has some remarkably childish behaviors in the hotel room - yes you can be unhappy someone is a jerk/homophobic/etc but he like...pouts about it. Cold shoulder type pout. It's eye roll worthy.
He also apparently never made it past the jocks r dumb phase, since he is totally blanked by the idea that Nick has been accepted to Georgetown for law school. Sure, not all college athletes focus on academics or care about them, but that doesn't mean that they're all meatheads. It's right up there with number 1 on my list of complaints.
3. The writing
This reads very young. The whole initial bus scene...the hotel room arguments, the creeping in the hotel room...the stilted conversations...one dimensional characters...
I could probably keep going, but this is good enough.
No longer can I make myself suffer this to get more material for this rant. I honestly already have plenty to criticize.
1. An unrealistic lack of sports knowledge
This is actually my largest bone to pick about the 10% of the book I suffered. We have the captain of a highly ranked hockey team (Nick), and a
Jacob apparently lives under a rock, possibly under the mantle of the Earth based on his complete lack of sports knowledge. No one, absolutely no one can not know that sports have positions and that captains are IMPORTANT PEOPLE. We have gym class in elementary school, you cannot possibly get through life without knowing that sports have positions, even if you don't know what they are for each sport. As far as I can tell, this was an honest question:
“So, what base do you play?” That brought me up cold, and I was ready to laugh at the joke until I noticed his curious expression. “Don’t get to many hockey games, do you, Jacob?”
michaelscreamingno.gif
Secondly, you absolutely cannot get through life without knowing that a motherfukin captain is an important person. Hollywood tells you! Captain of ships! Captain of military shit! It's not some obscure sports/hockey terminology, it's a title of authority! But no, he acts like it's a mystery what a hockey captain does. I mean, check quote:
JACOB: The captain’s special?
For the record, I’m not quite that dumb. I didn’t know anything about hockey, but a captain sounds special.
The first piece is a text to his friend, and while he's being a little jokey about it, the end of the last sentence makes it clear he's a flat out moron. Too much idiot.
I also have to note that apparently this university they go to has a top tier hockey team. Having gone to a university with top tier sports teams, this is going to absolute saturate campus, there is no way in the universe you could possibly miss sports terminology.
2. A pathetically young and naive "3L" student
Jacob is said to be a 3L law student - third year. That puts him at around 25 years old. He reads like a 16 year old. He has some remarkably childish behaviors in the hotel room - yes you can be unhappy someone is a jerk/homophobic/etc but he like...pouts about it. Cold shoulder type pout. It's eye roll worthy.
He also apparently never made it past the jocks r dumb phase, since he is totally blanked by the idea that Nick has been accepted to Georgetown for law school. Sure, not all college athletes focus on academics or care about them, but that doesn't mean that they're all meatheads. It's right up there with number 1 on my list of complaints.
3. The writing
This reads very young. The whole initial bus scene...the hotel room arguments, the creeping in the hotel room...the stilted conversations...one dimensional characters...
I could probably keep going, but this is good enough.
December 9, 2020
A YA M/M story about a strong college Hockey captain and the smaller, bright Law student.
They are headed to a ski resort school trip, until the bus slides and Nick catches Jacob before he is injured. So cute.
We like our guys right away. Each man immediately likes the other, and then Nick must go sit with his fellow players.
It gets serious right away, as there are some homophobes on the team, and Nick has been in the closet. But the men seem to gravitate to meals and talks.
Blonde Nick is a real sweetie under that muscled look,
and Jacob, with dark curly hair, is a terrific character with his own past.
We get to see our guys hang out, get closer, and have sexy times later on.
Amidst their romance comes a dark turn when the bullies are escalating. Even the school leaders and coach show their horrible attitudes, but our men have backup, from classmates, the whole country and outside sources.
Our up and coming legal eagles know some very smart and savvy lawyers, and solid parents.
All throughout, our MCs are full of strength, inner thoughts, and a deep passion. We understand why Nick has waited to come out, and Jacob totally gets it. They are fiercely supportive of each other.
Even when friends falter a bit, they understand and soon the true friends come through. Jacob gets attacked later, but wise Nick has him protected, and we are only told what the attack was supposed to do. Jacob is mostly unharmed.
There is some hockey games and explanation of hockey, which was nice, and there is violence on the rink.
It's hockey !
An entertaining, yet serious tale of young people finding their way and their backbones.
Marvelous !
It feels real, and I highly recommend it.
ENJOY !
======
They are headed to a ski resort school trip, until the bus slides and Nick catches Jacob before he is injured. So cute.
We like our guys right away. Each man immediately likes the other, and then Nick must go sit with his fellow players.
It gets serious right away, as there are some homophobes on the team, and Nick has been in the closet. But the men seem to gravitate to meals and talks.
Blonde Nick is a real sweetie under that muscled look,
and Jacob, with dark curly hair, is a terrific character with his own past.
We get to see our guys hang out, get closer, and have sexy times later on.
Amidst their romance comes a dark turn when the bullies are escalating. Even the school leaders and coach show their horrible attitudes, but our men have backup, from classmates, the whole country and outside sources.
Our up and coming legal eagles know some very smart and savvy lawyers, and solid parents.
All throughout, our MCs are full of strength, inner thoughts, and a deep passion. We understand why Nick has waited to come out, and Jacob totally gets it. They are fiercely supportive of each other.
Even when friends falter a bit, they understand and soon the true friends come through. Jacob gets attacked later, but wise Nick has him protected, and we are only told what the attack was supposed to do. Jacob is mostly unharmed.
There is some hockey games and explanation of hockey, which was nice, and there is violence on the rink.
It's hockey !
An entertaining, yet serious tale of young people finding their way and their backbones.
Marvelous !
It feels real, and I highly recommend it.
ENJOY !
======
November 24, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
This story reads very like a Young Adult book, for all that it has several graphic sex scenes. The characters are simple with almost no nuance, and the story is stripped down to the most uncomplicated steps. Side characters have the expected reactions to the reveal of Nick’s sexuality. There’s the homophobic team member, the tabloid reporter, the bitter ex … and nothing ever develops past that point. That’s not to say it’s a bad book, but it follows a very expected path with predictable results.
This story is fine for what it is, but if you’re looking for a book with more complexity and more character or plot development, you may want to pass on this one.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
This story reads very like a Young Adult book, for all that it has several graphic sex scenes. The characters are simple with almost no nuance, and the story is stripped down to the most uncomplicated steps. Side characters have the expected reactions to the reveal of Nick’s sexuality. There’s the homophobic team member, the tabloid reporter, the bitter ex … and nothing ever develops past that point. That’s not to say it’s a bad book, but it follows a very expected path with predictable results.
This story is fine for what it is, but if you’re looking for a book with more complexity and more character or plot development, you may want to pass on this one.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
July 30, 2024
Jacob & Nick
Rating: 2.9 ⭐
Narrator: Nick J. Russo
- College Hockey
- One Bed
- Coming Out
- Friends-to-Lovers
- Opposites Attract
- Jock/Nerd
- Found Family
The narration from Nick was great, per usual, the storyline was okay but not great. Overall, the story was okay but had a lot of potential it didn't quite meet. This is the more of a prequel to the series and setup Nick's backstory before he goes to a professional hockey team in the rest of the series.
It read very high school instead of college, so it threw me off while listening to this story. The opening bit with the bullying was where that feeling starts and then kind of trickles throughout the story. Like Nick and naming his thing "Excalibur" even when he's peeing, just uh no. Nicknames for body parts are okay if done without the cringe scenarios, this had a few that took away from the story. I also didn't understand how two students, one about to be a lawyer after graduation, were not using their brains and available resources to fix the legal problem they were facing. Seriously, a reputable law firm even offered to assist and you waited until the last possible moment to do your research and call them for help. I really couldn't get over that and spent a lot of time yelling at the story as it continued.
I did like the couple itself, once Jacob quit trying to change Nick's mind about coming out. Normally the closeted one doesn't want to come out but he did here, and Jacob kept trying to delay it or talk him out of it. Very strange but at least not dragged too long. I liked the families and friends stepping up to support the couple, especially the majority of the hockey team.
Content Warnings:
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Homophobic slurs
- University officials collusion
- Bullying
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 24 & 22
Rating: 2.9 ⭐
Narrator: Nick J. Russo
- College Hockey
- One Bed
- Coming Out
- Friends-to-Lovers
- Opposites Attract
- Jock/Nerd
- Found Family
The narration from Nick was great, per usual, the storyline was okay but not great. Overall, the story was okay but had a lot of potential it didn't quite meet. This is the more of a prequel to the series and setup Nick's backstory before he goes to a professional hockey team in the rest of the series.
It read very high school instead of college, so it threw me off while listening to this story. The opening bit with the bullying was where that feeling starts and then kind of trickles throughout the story. Like Nick and naming his thing "Excalibur" even when he's peeing, just uh no. Nicknames for body parts are okay if done without the cringe scenarios, this had a few that took away from the story. I also didn't understand how two students, one about to be a lawyer after graduation, were not using their brains and available resources to fix the legal problem they were facing. Seriously, a reputable law firm even offered to assist and you waited until the last possible moment to do your research and call them for help. I really couldn't get over that and spent a lot of time yelling at the story as it continued.
I did like the couple itself, once Jacob quit trying to change Nick's mind about coming out. Normally the closeted one doesn't want to come out but he did here, and Jacob kept trying to delay it or talk him out of it. Very strange but at least not dragged too long. I liked the families and friends stepping up to support the couple, especially the majority of the hockey team.
Content Warnings:
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Homophobic slurs
- University officials collusion
- Bullying
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 24 & 22
April 24, 2021
3 Happy Stars ⭐⭐⭐
This is my first novel by this pair. Its a middle of the road type read. Mild/moderate angst, falling in love, rampant homophobia. Its a slow burn with the angsty homophobia as the filler between mild sexy times.
I feel like my takeaway from this is just the word 'mild'.
The interaction is sweet but bland. Nick wants to come out of the closet but Jacob keeps holding him back. When he does get pushed out, its a basket of snakes. His teammates, run both hot & cold. His coach is a ridiculous dinosaur. (How do you tell a guy he's just confused & go sleep with a bunch of women to get his head right?)
This is my first novel by this pair. Its a middle of the road type read. Mild/moderate angst, falling in love, rampant homophobia. Its a slow burn with the angsty homophobia as the filler between mild sexy times.
I feel like my takeaway from this is just the word 'mild'.
The interaction is sweet but bland. Nick wants to come out of the closet but Jacob keeps holding him back. When he does get pushed out, its a basket of snakes. His teammates, run both hot & cold. His coach is a ridiculous dinosaur. (How do you tell a guy he's just confused & go sleep with a bunch of women to get his head right?)
November 18, 2020
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
Nick Johnson is a closeted senior at UNY and the captain of the men's hockey team. Jacob Meyer is in his third year of law school at UNY, and he is out and proud.
They meet on a school sanctioned ski trip. The weather is bad and the bus fishtails, causing Jacob to fall out of his seat. Nick catches him, and when their eyes meet, they feel a connection though neither one acts on it. As far as Jacob is concerned, Nick is the straight, golden boy of the hockey team. What Nick doesn't want anyone to know, is he's gay. The bus is forced to stop at a motel due to the weather and Nick and Jacob get paired up. Nick's friends give him grief over it but he's thrilled to spend time alone with Jacob. When his friends use derogatory talk regarding Jacob, Nick is quick to jump to his defense. Nick tells Jacob about himself, and they begin a friendship that slowly turns turns out to be more. Not without some bumps along the way. Due to a lack of communication in what they want. Despite all this, it's not overly angsty.
It's hard to hide the fact that they are a couple once things do start heating up. Nick's friends start noticing how much time he spends with Jacob, and some of the homophobic teammates start making comments. Jacob wants to protect Nick's college hockey career so they try to keep it a secret, but secrets get out.
This book is much different that a lot of college coming out books I've read recently. What I've been reading always seems like everyone is happy for the couple and they rarely face much strife. That is not this book. This is a much more realistic take (unfortunately) on what you could expect a couple in their positions to face. I was angry for a lot of this book. Nick has some teammates and what he thought were mentors who showed their true colors. There is a lot of injustice going down. But it does work out well for both of them in the end, and Jacob is given an opportunity to shine while Jacob ends up getting to follow his ultimate dream.
This is the first book I've read by these authors, and I would definitely read another by them. It was well written. I like books that give you lots of feels and this one does that.
Nick Johnson is a closeted senior at UNY and the captain of the men's hockey team. Jacob Meyer is in his third year of law school at UNY, and he is out and proud.
They meet on a school sanctioned ski trip. The weather is bad and the bus fishtails, causing Jacob to fall out of his seat. Nick catches him, and when their eyes meet, they feel a connection though neither one acts on it. As far as Jacob is concerned, Nick is the straight, golden boy of the hockey team. What Nick doesn't want anyone to know, is he's gay. The bus is forced to stop at a motel due to the weather and Nick and Jacob get paired up. Nick's friends give him grief over it but he's thrilled to spend time alone with Jacob. When his friends use derogatory talk regarding Jacob, Nick is quick to jump to his defense. Nick tells Jacob about himself, and they begin a friendship that slowly turns turns out to be more. Not without some bumps along the way. Due to a lack of communication in what they want. Despite all this, it's not overly angsty.
It's hard to hide the fact that they are a couple once things do start heating up. Nick's friends start noticing how much time he spends with Jacob, and some of the homophobic teammates start making comments. Jacob wants to protect Nick's college hockey career so they try to keep it a secret, but secrets get out.
This book is much different that a lot of college coming out books I've read recently. What I've been reading always seems like everyone is happy for the couple and they rarely face much strife. That is not this book. This is a much more realistic take (unfortunately) on what you could expect a couple in their positions to face. I was angry for a lot of this book. Nick has some teammates and what he thought were mentors who showed their true colors. There is a lot of injustice going down. But it does work out well for both of them in the end, and Jacob is given an opportunity to shine while Jacob ends up getting to follow his ultimate dream.
This is the first book I've read by these authors, and I would definitely read another by them. It was well written. I like books that give you lots of feels and this one does that.
October 30, 2020
This is both a heartbreaking and heartwarming story. Jacob and Nick do not have an easy journey by far. They're faced with the reality of coming out in professional sports, and dealing with the fallout that shouldn't - but sadly does - exist. There are a couple of people in their lives who I absolutely loathed and although they made me beyond furious and hurt, the hardship they bring just makes Nick and Jacob's hard-fought HEA all the more beautiful and so very deserving. But it's not all pain for Nick and Jacob. There is plenty of sweetness and banter, and a gorgeous wintery "falling in love" romance that will warm you up inside. And I think my favourite part is through all the fear and uncertainty, the love and support they receive, not only from each other, but from their true friends and family, is absolutely incredible. This book captured my heart in the best way!
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May 12, 2024DNF at 41%
I wanted to love this book…I could even put aside the word “tits” being used to describe another man’s chest… but I just couldn’t 😔
I wanted to love this book…I could even put aside the word “tits” being used to describe another man’s chest… but I just couldn’t 😔
November 1, 2020
Josh and Ryan really know how to write a beautiful book!! They just have a way with words that makes you want to keep reading and not put the book down, which is exactly what I did until I finished this one; no food, not drink just read it to the end. I loved it!
From start to finish this is an emotional journey of growth for not only the main characters but also the huge secondary cast, which is lovely to see. The two main characters are adorable from the beginnings of their tentative liaisons in the dark corners to being more brave you feel that strength through the writing. The support they find through each other made me cry alongside them; the pain felt was visceral through the emotional writing of the boys. As a mum it was really hard to read at points. As their relationship grows they get closer physically and they burn for each other and there's no holding them back!
For me though, it's the secondary cast that really wins it in this book. They way they have been written is just amazing. The way they provide support and love for their friends is exactly how you would want your friends to behave. It's how parents should react. It is not how an educational establishment or professional coach should react!
I don't know what else to say about this book! I thought at first that it wasn't as good as Too Close to the Flame, which I loved so much, but having written this review and thought about it I can see that they are two different books and as great as each other for different reasons which is why I love them both. I can't wait for the next one from Ryan and Josh.
I'm totally recommending this book, and the rest of the series to you; some of the scenes may be shocking to you if you haven't read a gay romance before, but this is a love story from beginning to end xx
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From start to finish this is an emotional journey of growth for not only the main characters but also the huge secondary cast, which is lovely to see. The two main characters are adorable from the beginnings of their tentative liaisons in the dark corners to being more brave you feel that strength through the writing. The support they find through each other made me cry alongside them; the pain felt was visceral through the emotional writing of the boys. As a mum it was really hard to read at points. As their relationship grows they get closer physically and they burn for each other and there's no holding them back!
For me though, it's the secondary cast that really wins it in this book. They way they have been written is just amazing. The way they provide support and love for their friends is exactly how you would want your friends to behave. It's how parents should react. It is not how an educational establishment or professional coach should react!
I don't know what else to say about this book! I thought at first that it wasn't as good as Too Close to the Flame, which I loved so much, but having written this review and thought about it I can see that they are two different books and as great as each other for different reasons which is why I love them both. I can't wait for the next one from Ryan and Josh.
I'm totally recommending this book, and the rest of the series to you; some of the scenes may be shocking to you if you haven't read a gay romance before, but this is a love story from beginning to end xx
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2021
I had a few small reservations about this book because it was really long and I hadn’t really heard much about these authors before, but I love hockey so I thought I’d give it a try. Boy, am so I glad I did!!!
Nick is a college hockey star in his senior year. He’s in the closet, but meeting Jacob makes him rethink everything. The two become friends and eventually begin studying together (Jacob’s in his last year of law school), and their flirtation is strong. When they finally decide to get together, Nick wants to come out, but Jacob knows how much he has to lose.
This book had heart, and frankly that is what I loved best about it. It dealt with the ugly side of bigotry and coming out, but it also showed the other positive and glorious side of friendships, teammate, and family. It was so heartwarming. There wasn’t really any angst between Nick and Jacob, and they communicated and dealt with their challenges head on. I adored these characters so much. I’m so glad I gave this book a chance.
Nick is a college hockey star in his senior year. He’s in the closet, but meeting Jacob makes him rethink everything. The two become friends and eventually begin studying together (Jacob’s in his last year of law school), and their flirtation is strong. When they finally decide to get together, Nick wants to come out, but Jacob knows how much he has to lose.
This book had heart, and frankly that is what I loved best about it. It dealt with the ugly side of bigotry and coming out, but it also showed the other positive and glorious side of friendships, teammate, and family. It was so heartwarming. There wasn’t really any angst between Nick and Jacob, and they communicated and dealt with their challenges head on. I adored these characters so much. I’m so glad I gave this book a chance.
January 3, 2021
I wanted to like this but there is so much to not like. Stereotypical characters with no depth. An ending wrapped up with a bow. Bad writing and ... Excalibur, really? The plot holds no surprises other than how few surprises it gives you. The best thing this book did was inspire me to order Mexican food for dinner - and that's pretty sad.
November 4, 2020
I really appreciate how well the characters in this book had such great depth. They became real and their story is quite unique, even though there are many books of this type, this one is exceptionally well dealt with. At times it had me laughing out loud, I just love the Nick names Nick and Jacob came up with, every time they mentioned those names made me grin. Their story moved fast as did their love. The sex, once it got that far was super hot. The best thing about this story is the love that jumped right off my kindle. (doesn't sound quite as good as off the page sadly) The secondary characters and team mates help to build this story to a high standard. I highly recommend this book.
October 31, 2020
This was a fantastic holiday story!! I was hooked from the first page!! I loved the support for each other they had. Their connection, humor and chemistry were great. Nick is a captain on a hockey team. He’s closeted and tired of it. He’s not willing to risk his scholarship and the homophobia of his teammates. Jacob is an out third year law student. They become friends but there is serious chemistry between them. Loved this story!! I received a free e-book copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2022
Nice Catching You was my first book by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Hardwood, and strangely it was the first time I’d listened to Nick J Russo as a narrator. Both authors and narrators made this a pleasant experience.
These authors have a clean writing style that was complemented by Nick’s narration. Taking on the Jock/Nerd trope, they created genuinely likeable characters that Nick’s vocal talents brought to life and made them seem like they could be sitting next to you on a bus like old friends.
The hockey elements of the story sometimes felt like a Hockey 101 class, which for me is not necessarily a bad thing. Although I have read many hockey related stories, Ice Hockey really isn’t a thing in Australia, so my knowledge comes from these types of books! I don’t mind going back to basics sometimes as if I understand what is happening, I can enjoy it more. So, while this approach certainly worked for me, I could see it as being a bit frustrating for seasoned hockey fans.
The story itself was engaging, and I liked how all the drama/angst of the story came from outside the relationship. The primary focus of the drama came from homophobia, from some surprising sources I may add! But through it all the Nick and Jacob mainly communicated with each other and presented a united front.
As I mentioned before this was my first narration by Nick J Russo. I’m not entirely sure how that happened, but I’m glad I was able to experience his vocal skills. Nick did a wonderful job of bring Nick and Jacob and the rest of the cast to life. With his voices, it was impossible not to genuinely like and care for Nick and Jacob, and he made all the homophobic jerks deliciously… jerky.
Overall, I enjoyed my experience with Ryan Taylor and Joshua Hardwood. Nice Catching You is a lovely ‘out for you’ romance that contains little/no internal relationship angst, with all problems stemming from outside their relationship. I loved how Nick and Jacob communicated. It’s a nice change from books where many of the problems stem from miscommunication and the resulting hurt feelings. If you enjoy jock/nerd college-based romances, it can’t hurt to give this one a go. The audio added an extra element and made everything feel more alive. In book form and/or audio, Nice Catching You was a relaxing way to spend a few hours on the weekend.
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These authors have a clean writing style that was complemented by Nick’s narration. Taking on the Jock/Nerd trope, they created genuinely likeable characters that Nick’s vocal talents brought to life and made them seem like they could be sitting next to you on a bus like old friends.
The hockey elements of the story sometimes felt like a Hockey 101 class, which for me is not necessarily a bad thing. Although I have read many hockey related stories, Ice Hockey really isn’t a thing in Australia, so my knowledge comes from these types of books! I don’t mind going back to basics sometimes as if I understand what is happening, I can enjoy it more. So, while this approach certainly worked for me, I could see it as being a bit frustrating for seasoned hockey fans.
The story itself was engaging, and I liked how all the drama/angst of the story came from outside the relationship. The primary focus of the drama came from homophobia, from some surprising sources I may add! But through it all the Nick and Jacob mainly communicated with each other and presented a united front.
As I mentioned before this was my first narration by Nick J Russo. I’m not entirely sure how that happened, but I’m glad I was able to experience his vocal skills. Nick did a wonderful job of bring Nick and Jacob and the rest of the cast to life. With his voices, it was impossible not to genuinely like and care for Nick and Jacob, and he made all the homophobic jerks deliciously… jerky.
Overall, I enjoyed my experience with Ryan Taylor and Joshua Hardwood. Nice Catching You is a lovely ‘out for you’ romance that contains little/no internal relationship angst, with all problems stemming from outside their relationship. I loved how Nick and Jacob communicated. It’s a nice change from books where many of the problems stem from miscommunication and the resulting hurt feelings. If you enjoy jock/nerd college-based romances, it can’t hurt to give this one a go. The audio added an extra element and made everything feel more alive. In book form and/or audio, Nice Catching You was a relaxing way to spend a few hours on the weekend.
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April 16, 2024
3.5/5 stars
This was good! A lot of it was unfortunately hard to get through—not because it was badly written or all that intense—mainly because it heavily features one of the few triggers that I go out of my way to avoid. I really hate the blatant homophobia. I don’t like seeing it on screen, I don’t like reading about it, even if it’s fiction. It’s more bearable if it’s just a handful of peers or family that have no power over their independent adult relatives. However, the bigotry seemed to surround us on all sides in this one, mainly from the people who held real authority over the MCs, and that’s where my trigger really sets off. I hunkered down and weathered the storm because I want to get to the other books in the series, and everything else in the story was working well for me. I just really, REALLY hope that from here on out, the homophobia itself won’t be the main villain our MCs have to overcome.
This was good! A lot of it was unfortunately hard to get through—not because it was badly written or all that intense—mainly because it heavily features one of the few triggers that I go out of my way to avoid. I really hate the blatant homophobia. I don’t like seeing it on screen, I don’t like reading about it, even if it’s fiction. It’s more bearable if it’s just a handful of peers or family that have no power over their independent adult relatives. However, the bigotry seemed to surround us on all sides in this one, mainly from the people who held real authority over the MCs, and that’s where my trigger really sets off. I hunkered down and weathered the storm because I want to get to the other books in the series, and everything else in the story was working well for me. I just really, REALLY hope that from here on out, the homophobia itself won’t be the main villain our MCs have to overcome.
did-not-finish
December 13, 2023I work at a law firm. This 3L is fucked. He's so stupid.
Also even people who have never watched hockey know there aren't bases? So dumb.
I don't know if it was just an error with the Kindle version but I was pretty immediately put off by the use of "your" where the correct word was "you're".
Honestly made it like 25% of the way through, stopped caring and DNF'd not only the book but removed all of the author's other books from my TBR. I'm a queer hockey romance slut but this was...insufferable. Whoops. Not submitting a rating in an attempt to make this harsh review less impactful at least.
Also even people who have never watched hockey know there aren't bases? So dumb.
I don't know if it was just an error with the Kindle version but I was pretty immediately put off by the use of "your" where the correct word was "you're".
Honestly made it like 25% of the way through, stopped caring and DNF'd not only the book but removed all of the author's other books from my TBR. I'm a queer hockey romance slut but this was...insufferable. Whoops. Not submitting a rating in an attempt to make this harsh review less impactful at least.
July 10, 2023
It pains me to have to do this but… I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes the entire novel. Too unrealistic and I just simply could not with the cutesy talk. This could’ve been a 3 but then they named their penises so it’s a 2 at best
June 8, 2022
There were many inconsistencies in the storyline, and I spent most of the story rolling my eyes but I guess, overall, it was a meet-cute, enjoyable, swiftly-in-love story. If that's your cup of tea.
August 15, 2021
DNF. Writing was just terrible.
May 21, 2023
Three stars that could have been two if I wasn't feeling generous today. The whole Excalibur thing was plain silly.
November 3, 2020
Loved it
An enjoyable read and an original story. Drama without too much angst. It's nice to read a story about gay men written by gay men for a change.
An enjoyable read and an original story. Drama without too much angst. It's nice to read a story about gay men written by gay men for a change.
November 2, 2020
Nice Catching You is a beautifully written, sweet, inspirational story with all the feels about Nick, a college hockey player, and Jacob, a law student. On a school trip the bus the students are in has a bit of trouble and knocks Jacob out of his seat. Nick makes no hesitation and catches Jacob before he can hurt himself. On the way back to campus they all have to stay the night in a small motel and share. Since Nick doesn't want to share with his two buddies and possibly sleep on the floor he ops to share with Jacob sInce he was on the trip by himself. Such a sweet meet for Nick and Jacob. I loved watching their love grow and both of them grow as men. It felt like meeting Jacob and wanting to protect him was Nick's chance to really be true to himself. It was just unfortunate that him loving Jacob was such a big deal to him being allowed to continue to play hockey. It's like Nick's the same person he was, before Jacob, in his ability to play hockey so why is it a big deal now that it's out that he has a boyfriend. Though some things need to happen to prevent even worse things from happening in the future. The support Nick and Jacob got from the team and their families was incredible. All the good that came from the whole situation. I got a little teary when the team used the rainbow tape on their sticks. That was a sweet gesture. This is another wonderful book from these two amazing authors and I definitely recommend it, a book to enjoy again and again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2020
Nick Johnson is captain of the men’s hockey team and a top prospect to go pro. Although gay, he is still keeping that fact hidden to avoid potential repercussions that could destroy any potential career for him. He didn’t know how his teammates would react, but the press would eat him alive. Jacob Meyer is a third-year law student, having already secured a new job waiting for him when he graduates. Returning on the bus from a ski weekend sponsored by the school, the two of them meet when the bus slides on the slippery streets and Jacob almost falls on his face. The dangerous blizzard conditions force the bus to pull into a hotel and Jacob and Nick are rooming together for the night. Nick finds it easy to talk to Jacob and tells him about his situation. Since the two feel very comfortable, they decide to maintain a friendship, but it grows more quickly than they expected. With Nick known by everyone, eyes always on him in public, it is soon noticed that he and Jacob are so close and the chaos he had always avoided comes crashing down.
This is a good story of what they go through and how they support each other through some very difficult experiences. There is no quicker way to find out who your friends are than by being under attack like that. Lots of emotions will be raised by this story. Grab your copy and find out whether they can get through this. Will the experience make them stronger or will they go their separate ways?
This is a good story of what they go through and how they support each other through some very difficult experiences. There is no quicker way to find out who your friends are than by being under attack like that. Lots of emotions will be raised by this story. Grab your copy and find out whether they can get through this. Will the experience make them stronger or will they go their separate ways?
October 31, 2020
Where do I start ! This book ticked all my boxes , well written , a great solid piece of work.
On the way back from a ski weekend Jacob Meyer met Nick Johnson .
This was not the way to meet anyone on the floor!, while the bus was in trouble...
Nick, a strong Captain of his hockey team a mean player with a great passion for his sport.
Kind and thoughtful his team mates applaud him .
But, and a big but for Nick , he knows he is gay has always hidden it away knowing that his team mates,( but probably not all ) and the press would have a field day with the information.
Some times people and sport are so homophobic it is outrageous and shocking to even begin to have those thoughts.
Jacob is a law student. He is out and proud . They meet , they connect , they have feelings they work together and support each other. This is such a beautiful love story that I just read the book in one sitting devouring all the words..
Nick and Jacobs chemistry is therefrom the beginning, to watch it grow is wonderful.
Was their life easy , definitely not ! It was so darn difficult and painful, you wonder if they could come out the other side as a couple ... These authors are extremely talented I thank them for their great writing skills and giving me pleasure ..Thanks guys ...
February 18, 2022
🎧Audiobook Review🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
I have already read some books by the authors Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood and was therefore very excited about this audio book, which I did not know as a book yet.
I love the authors' writing style because they write heartwarming, engaging, captivating and emotional.
Nick is the captain of the hockey team who has not come out yet. He's likeable and well-liked by his teammates. And he is the opposite of Jacob, a proud law student who is open about his sexuality.
The two first meet on a bus when it runs into trouble. Nick's protective instinct is immediately there and Jacob is intrigued by Nick as well. You could feel the sizzle between the two, who fall in love quickly, but the chemistry is palpable. I love it when a book is authentically told and I can connect with the characters.
Another plus was Jacob, who knows nothing about hockey. I found that very refreshing and it was fun to follow Jacob in the stands at his first hockey game.
Unfortunately, life isn't always easy and after Nick stands by his relationship with Jacob, the problems begin. Who will stand by him? Where do things go from here?
I enjoyed the story immensely. For one thing, there's the emotional and heartwarming relationship between the two, which is pretty hot at times. Also, "Nice Catching You" features great supporting characters - I love most of Nick's teammates and the way they relate to their captain.
It also deals with serious issues and difficult situations and this was told in an exciting way.
If you want to read a fascinating story about sports, friendship, team spirit, love and coming out, but also homophobia and people who love to make life difficult for others, you should definitely pick this one up.
Nick J. Russo is a talented storyteller who nailed the characters. I love how he brought the story to life. He is very good at portraying the emotions of the protagonists and it was a great pleasure to listen to his pleasant voice with all the different pitches, different voices and always a pleasant pace of narration. The almost 9 hours passed very quickly.
Highly recommended!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
I have already read some books by the authors Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood and was therefore very excited about this audio book, which I did not know as a book yet.
I love the authors' writing style because they write heartwarming, engaging, captivating and emotional.
Nick is the captain of the hockey team who has not come out yet. He's likeable and well-liked by his teammates. And he is the opposite of Jacob, a proud law student who is open about his sexuality.
The two first meet on a bus when it runs into trouble. Nick's protective instinct is immediately there and Jacob is intrigued by Nick as well. You could feel the sizzle between the two, who fall in love quickly, but the chemistry is palpable. I love it when a book is authentically told and I can connect with the characters.
Another plus was Jacob, who knows nothing about hockey. I found that very refreshing and it was fun to follow Jacob in the stands at his first hockey game.
Unfortunately, life isn't always easy and after Nick stands by his relationship with Jacob, the problems begin. Who will stand by him? Where do things go from here?
I enjoyed the story immensely. For one thing, there's the emotional and heartwarming relationship between the two, which is pretty hot at times. Also, "Nice Catching You" features great supporting characters - I love most of Nick's teammates and the way they relate to their captain.
It also deals with serious issues and difficult situations and this was told in an exciting way.
If you want to read a fascinating story about sports, friendship, team spirit, love and coming out, but also homophobia and people who love to make life difficult for others, you should definitely pick this one up.
Nick J. Russo is a talented storyteller who nailed the characters. I love how he brought the story to life. He is very good at portraying the emotions of the protagonists and it was a great pleasure to listen to his pleasant voice with all the different pitches, different voices and always a pleasant pace of narration. The almost 9 hours passed very quickly.
Highly recommended!
August 7, 2022
4.5 Maple Leaf Review
Nice Catching You (Nice Catching You 1) by Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
"𝘕𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦."
⏤
An emotional journey about acceptance, growth, and heartwarming love.
On the way home from a school trip, Nick catches Jacob when he falls out of his seat when the bus skids off the road. Being forced to stay at a hotel overnight, Nick and Jacob share a room and being their friendship. The more time they spend together, the more Nick is ready to finally come out about his sexuality. Jacob is worried about what will happen and tries to get Nick to reconsider but Nick is determined to be true to himself so he can be the person he feels Jacob deserves.
I love Nick and Jacob. From their meet-cute on, they continued to win me over. The banter between the friendly teammates had a constant smile on my face and even had me laughing out loud at times. There were some characters that I did not particularly like, for obvious reasons, but I was glad to see everyone else not back down from their negativity.
These authors are still relatively new to me, as this is only my second book by them, but I am looking forward to reading more of their books.
Nick J. Russo did an amazing job of narrating that I felt like I was listening to a duet narration instead of a single narrator.
Nice Catching You is an mm, college, sports (hockey), jock/nerd, out-for-you romance told in the dual first-person point of view.
*advanced copy kindly provided and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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Nice Catching You (Nice Catching You 1) by Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
"𝘕𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦."
⏤
An emotional journey about acceptance, growth, and heartwarming love.
On the way home from a school trip, Nick catches Jacob when he falls out of his seat when the bus skids off the road. Being forced to stay at a hotel overnight, Nick and Jacob share a room and being their friendship. The more time they spend together, the more Nick is ready to finally come out about his sexuality. Jacob is worried about what will happen and tries to get Nick to reconsider but Nick is determined to be true to himself so he can be the person he feels Jacob deserves.
I love Nick and Jacob. From their meet-cute on, they continued to win me over. The banter between the friendly teammates had a constant smile on my face and even had me laughing out loud at times. There were some characters that I did not particularly like, for obvious reasons, but I was glad to see everyone else not back down from their negativity.
These authors are still relatively new to me, as this is only my second book by them, but I am looking forward to reading more of their books.
Nick J. Russo did an amazing job of narrating that I felt like I was listening to a duet narration instead of a single narrator.
Nice Catching You is an mm, college, sports (hockey), jock/nerd, out-for-you romance told in the dual first-person point of view.
*advanced copy kindly provided and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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June 23, 2021
***Spoilers splash here and there**
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2021...
So I’m going to say this gay people goes through a lot. Reading this book and seeing what both Nick and Jacob had to go through. Because of a coach and a teammate. Is crazy, it’s crazy how much hate someone can have in their hearts.
Gays go through the same thing with as black and Asians etc. but in different ways. Regardless there’s hate. For Nick coach to have so much hate inside of him and telling those boys to speak up on things that they feel to need to speak on and then turn around and doesn’t do it himself is ridiculous. Deep down he was a evil man. What showed his evilness was when Nick came out as gay.
I had to look at this man sideways when I was reading this book. Because he demanded that Nick say he was STRAIGHT. When he been GAY way before he got to college…
Like he dated, his best friend until they went away to college and couldn’t do the long distance thing and his best friend moved on to someone else.
Speaking of his old best friend, I was curious about him and why they never meet up again just as friends or something. I wanted to know what happen to him and the new guy but whatevs.
Anyways, on to Banks he was horrible from the beginning and was glad that he got what he deserved throughout the book from getting his @$$ whooped to him getting them months in jail … including the coach and the other guy I don’t care to remember his name.
Also, I was thinking or more so curious as to … I was curious about the authors of this book. I was wondering if this but was about them > but they both lawyers but who knows ..
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2021...
So I’m going to say this gay people goes through a lot. Reading this book and seeing what both Nick and Jacob had to go through. Because of a coach and a teammate. Is crazy, it’s crazy how much hate someone can have in their hearts.
Gays go through the same thing with as black and Asians etc. but in different ways. Regardless there’s hate. For Nick coach to have so much hate inside of him and telling those boys to speak up on things that they feel to need to speak on and then turn around and doesn’t do it himself is ridiculous. Deep down he was a evil man. What showed his evilness was when Nick came out as gay.
I had to look at this man sideways when I was reading this book. Because he demanded that Nick say he was STRAIGHT. When he been GAY way before he got to college…
Like he dated, his best friend until they went away to college and couldn’t do the long distance thing and his best friend moved on to someone else.
Speaking of his old best friend, I was curious about him and why they never meet up again just as friends or something. I wanted to know what happen to him and the new guy but whatevs.
Anyways, on to Banks he was horrible from the beginning and was glad that he got what he deserved throughout the book from getting his @$$ whooped to him getting them months in jail … including the coach and the other guy I don’t care to remember his name.
Also, I was thinking or more so curious as to … I was curious about the authors of this book. I was wondering if this but was about them > but they both lawyers but who knows ..
June 18, 2025
2.0 / 5 ⭐️
The premise and themes about homophobia in sports were interesting. But the writing quality and execution was not good. So much "telling" in the prose and as a result, it felt like the characters never got a chance to come alive.
The premise and themes about homophobia in sports were interesting. But the writing quality and execution was not good. So much "telling" in the prose and as a result, it felt like the characters never got a chance to come alive.
November 14, 2020
A good start as the bus goes sideways.
Nick was crushing on Jacob even without knowing him from a distance. Standed in a hotel room they cant not help get to know each other..lol. Nick and Jacob are hot for each other and their relationship beigins. Scenes play out and Nick doesnt want to hide especially with Jacob. Lessons about thr hockey Jacob has no knowledge about. Trouble on the team and Nick was the focus of it all.
The book was a great one, although I didnt connect with them, I enjoyed reading it. Jacob was horrible the way he treats his best freind, Kayla. Nick's coming out journey isnt a good one and there's turbulent times. The book told with both POVs and a good ending.
• one bed
• homophobic slurs
• closeted MC
Jacob 24 was on the bus traveling on snowy roads filled with hockey players. Jacob was studying for law and was almost finished hopeing to grab a job offer.
A bus out of control and Nick catches him safely. Nick was the captain of the mens team.
Nick was crushing on Jacob even without knowing him from a distance. Standed in a hotel room they cant not help get to know each other..lol. Nick and Jacob are hot for each other and their relationship beigins. Scenes play out and Nick doesnt want to hide especially with Jacob. Lessons about thr hockey Jacob has no knowledge about. Trouble on the team and Nick was the focus of it all.
The book was a great one, although I didnt connect with them, I enjoyed reading it. Jacob was horrible the way he treats his best freind, Kayla. Nick's coming out journey isnt a good one and there's turbulent times. The book told with both POVs and a good ending.
• one bed
• homophobic slurs
• closeted MC
Jacob 24 was on the bus traveling on snowy roads filled with hockey players. Jacob was studying for law and was almost finished hopeing to grab a job offer.
A bus out of control and Nick catches him safely. Nick was the captain of the mens team.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews