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Stick Side #5
Two-Man Team
One wrongful arrest ruined Kris Xappa’s image—and made his NHL team look bad. Now, with orders to keep his head down, the last thing he needs is to develop feelings for his younger teammate—and best friend’s brother. The fact that he can’t stop thinking about their one illicit kiss doesn’t mean anything.
Rory Stanton is perfectly capable of taking care of himself and doesn’t need his brother’s best friend keeping an eye on him. Sure, he likes having Kris’s attention, but he’d rather have it for entirely different reasons. Too bad that one kiss they shared wasn’t enough to convince Kris to take a chance on him.
When an injury lands Rory in Kris’s care, will these teammates be able to see past the obstacles to become a two-man team?
Rory Stanton is perfectly capable of taking care of himself and doesn’t need his brother’s best friend keeping an eye on him. Sure, he likes having Kris’s attention, but he’d rather have it for entirely different reasons. Too bad that one kiss they shared wasn’t enough to convince Kris to take a chance on him.
When an injury lands Rory in Kris’s care, will these teammates be able to see past the obstacles to become a two-man team?
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2021
71 people are currently reading
578 people want to read
About the author
Amy Aislin
38 books923 followersAmy's lived with her head in the clouds since she first picked up a book as a child, and being fluent in two languages means she's read a lot of books! She first picked up a pen on a rainy day in fourth grade when her class had to stay inside for recess. Tales of treasure hunts with her classmates eventually morphed into love stories between men, and she's been writing ever since. She writes evenings and weekends—or whenever she isn't at her full-time day job saving the planet at Canada's largest environmental non-profit.
An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter
An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
December 3, 2021
[reread: 26/11/21]
i was getting scared there for a minute thinking these two were never gonna get a book after seeing their cute af interactions from the last book.
and i was even more scared thinking that i was putting too much pressure on this book and that it would disappoint me...
but instead, these two bitches had me in a chokehold✋🏻
i wanted to read this all in one sitting but my 9am seminar wouldn’t let me😌
mm sports romance? ✔️
pansexual representation? ✔️
brother’s best friend? ✔️
unrequited crush? ✔️
forced proximity? ✔️
there’s only one bed...? ✔️
semi-slowburn? ✔️
the way this made me smile so much🥰 the boys delivered, thank GOD. Amy Aislin is so good at building up this slow, delicious tension while simultaneously keeping us fed with soft moments, banter and friendship.
now, Kris was a big dumb Himbo, my god. and i loved it. he was so oblivious to Rory’s crush it was kinda comical (but that scene at the pub...💀 it made my heart hurt for Rory omg). i just loved this bcos all Kris wanted was to make Rory happy— to watch him smile, hear him laugh, encourage him to paint his trains, to let him babble on and on about anything and everything. he was just ✨obsessed✨ with Rory and it was so delightful.
their playfulness was so sweet and fun! the scene when Rory is reading Stephen King in the dark while Kris scares the shit out of him had me grinning like a maniac. these two reminded me why i love reading so much bcos recently no book has hit... not even a lacklustre tap.
so this book was my saving grace lol.
like i did not think these bitches painting toy trains together would make me simp so hard. i was just giddy the entire time— i wanted to devour this in one sitting but also draw it out for as long as possible so i wouldn’t have to say goodbye. looks like Kris isn’t the only simp here.
and chapter fifteen made me it’s bitch✋🏻 i was truly on the edge of my seat and ready to sue for emotional distress – this author really knows how to break my heart before piecing it back together. i was fangirling and it was glorious.
while the whole “cuddles?🥺” with Kris acting all put out and reluctant while he was internally like:
and looks like i fall in love with fictional characters who love waffles? first, Nina Zenik ( mommy? sorry. mommy? sorry ) and now Rory Stanton... and as a Brit i have never had sweet waffles in my life, so i’ll just take their word for it.
i loved Rory and his sunshine aura (i mean even Kris said this when he was around Rory: no matter the rain tinkling onto the glass of the sunroom, he nevertheless felt like a ray of sunshine had given him a boost of energy. AND Even in the dimly lit room, Rory shone bright as a lightning bolt. like just excuse me while i go sob rn.
Rory was a dishevelled, glasses-wearing puppy with a secret love for painting model trains and crushing on his older brother’s best friend... who’s house was slyly decorated with all of Rory’s painted trains🥰🥺 im sorry but they were just so damn sweet oh my god.
and he was so funny omg. the random shit that came out of his mouth was so endearing and weird— it was funny bcos it wasn’t OTT nor was Rory even trying to be funny. he just was. every time he made Kris helplessly laugh, i did too😭
Amy Aislin also executes the perfect pacing imo. it was why i adored book 2 so much (am i still talking about Dan and Ash? yes, yes i am and im not even sorry about it) bcos she gives you some slowburn tension, really explores the characters individually and how their dynamic blossoms and changes before reaching the romantic stage. without having to wait forever for the romance— and she shows you how they function as a couple, too. there’s no abrupt HEA once they decide to be together. she really gives you time to witness the couple in different stages of their relationship throughout and it just hits so hard for me.
pacing is usually one of my biggest issues with books— when the pacing is off, it doesn’t matter how awesome the charters are. the story just feels off-kilter.
... so guess, im just an Amy Aislin stan account at this point? i truly just adore the way she writes her stories and characters. it’s just the perfect blend of everything i love and crave from a romance.
she’s also seriously good at writing trauma— i noticed it first with Roman in book 3, then with Dan (and Ash) in book 2. it’s very subtle; she dribbles it into the narrative at just the right pace to really allow you to understand the characters, their personalities, their actions and thought processes. but without throat punching you with excess trauma. it’s not there for drama’s sake but to provide a thorough exploration of the characters.
so Rory’s experience with bullying as a kid comes through the story so you understand why he acts or thinks a certain way, but it’s just subtly dropped in here and there... it’s not overt and loud, just to cause shit. i think i said it in my review of Keeping Kellan, that this author is really good at writing mundane conflicts and everyday goings on but it’s still riveting and intriguing to read bcos it’s so realistic in its familiarity. i imagine a lot of adults who were bullied struggle to still enjoy the things in life that they were bullied for— it’s a reminder of a traumatic time in their lives, so it still packs that emotional punch without dramatising shit.
just little things he did, said and thought showed how deeply ingrained his trauma was that he barely noticed it— so i just loved the execution. it wasn’t drama for drama’s sake. it was just real people going through the motions of life.
the brother’s best friend trope was executed really well bcos the moment Kris takes Rory out on a date, he literally phones Rory’s brother and tells him😭 no messing about there. Emery was super supportive and wasn’t even a factor nor a conflict in the relationship, so loved that.
and finally, i loved cameos from other characters and couples but equally loved that it didn’t bog down the romance - sometimes authors can get too carried away with crossovers, spin offs and cameos, that they forget themselves a little and it stifles the current romance. so loved that while we got to see some old faves, this was still very much Kris and Rory’s story.
*whispers* if i was gonna be nit picky and complain... id have wanted a cameo from my soft boi, Roman🥰missed his grumpy face!
...now give me Emery and Felix😎
CAN YALL HEAR ME SCREAMING!!!! I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THESE TWO BITCHES FOR FAR TOO LONG😭😭😭
i didnt think these two were ever gonna get a book bcos its been so long. i am losing my mind right now, sorry. dont mind me.
i was getting scared there for a minute thinking these two were never gonna get a book after seeing their cute af interactions from the last book.
and i was even more scared thinking that i was putting too much pressure on this book and that it would disappoint me...
but instead, these two bitches had me in a chokehold✋🏻
i wanted to read this all in one sitting but my 9am seminar wouldn’t let me😌
mm sports romance? ✔️
pansexual representation? ✔️
brother’s best friend? ✔️
unrequited crush? ✔️
forced proximity? ✔️
there’s only one bed...? ✔️
semi-slowburn? ✔️
the way this made me smile so much🥰 the boys delivered, thank GOD. Amy Aislin is so good at building up this slow, delicious tension while simultaneously keeping us fed with soft moments, banter and friendship.
now, Kris was a big dumb Himbo, my god. and i loved it. he was so oblivious to Rory’s crush it was kinda comical (but that scene at the pub...💀 it made my heart hurt for Rory omg). i just loved this bcos all Kris wanted was to make Rory happy— to watch him smile, hear him laugh, encourage him to paint his trains, to let him babble on and on about anything and everything. he was just ✨obsessed✨ with Rory and it was so delightful.
their playfulness was so sweet and fun! the scene when Rory is reading Stephen King in the dark while Kris scares the shit out of him had me grinning like a maniac. these two reminded me why i love reading so much bcos recently no book has hit... not even a lacklustre tap.
so this book was my saving grace lol.
Once he’d changed into sweatpants and a T-shirt, he crept back out into the living room, snuck up behind the couch, and whispered, “Boo,” in Rory’s ear.
“Eeeee!” Rory jumped a mile. The paperback went flying.
Kris laughed so hard he almost fell over. Didn’t help when Rory bashed him over the shoulders with his book.
“Asshole.”
like i did not think these bitches painting toy trains together would make me simp so hard. i was just giddy the entire time— i wanted to devour this in one sitting but also draw it out for as long as possible so i wouldn’t have to say goodbye. looks like Kris isn’t the only simp here.
and chapter fifteen made me it’s bitch✋🏻 i was truly on the edge of my seat and ready to sue for emotional distress – this author really knows how to break my heart before piecing it back together. i was fangirling and it was glorious.
while the whole “cuddles?🥺” with Kris acting all put out and reluctant while he was internally like:
When they were both comfortable and back in their original positions—noses only inches apart—Rory grinned hopefully. “Cuddles?”
Kris did the complete opposite of what he expected.
He lifted an arm and said, “Get over here.”
“Yes,” Rory said under his breath, drawing the word out. He snuggled up to the warmth that was Kris, sticking his nose in Kris’s throat.
He fell asleep to Kris’s quiet breathing and Kris’s hand running along his spine.
and looks like i fall in love with fictional characters who love waffles? first, Nina Zenik ( mommy? sorry. mommy? sorry ) and now Rory Stanton... and as a Brit i have never had sweet waffles in my life, so i’ll just take their word for it.
i loved Rory and his sunshine aura (i mean even Kris said this when he was around Rory: no matter the rain tinkling onto the glass of the sunroom, he nevertheless felt like a ray of sunshine had given him a boost of energy. AND Even in the dimly lit room, Rory shone bright as a lightning bolt. like just excuse me while i go sob rn.
Rory was a dishevelled, glasses-wearing puppy with a secret love for painting model trains and crushing on his older brother’s best friend... who’s house was slyly decorated with all of Rory’s painted trains🥰🥺 im sorry but they were just so damn sweet oh my god.
and he was so funny omg. the random shit that came out of his mouth was so endearing and weird— it was funny bcos it wasn’t OTT nor was Rory even trying to be funny. he just was. every time he made Kris helplessly laugh, i did too😭
Kris kissed his temple. “Hey, you still need to tell me your thing no one knows about you.”
“Oh, right. When I was in high school, I used to jerk off to my poster of the Jonas Brothers.”
Chuckling helplessly, Kris held him close and drew the covers up.
Amy Aislin also executes the perfect pacing imo. it was why i adored book 2 so much (am i still talking about Dan and Ash? yes, yes i am and im not even sorry about it) bcos she gives you some slowburn tension, really explores the characters individually and how their dynamic blossoms and changes before reaching the romantic stage. without having to wait forever for the romance— and she shows you how they function as a couple, too. there’s no abrupt HEA once they decide to be together. she really gives you time to witness the couple in different stages of their relationship throughout and it just hits so hard for me.
pacing is usually one of my biggest issues with books— when the pacing is off, it doesn’t matter how awesome the charters are. the story just feels off-kilter.
... so guess, im just an Amy Aislin stan account at this point? i truly just adore the way she writes her stories and characters. it’s just the perfect blend of everything i love and crave from a romance.
Kris tucked the blanket in around Rory’s legs, then moved to squat near his head. “Hey, Rory?”
Rory’s eyes opened halfway. “Hm?”
“I have mushy feelings for you too.”
The smile Rory graced him with was soft and achingly vulnerable, sending every one of Kris’s long dormant protective instincts haywire. He tugged the glasses off Rory’s nose and set them on the coffee table, then kissed the corner of Rory’s mouth and stood.
she’s also seriously good at writing trauma— i noticed it first with Roman in book 3, then with Dan (and Ash) in book 2. it’s very subtle; she dribbles it into the narrative at just the right pace to really allow you to understand the characters, their personalities, their actions and thought processes. but without throat punching you with excess trauma. it’s not there for drama’s sake but to provide a thorough exploration of the characters.
so Rory’s experience with bullying as a kid comes through the story so you understand why he acts or thinks a certain way, but it’s just subtly dropped in here and there... it’s not overt and loud, just to cause shit. i think i said it in my review of Keeping Kellan, that this author is really good at writing mundane conflicts and everyday goings on but it’s still riveting and intriguing to read bcos it’s so realistic in its familiarity. i imagine a lot of adults who were bullied struggle to still enjoy the things in life that they were bullied for— it’s a reminder of a traumatic time in their lives, so it still packs that emotional punch without dramatising shit.
just little things he did, said and thought showed how deeply ingrained his trauma was that he barely noticed it— so i just loved the execution. it wasn’t drama for drama’s sake. it was just real people going through the motions of life.
The sound of the storm disappeared. Rain hitting the gutters, splashing onto muddy patches of grass, thunder sweeping overhead . . . all of it gone as Rory’s senses filled with the scent of a sleep-musky Kris, the pressure of Kris’s hand at his back, and the press of Kris’s lips against his.
the brother’s best friend trope was executed really well bcos the moment Kris takes Rory out on a date, he literally phones Rory’s brother and tells him😭 no messing about there. Emery was super supportive and wasn’t even a factor nor a conflict in the relationship, so loved that.
and finally, i loved cameos from other characters and couples but equally loved that it didn’t bog down the romance - sometimes authors can get too carried away with crossovers, spin offs and cameos, that they forget themselves a little and it stifles the current romance. so loved that while we got to see some old faves, this was still very much Kris and Rory’s story.
*whispers* if i was gonna be nit picky and complain... id have wanted a cameo from my soft boi, Roman🥰missed his grumpy face!
...now give me Emery and Felix😎
”Wouldn’t be much of a surprise at this point, would it?”
“Is it cuddles?”
Love for this man filled him with warmth and happiness rushing through his veins like a tidal wave of fierce adoration and hope.
Hope for the future they’d make together.
He squeezed Rory close. “All the cuddles.”
***** original fangirl screaming*****
CAN YALL HEAR ME SCREAMING!!!! I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THESE TWO BITCHES FOR FAR TOO LONG😭😭😭
i didnt think these two were ever gonna get a book bcos its been so long. i am losing my mind right now, sorry. dont mind me.
October 13, 2021
This is one of my favourites in what's been a really brilliant series from Amy.
I'm a huge sports romance fan in the first place but I do have a soft spot for ice hockey (even though the real NHL has some serious issues) guys falling in love and this one's a real treat.
We get a really gentle and slow build up with a best friends' brother/small age gap romance coupled with conflicts over coming out, retirement and thoughts on how the public feel they have ownership of players because of their celebrity status.
It's steaming hot when it kicks off but it takes a wee while to get there because Kris hasn't really considered his best friend Emery's younger brother Rory as being anything but a teammate.
Until a drunken kiss (from Rory) at Christmas leads into more a few months later when Rory ends up staying with Kris after breaking his leg falling off a ladder while helping one of the older people who live in his apartment block.
And Rory is just such a sweetheart, he's vulnerable, at heart he still suffers from the feelings of isolation he encountered when he was bullied at school. Kris, on the other hand, is the personification of inner strength and he's dealing with all sorts of bad media over an incident he wasn't even involved in.
The dynamics between the two of them worked well for me, their friendship grows out of that shared childhood experience and as Kris begins to realise his feelings for Rory are more than just that of looking out for his best friend's younger brother, the tensions amp up.
I'm really hoping we get Emery and Felix's story because they've intrigued me from the off and there's definitely something brewing with the guy who's come up out of the AHL to cover for Rory and Darragh who owns the pub that Kris and his teammates gather at.
All in all, another top entry from Amy.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours in return for an honest and unbiased review
I'm a huge sports romance fan in the first place but I do have a soft spot for ice hockey (even though the real NHL has some serious issues) guys falling in love and this one's a real treat.
We get a really gentle and slow build up with a best friends' brother/small age gap romance coupled with conflicts over coming out, retirement and thoughts on how the public feel they have ownership of players because of their celebrity status.
It's steaming hot when it kicks off but it takes a wee while to get there because Kris hasn't really considered his best friend Emery's younger brother Rory as being anything but a teammate.
Until a drunken kiss (from Rory) at Christmas leads into more a few months later when Rory ends up staying with Kris after breaking his leg falling off a ladder while helping one of the older people who live in his apartment block.
And Rory is just such a sweetheart, he's vulnerable, at heart he still suffers from the feelings of isolation he encountered when he was bullied at school. Kris, on the other hand, is the personification of inner strength and he's dealing with all sorts of bad media over an incident he wasn't even involved in.
The dynamics between the two of them worked well for me, their friendship grows out of that shared childhood experience and as Kris begins to realise his feelings for Rory are more than just that of looking out for his best friend's younger brother, the tensions amp up.
I'm really hoping we get Emery and Felix's story because they've intrigued me from the off and there's definitely something brewing with the guy who's come up out of the AHL to cover for Rory and Darragh who owns the pub that Kris and his teammates gather at.
All in all, another top entry from Amy.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours in return for an honest and unbiased review
Read
January 17, 2023DNF at 19%. I don’t know if it’s me or the book, but I keep thinking about what I should read next instead of enjoying this, so I think it’s time to give up.
June 1, 2023
2.5 stars
This is case of “it’s me not you”. The story is all right, but I was bored out of my mind. Kris’s character is bland although Rory is much better, but their romance lacks that essential spark. The writing is good as is the relationship development. Yet the story is predictable and it’s my least favorite book in the series. Rounding down to 2 stars seemed too mean hence the rounding up.
— hockey romance
— pansexual/gay
— brother’s best friend
— slow burn
— coming out
This is case of “it’s me not you”. The story is all right, but I was bored out of my mind. Kris’s character is bland although Rory is much better, but their romance lacks that essential spark. The writing is good as is the relationship development. Yet the story is predictable and it’s my least favorite book in the series. Rounding down to 2 stars seemed too mean hence the rounding up.
— hockey romance
— pansexual/gay
— brother’s best friend
— slow burn
— coming out
August 13, 2022
this has my favorite character. stanton i love you
October 4, 2021
This was a sweet team mates to lovers/ age gap but not much/ best friend's brother/ roommate romance. Kris, man that guy can't catch a break. Every action he takes gets twisted by the media and screw their team PR person, who basically issues statements but tells him to keep his head down and be quiet even though he did nothing wrong. Ugh. And sweet sweet Rory, poor guy breaks his leg and misses out on a lot. But if it didn't happen, maybe he wouldn't have rediscovered parts of himself or finally taken a shot with his crush. Him and Kris are genuinely good to each other, their team is like a big family, it was all pretty great. I mean besides the awful media and a broken leg. It was great watching them work through it all, together. And they make such a mushy couple, aww!
February 9, 2024
tw - homophobia
kris xappa reminds me of calimero, the unlucky little black duck. he attracts problems although he tries to do good.
rory is so sweet, naive, and adorable. he feels fragile yet strong. they fit in together.
i think i would have loved it so much more if it wasn't a mix of too many tropes.
big brother's bbf × bff's younger brother
forced proximity (roommates for work+ roommates to take care of rory)
media bashing
but was still very much enjoyable!
kris xappa reminds me of calimero, the unlucky little black duck. he attracts problems although he tries to do good.
rory is so sweet, naive, and adorable. he feels fragile yet strong. they fit in together.
i think i would have loved it so much more if it wasn't a mix of too many tropes.
big brother's bbf × bff's younger brother
forced proximity (roommates for work+ roommates to take care of rory)
media bashing
but was still very much enjoyable!
November 6, 2022
I give up at this point.
The story was great until you hit around 50%. After that, after that first amazing kiss?
This has
🤍His best friend's little brother trope (one of the best there is)
🤍Age gap
🤍Both hockey players, therefore both big, built men
🤍Forced proximity, sort of (one MC is injured)
Having all that and for the life of me I can't understand how there still isn't any spice there.
Just a little bit.
One reviewer wrote that this book has a little more spice than others. - No, it doesn't.
Xappa is a senior on his team, he's around 30, big, muscled, scowly guy, does a lot of charity work, is a pansexual.
Rory is Xappa's best friend's little brother, openly gay, he's 23, really good at what he does, he's a nerd-turned-sexy-hockey player, so you can imagine the visuals are amazing with these two.
Xappa is looking after Rory from a distance as a favor to Emery, his friend, and in the last book they had that one drunken kiss, but Rory's been crushing on the guy since he was a teenager.
And finally he gets a chance to do something about it.
🌈Great characters. Great hockey Universe, I mean really everything is thought out, I love everything! EXCEPT a big thing missing and that is the spice. I mean, involve just a little bit.
And by little bit I don't mean
"Inappropriately, that grabby hands "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme" gif popped into his head."
"Next time, I'm going to sit on your chest and fuck your face. But I don't have the patience for that right now." (Aaaaarrghghg wth??!!! Needless to say that didn't happen.)
That sitting on Kris's dick that was talked about a lot - didn't happen.
But they aparently had a busy first night, we just didn't hear about it.
And for the rest of the book they're not intimate anymore. That's it, folks.
God dammit!
I'm hoping the author gets a little more courageous in the future, because she'll probably continue the series, Emery and Felix, Augustin and Darragh?, and she introduces spice to the books, because the outcome will be amazing.
🥅🏒Remember Desie, the goalie who got injured?
Yeah, there's another book in this series and it's not listed here as a part of the series, I don't know why. It's called THE PLAY OF HIS LIFE and I'm reading that after this review.
September 23, 2025
I think I might be burnt out on this series. The characters keep sucking me back though!!! This had so. Much. Drama!! I hated how many times I had to keep reading the same story of how Rory was bullied as a child. Yeah, I got it the first time! Everything kept circling back to the same thing. Then with the problems Kris kept having with people posting things about him on social media or how everyone was filming everything he did on their phones. That’s life in the 21st century! Especially for people in the public eye.
So while I enjoyed all the characters, the story did nothing to keep me engaged. I say I’m going to stop here, but I’m sure I’ll keep picking the next one up. 🤦🏻♀️
So while I enjoyed all the characters, the story did nothing to keep me engaged. I say I’m going to stop here, but I’m sure I’ll keep picking the next one up. 🤦🏻♀️
July 13, 2022
Hot hockey players falling in love. Sweet guy with past bullying trauma who learns to accept all his parts and pieces and is loved for his authentic self. Misunderstood tough guy who looks like a bruiser but actually has a heart of gold and is really sweet.
Once they get past their early miscommunication Kris and Rory are perfect for each other, and they eventually have a very happy ending. I really hope we get Rory's brother Emery and his best friend Felix's story soon.
Once they get past their early miscommunication Kris and Rory are perfect for each other, and they eventually have a very happy ending. I really hope we get Rory's brother Emery and his best friend Felix's story soon.
December 25, 2023
I just could not make up my mind on a rating for this book. I loved Rory and Kris but it felt too much like reading a YA novel sometimes. I know this is a make believe world but NHL players hanging decorations for a charity just seemed a smidge too out there to suspend disbelief.
Read initially in early 2022 and did not rate on GR.
12/2023: re-read
Read initially in early 2022 and did not rate on GR.
12/2023: re-read
March 13, 2023
Another sweet book in this series.
I liked Rory and Kris, it was fun reading how they got together and fell in love.
Rory was adorable and Kris fierce and protective, they fit perfectly together.
There was no drama, no misunderstandings or miscommunication, the plot was predictable but I had a great time reading.
4 stars.
I liked Rory and Kris, it was fun reading how they got together and fell in love.
Rory was adorable and Kris fierce and protective, they fit perfectly together.
There was no drama, no misunderstandings or miscommunication, the plot was predictable but I had a great time reading.
4 stars.
April 6, 2025
This book wasn't bad, but it wasn't my favorite of the series either.
I think the slow burning romance was very well written, I liked how their relationship was bringing out the best of both guys, how they supported each other and how they progressed from friends to lovers 💕
This hockey romance had almost no hockey in it and I know I'm weird but I read hockey romances because I like hockey 😂
This being book number 5, of course all the couples of the other books had cameos and it was super confusing for me. Probably going to read the next one anyway this author just knows how to write romances with emotionally mature guys and I'm here for that!
I think the slow burning romance was very well written, I liked how their relationship was bringing out the best of both guys, how they supported each other and how they progressed from friends to lovers 💕
This hockey romance had almost no hockey in it and I know I'm weird but I read hockey romances because I like hockey 😂
This being book number 5, of course all the couples of the other books had cameos and it was super confusing for me. Probably going to read the next one anyway this author just knows how to write romances with emotionally mature guys and I'm here for that!
April 22, 2023
I can't get enough of Amy Aislin's books 🥲 Her characters are so lovable and I hope she never stops writing stories like these
October 22, 2021
I love this series and literally anything Amy Aislin writes!
I started this series all over again just so I could be ready for Kris and Rory's story, and I'm so glad I did! I loved this series even better the second time around, plus I found out there's going to be more?? Sign me up, I'll read them all!! This was was super super sweet, especially with Kris being super oblivious to Rory's flirting but that just made me fall for the characters even more. Also, Rory is just the sweetest thing and I want to wrap him up and take him home with me!
I recommend this entire series!! You will fall in love with these characters, promise!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy!
I started this series all over again just so I could be ready for Kris and Rory's story, and I'm so glad I did! I loved this series even better the second time around, plus I found out there's going to be more?? Sign me up, I'll read them all!! This was was super super sweet, especially with Kris being super oblivious to Rory's flirting but that just made me fall for the characters even more. Also, Rory is just the sweetest thing and I want to wrap him up and take him home with me!
I recommend this entire series!! You will fall in love with these characters, promise!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy!
October 30, 2021
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is another sweet and sexy addition to a great series. Completely devoted to his charity work, Kris is devastated when tabloid gossip threatens his reputation and his plans for his life after retirement. His life is further complicated when his teammate (and his best friend’s younger brother) is injured and needs Kris’ care.
If it weren’t for his uncanny ability to get himself into the news for the wrong reason, Kris would almost be too saintly to be fun. He’s a little bit too perfect - but the fact that the world thinks he’s a drunk and a thug almost makes up for it. Rory is a fabulous counterpoint to Kris. He’s a series of contrasts. After years of bullying, Rory lacks the confidence the public expects from a young rising hockey star.
This is a slow burn friends to lovers romance. The angst in both men’s lives is personal, there is very little friction or miscommunication between the two. The friendship that builds while Rory stays with Kris builds slowly into something that gives them both strength. This is a gentle, heartwarming read and I enjoyed it very much.
This is another sweet and sexy addition to a great series. Completely devoted to his charity work, Kris is devastated when tabloid gossip threatens his reputation and his plans for his life after retirement. His life is further complicated when his teammate (and his best friend’s younger brother) is injured and needs Kris’ care.
If it weren’t for his uncanny ability to get himself into the news for the wrong reason, Kris would almost be too saintly to be fun. He’s a little bit too perfect - but the fact that the world thinks he’s a drunk and a thug almost makes up for it. Rory is a fabulous counterpoint to Kris. He’s a series of contrasts. After years of bullying, Rory lacks the confidence the public expects from a young rising hockey star.
This is a slow burn friends to lovers romance. The angst in both men’s lives is personal, there is very little friction or miscommunication between the two. The friendship that builds while Rory stays with Kris builds slowly into something that gives them both strength. This is a gentle, heartwarming read and I enjoyed it very much.
November 30, 2021
This was really good. I love hockey romances and this one was very well done. It had a bit more spice than the last couple books, but I still feel like it’s low on sex scenes.
Both these characters were really sweet and kind, even though drama seemed to follow them everywhere. I felt their chemistry and especially liked how Kris showed his affection for Rory in the relationship. I also really liked how everything happened, the pacing of it, and the resolution of issues.
The reason this wasn’t magical enough for a five star rating is solely due to the fact that there didn’t seem to be a honeymoon period with Kris and Rory. Kris was adorably oblivious to Rory’s feelings and Rory had been crushing on Kris in some way or another since he was a young teen. When Kris finally realised that not only did he have feelings for Rory, but Rory might return them…there was no excitement. Rory wasn’t ecstatic like I would expect someone in that situation to be, but rather the story just continued on the warm, comfortable, but low simmer it had been on the entire time.
Also, the term “life partner” was used three times in this book and I’ll never recover.
Both these characters were really sweet and kind, even though drama seemed to follow them everywhere. I felt their chemistry and especially liked how Kris showed his affection for Rory in the relationship. I also really liked how everything happened, the pacing of it, and the resolution of issues.
The reason this wasn’t magical enough for a five star rating is solely due to the fact that there didn’t seem to be a honeymoon period with Kris and Rory. Kris was adorably oblivious to Rory’s feelings and Rory had been crushing on Kris in some way or another since he was a young teen. When Kris finally realised that not only did he have feelings for Rory, but Rory might return them…there was no excitement. Rory wasn’t ecstatic like I would expect someone in that situation to be, but rather the story just continued on the warm, comfortable, but low simmer it had been on the entire time.
Also, the term “life partner” was used three times in this book and I’ll never recover.
October 21, 2021
The story was so fun to read and follow these two. It shows how if someone puts wrong stuff on the internet about you it can hurt your reputation. Xappa and Rory are so cute together. Rory breaks his leg and Kris moves him in to help him out. A kiss turns out to be the best thing for both of them.
I did receive an Arc for a review.
I did receive an Arc for a review.
November 6, 2021
It’s perfectly fine.
Basic pucks, fucks, feels, outing.
In Canada, eh?
Basic pucks, fucks, feels, outing.
In Canada, eh?
December 23, 2021
I’m so weak for the hockey boys on this team. Tough on the outside, cinnamon rolls on the inside
October 20, 2021
I've loved this series so far, and this book certainly didn't disappoint. This one is my favourite so far. Rory and Kris are so well written, that I fell in love with them right away. I love that Amy's characters are always real people that sometimes make mistakes. The chemistry between Rory and Kris is off the charts. So steamy, once they get together. The author's empathy for the two, and the circumstances they find themselves in positively shines from the page. A lovely romance, with very little angst and some first class secondary characters. I recommend the whole series
January 26, 2023
How did I not know there were more books in this series?
Gobbled it down. Love me a couple of closeted hockey players.
Gobbled it down. Love me a couple of closeted hockey players.
November 8, 2021
Check out our full post for TWO-MAN TEAM on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth book in the series. I would recommend that you read them in order, because they are all very good, but in some ways, I do think you could read this one and then go back and catch up on the goodness of the previous couplings.
Kris is readying his post-retirement life plans for the end of the season. He and two of his closest friends are setting up a not-for-profit, but some bad publicity starts to seriously damage his reputation. It is incredibly frustrating and causes ridiculous and unwanted attention from the media. It worries investors, and also affects his game. Although his coming to the aid of his best friend's younger brother, Rory, causes even more confusion and distraction... which is a surprise, possibly even a pleasant one!
Rory is now playing hockey with Kris, his long, long-time crush. Always unattainable, and sort out of bounds, the interest has never dimmed. So, when Kris offers him a place to recover after he breaks his leg, Rory has to accept, but knows every day will be a challenge.
There is so much to enjoy in this story, from the sexy men who try and resist the temptation literally in front of them, and the hilarity of Rory's love of waffles, and the excitement of the game. The author has done a great job of putting these two men in a position that they need to navigate to find a way forward together. It is really great to catch up with the team and how their life plans are progressing along with their blossoming relationships.
I am already looking forward to the next installment – hint, hint!
Sarah – ☆☆☆☆
This is another sweet and sexy addition to a great series. Completely devoted to his charity work, Kris is devastated when tabloid gossip threatens his reputation and his plans for his life after retirement. His life is further complicated when his teammate (and his best friend’s younger brother) is injured and needs Kris’ care.
If it weren’t for his uncanny ability to get himself into the news for the wrong reason, Kris would almost be too saintly to be fun. He’s a little bit too perfect – but the fact that the world thinks he’s a drunk and a thug almost makes up for it. Rory is a fabulous counterpoint to Kris. He’s a series of contrasts. After years of bullying, Rory lacks the confidence the public expects from a young rising hockey star.
This is a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance. The angst in both men’s lives is personal, there is very little friction or miscommunication between the two. The friendship that builds while Rory stays with Kris builds slowly into something that gives them both strength. This is a gentle, heartwarming read, and I enjoyed it very much.
Veronica – ☆☆☆☆
There was so much I loved about this story. I’ll start with the romance between Kris and Rory. Rory breaks his leg and moves in with Kris while he is healing. We already know that Rory has feelings for Kris, but Kris’ feelings start to change the more they spend time together. While there are definitely a few hot and sexy parts in this story, it was their emotional connection and the way the men supported each other that I really loved. I was so wrapped up in their love story that at one point where Kris inadvertently hurts Rory’s feelings, I was devastated and grumpy for half the day.
There is more to this story than the romance. Kris is arrested when he steps in to stop a fight in a bar. The media reporting and fallout cause problems with Kris’ plans to launch a non-profit to help kids and teens. And the scrutiny from the media and bloggers doesn’t stop and it made me so mad. It had me thinking about how this happens in real life and how hard it must be to be in the public eye.
As for Rory, at 23 years old he is still dealing with the emotional fallout of having been bullied in school. This was something I could totally relate to and seeing Rory confront his issues and deal with them was comforting.
I was completely enamored with Rory and Kris. Kris has such a big heart and Rory is completely adorable. This story was wonderful and by the end I was so happy for Kris and Rory and everything they overcame together to get to a happy place together.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
October 24, 2021
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth book in the series. I would recommend that you read them in order, because they are all very good, but in some ways I do think you could read this one and then go back and catch up on the goodness of the previous couplings.
Kris is readying his post-retirement life plans for the end of the season. He and two of his closest friends are setting up a not-for-profit, but some bad publicity starts to seriously damage his reputation. It is incredibly frustrating and causes ridiculous and unwanted attention from the media. It worries investors, and also affects his game. Although his coming to the aid of his best friend's younger brother, Rory, causes even more confusion and distraction ... which is a surprise, possibly even a pleasant one!
Rory is now playing hockey with Kris, his long, long time crush. Always unattainable, and sort out of bounds, the interest has never dimmed. So when Kris offers him a place to recover after he breaks his leg, Rory has to accept, but knows every day will be a challenge.
There is so much to enjoy in this story, from the sexy men who try and resist the temptation literally in front of them, and the hilarity of Rory's love of waffles, and the excitement of the game. The author has done a great job of putting these two men in a position that they need to navigate to find a way forward together. It is really great to catch up with the team and how their life plans are progressing along with their blossoming relationships.
I am already looking forward to the next installment - hint hint!
This is the fifth book in the series. I would recommend that you read them in order, because they are all very good, but in some ways I do think you could read this one and then go back and catch up on the goodness of the previous couplings.
Kris is readying his post-retirement life plans for the end of the season. He and two of his closest friends are setting up a not-for-profit, but some bad publicity starts to seriously damage his reputation. It is incredibly frustrating and causes ridiculous and unwanted attention from the media. It worries investors, and also affects his game. Although his coming to the aid of his best friend's younger brother, Rory, causes even more confusion and distraction ... which is a surprise, possibly even a pleasant one!
Rory is now playing hockey with Kris, his long, long time crush. Always unattainable, and sort out of bounds, the interest has never dimmed. So when Kris offers him a place to recover after he breaks his leg, Rory has to accept, but knows every day will be a challenge.
There is so much to enjoy in this story, from the sexy men who try and resist the temptation literally in front of them, and the hilarity of Rory's love of waffles, and the excitement of the game. The author has done a great job of putting these two men in a position that they need to navigate to find a way forward together. It is really great to catch up with the team and how their life plans are progressing along with their blossoming relationships.
I am already looking forward to the next installment - hint hint!
November 7, 2021
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
There was so much I loved about this story. I’ll start with the romance between Kris and Rory. Rory breaks his leg and moves in with Kris while he is healing. We already know that Rory has feelings for Kris, but Kris’ feelings start to change the more they spend time together. While there are definitely a few hot and sexy parts in this story, it was their emotional connection and the way the men supported each other that I really loved. I was so wrapped up in their love story that at one point where Kris inadvertently hurts Rory’s feelings, I was devastated and grumpy for half the day.
There is more to this story than the romance. Kris is arrested when he steps in to stop a fight in a bar. The media reporting and fallout cause problems with Kris’ plans to launch a non-profit to help kids and teens. And the security from the media and bloggers doesn’t stop and it made me so mad. It had me thinking about how this happens in real life and how hard it must be to be in the public eye.
As for Rory, at 23 years old he is still dealing with the emotional fallout of having been bullied in school. This was something I could totally relate to and seeing Rory confront his issues and real with them was comforting.
I was completely enamored with Rory and Kris. Kris has such a big heart and Rory is completely adorable. This story was wonderful and by the end I was so happy for Kris and Rory and everything they overcame together to get to a happy place together.
There was so much I loved about this story. I’ll start with the romance between Kris and Rory. Rory breaks his leg and moves in with Kris while he is healing. We already know that Rory has feelings for Kris, but Kris’ feelings start to change the more they spend time together. While there are definitely a few hot and sexy parts in this story, it was their emotional connection and the way the men supported each other that I really loved. I was so wrapped up in their love story that at one point where Kris inadvertently hurts Rory’s feelings, I was devastated and grumpy for half the day.
There is more to this story than the romance. Kris is arrested when he steps in to stop a fight in a bar. The media reporting and fallout cause problems with Kris’ plans to launch a non-profit to help kids and teens. And the security from the media and bloggers doesn’t stop and it made me so mad. It had me thinking about how this happens in real life and how hard it must be to be in the public eye.
As for Rory, at 23 years old he is still dealing with the emotional fallout of having been bullied in school. This was something I could totally relate to and seeing Rory confront his issues and real with them was comforting.
I was completely enamored with Rory and Kris. Kris has such a big heart and Rory is completely adorable. This story was wonderful and by the end I was so happy for Kris and Rory and everything they overcame together to get to a happy place together.
October 4, 2021
Ever since there was a hint of Xappa and Rory having feelings for each other, I wanted to read this book and I was not disappointed. I loved it.
So, this is a story about Kris Xappa and Rory Stanton, two hockey players previously mentioned in earlier books.
After one drunken kiss almost a year ago, Kris has been thinking more and more about Rory, despite never considering him as a potential partner, he was always seeing him more like a best friend's younger brother. Rory, on the other hand, had feelings for Kris much longer.
After an injury, Rory got the opportunity to stay at Kris' place for a few weeks, and it was the perfect time for them to get to know each other more. The chemistry between those two was amazing. I loved every single moment they spent together because they were so funny and they fit well together and it makes you wanna cheer for them. They spent a lot of time joking, cooking for one another, watching and discussing movies and it was just so, so sweet. I wanted to cry and smile and scream every time Rory asked for cuddles because this level of cuteness made my heart melt.
I loved the mentions of other characters from the series, and there were a lot of them. My favorite character is still Tay (and book 4 is still my favorite book in this series) and I am so glad we got to see more of his and Rory's close friendship. I also loved Rory's brother Emery and how he wasn't against their relationship at all. I kinda wonder will we get his and Felix's story as well, or at least a novella because they deserve it.
I received an ARC from the author and I am so, so grateful.
So, this is a story about Kris Xappa and Rory Stanton, two hockey players previously mentioned in earlier books.
After one drunken kiss almost a year ago, Kris has been thinking more and more about Rory, despite never considering him as a potential partner, he was always seeing him more like a best friend's younger brother. Rory, on the other hand, had feelings for Kris much longer.
After an injury, Rory got the opportunity to stay at Kris' place for a few weeks, and it was the perfect time for them to get to know each other more. The chemistry between those two was amazing. I loved every single moment they spent together because they were so funny and they fit well together and it makes you wanna cheer for them. They spent a lot of time joking, cooking for one another, watching and discussing movies and it was just so, so sweet. I wanted to cry and smile and scream every time Rory asked for cuddles because this level of cuteness made my heart melt.
I loved the mentions of other characters from the series, and there were a lot of them. My favorite character is still Tay (and book 4 is still my favorite book in this series) and I am so glad we got to see more of his and Rory's close friendship. I also loved Rory's brother Emery and how he wasn't against their relationship at all. I kinda wonder will we get his and Felix's story as well, or at least a novella because they deserve it.
I received an ARC from the author and I am so, so grateful.
October 17, 2021
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Two- Man Team is the fifth book in the Stick Side series by Amy Aislin but can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Rory has crushed on his older brother's best friend Kris since forever. They also happen to be teammates. A drunk kiss that didn't seem to be reciprocated stops Rory from making his feelings known. A mishap on a ladder leads to Rory out of the game for months and Kris offering him to let him stay with him while he recovers. The forced proximity causes Kris to see his best friend's little brother in a new light. But will bad publicity from the press coming at Kris constantly keep their new relationship from blooming.
"Hey, Rory?"
Rory's eyes opened halfway. "Hm?"
"I have mushy feelings for you too."
This was such a sweet one. Rory was precious, and his emotional scars from being bullied as a kid breaks your heart. Kris was a forced to be reconned with. Tough on the outside but a softie on the inside. It was frustrating that the media kept painting him in a negative light when all he wanted to do was help people and stand up for others. The two together were adorable and the intimate scenes way spicier than I expected for the two of them, but it worked.
Kris drew back and dragged his nose along Rory's collarbone ."I want to devour you. I always want to devour you."
Rory gave a strangled laugh. "I won't say no to that."
Two-Man Team is a contemporary mm sports romance where you'll find a slight age gap, pansexual representation, the best friends brother trope, bad movie watching, train painting, supportive family & friends, cuddles, and lots of waffles.
Two- Man Team is the fifth book in the Stick Side series by Amy Aislin but can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Rory has crushed on his older brother's best friend Kris since forever. They also happen to be teammates. A drunk kiss that didn't seem to be reciprocated stops Rory from making his feelings known. A mishap on a ladder leads to Rory out of the game for months and Kris offering him to let him stay with him while he recovers. The forced proximity causes Kris to see his best friend's little brother in a new light. But will bad publicity from the press coming at Kris constantly keep their new relationship from blooming.
"Hey, Rory?"
Rory's eyes opened halfway. "Hm?"
"I have mushy feelings for you too."
This was such a sweet one. Rory was precious, and his emotional scars from being bullied as a kid breaks your heart. Kris was a forced to be reconned with. Tough on the outside but a softie on the inside. It was frustrating that the media kept painting him in a negative light when all he wanted to do was help people and stand up for others. The two together were adorable and the intimate scenes way spicier than I expected for the two of them, but it worked.
Kris drew back and dragged his nose along Rory's collarbone ."I want to devour you. I always want to devour you."
Rory gave a strangled laugh. "I won't say no to that."
Two-Man Team is a contemporary mm sports romance where you'll find a slight age gap, pansexual representation, the best friends brother trope, bad movie watching, train painting, supportive family & friends, cuddles, and lots of waffles.
October 20, 2021
I think that this book my be my favourite of the series so far.....just. Kris and Rory have known each other for years with Kris's best friend, Emery, being Rory's older brother. Rory has had a teensy crush on the older man for a while now and when he moves in with Kris when he breaks his leg, he's hoping it's a chance for them to grow closer. However, Kris is rather oblivious and has a media storm going on around him at the same time. The friendship that has a chance to build between them is fun and sweet, moving them from teammates and family friends to friends in their own right to..... more. It's a slow burner to start with but once Kris gets what Rory has been showing him, they are on fire. Totally love how supportive they are of each other. For Kris, he's getting unjustly raked over the coals in the media time and again while he's trying to organise a charity foundation and play a season of hockey. For Rory, he's sidelined with broken leg, taking away the only thing he's had since he started hockey as a young boy, leaving him feeling lost for a while. Their relationship is actually fairly "easy" compared to everything else that is making life difficult for the two of them at the moment but they, and the team are there for each other throughout. I love this hockey team and how they're not just teammates. They're like a family, showing support when needed, spending holidays together, and betting on who is most likely to get married first!
A brilliant addition to the series and highly recommended.
A brilliant addition to the series and highly recommended.
October 19, 2021
Rory Stanton has had a crush on his bigger brother’s best friend, Kris Xappa since he rescued him from some bullies when Rory was just a kid. When an accident gives him the chance to conquest the man of his dreams, Rory is not wiling to let the chance go… But will Kris realise there is more to Rory that the cute little boy he remembers?
This is a very sweet, low angst friends to lovers romance. There is a bit of an age gap between Kris and Rory, but that does not really weight in the plot, besides the fact that he is one of Kris’ best friends little brother. But that’s not where the anguish comes from. Basically, the bit of drama comes from the press of the media and some issues from the past Rory has not realised he hasn’t overcome yet. But basically it is a very cute love story with two likeable, genuine nice guys as main characters, surrounded by supportive and friendly secondary characters (most of them we know from other books) which will cheer you up
Sappy smile on finishing guaranteed!
I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review
This is a very sweet, low angst friends to lovers romance. There is a bit of an age gap between Kris and Rory, but that does not really weight in the plot, besides the fact that he is one of Kris’ best friends little brother. But that’s not where the anguish comes from. Basically, the bit of drama comes from the press of the media and some issues from the past Rory has not realised he hasn’t overcome yet. But basically it is a very cute love story with two likeable, genuine nice guys as main characters, surrounded by supportive and friendly secondary characters (most of them we know from other books) which will cheer you up
Sappy smile on finishing guaranteed!
I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review
October 24, 2021
I enjoyed Kris and Rory's journey from friendship to teammate to finally acknowledging their "mushy feelings" for each other, VERY much! These two are just too adorable.
Everything Kris went through due to people assuming things about him, posting their own bigoted and idiotic opinions , and videos of what clearly they don't know anything about is sadly very accurate of the world .
Rory is such an amazing man full of love, support and wicked skills on the ice!
I love the close knit family of the hockey team in this series. Everyone has each others backs.
All the side characters and how their lives have progressed since their stories were told is always a fav of mine.
Peeking into a possible future book...you'll know who I mean, has me crossing my fingers that we get their story soon.
The only other thing I will say is this...Love is Love.
Shout out to Waffles...how amazing are they? And toy trains aren't just for kids.
HIGHLY recommend this book and all those connected if you haven't read them already.
Everything Kris went through due to people assuming things about him, posting their own bigoted and idiotic opinions , and videos of what clearly they don't know anything about is sadly very accurate of the world .
Rory is such an amazing man full of love, support and wicked skills on the ice!
I love the close knit family of the hockey team in this series. Everyone has each others backs.
All the side characters and how their lives have progressed since their stories were told is always a fav of mine.
Peeking into a possible future book...you'll know who I mean, has me crossing my fingers that we get their story soon.
The only other thing I will say is this...Love is Love.
Shout out to Waffles...how amazing are they? And toy trains aren't just for kids.
HIGHLY recommend this book and all those connected if you haven't read them already.
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