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Be yourself because everyone else is taken. But what if that risks everything you know?
Seth Johnson has worked his entire career to be remembered more for his skill than as an openly gay NHL player. Finding a boyfriend has been pushed to the back burner. As for exposing his softer side, the side that loves lace and lingerie? It’s not happening. A Halloween party is the perfect time to indulge with no risk of anyone discovering his identity, not even Phantom, the masked man who knew everything he needed without being told.
Mazdon Grabowski knows the odds are against him ever making it to the NHL, but a surprise call sends him to Nashville for a chance at his. When he gets dragged to a Halloween costume party, the last thing he expects is meeting Pretty. The man wearing a pink nightie and blond wig is desperate for his control but hesitant to share anything personal.
Fearing his secret being exposed, Seth is barely willing to give Phantom his number, much less his name. Lines blur between reality and persona and hearts get involved. When Mazdon discovers his Pretty is none other than Seth Johnson, his teammate and friend, he has no choice but to confront him. The question is: How will Seth react?
Seth is the third book in the Johnson Family Rules series, and contains a hockey player who wears lace, a cactus Spiked, and a twin brother who knows no boundaries. While Seth can be read as a standalone, it will be best enjoyed as part of the series.
Seth Johnson has worked his entire career to be remembered more for his skill than as an openly gay NHL player. Finding a boyfriend has been pushed to the back burner. As for exposing his softer side, the side that loves lace and lingerie? It’s not happening. A Halloween party is the perfect time to indulge with no risk of anyone discovering his identity, not even Phantom, the masked man who knew everything he needed without being told.
Mazdon Grabowski knows the odds are against him ever making it to the NHL, but a surprise call sends him to Nashville for a chance at his. When he gets dragged to a Halloween costume party, the last thing he expects is meeting Pretty. The man wearing a pink nightie and blond wig is desperate for his control but hesitant to share anything personal.
Fearing his secret being exposed, Seth is barely willing to give Phantom his number, much less his name. Lines blur between reality and persona and hearts get involved. When Mazdon discovers his Pretty is none other than Seth Johnson, his teammate and friend, he has no choice but to confront him. The question is: How will Seth react?
Seth is the third book in the Johnson Family Rules series, and contains a hockey player who wears lace, a cactus Spiked, and a twin brother who knows no boundaries. While Seth can be read as a standalone, it will be best enjoyed as part of the series.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2022
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406 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
May 29, 2023
3*** stars
Is it possible to be totally invested in the two mcs and their romance but super bored by the whole rest of the book?
I picked it up because it was a rec for masc men wearing lace. And I freaking love that.
The story begins with a super hot hookup with a stranger on a Halloween party without revealing their identity and without intending to they slip into their private roles of Dom and sub. Seth hits sub-space pretty hard for the first time ever that night.
Turns out they are both professional hockey players, newly playing for the same NHL team. It takes f* ages and a lot of secret sexting between Pretty (Seth) and Phantom (Mazdon) before they put the pieces together.
Overall, this book was waaaaaay too long for me for the story that was told. I almost didn’t make it ’til the end. There was so much internal musing and stuff happening I gave a shit about. Even the sex came with waaay too many words from their minds. Also, it’s stated that this can be read as a standalone, and plotwise it is, but hell, there were so many side characters that weren’t introduced properly at the beginning I was so confused. Who tf were these people?? It took some time to find out while reading.
I loved Austin, Seth’s twin brother A LOT, tho. He’s so OTT and entertaining and has absolutely no boundaries. When he’s getting a book one day, I might revisit this author.
There are a lot of kinky books to be found in Carly Marie’s backlist and many of them sound really good. I also liked one novella I read before. Maybe if I wasn’t in kind of a slumpy mood and desperately need a fast paced story to keep me hooked, I would’ve liked it a lot more. So, sorry Carly. Really.
Is it possible to be totally invested in the two mcs and their romance but super bored by the whole rest of the book?
I picked it up because it was a rec for masc men wearing lace. And I freaking love that.
The story begins with a super hot hookup with a stranger on a Halloween party without revealing their identity and without intending to they slip into their private roles of Dom and sub. Seth hits sub-space pretty hard for the first time ever that night.
Turns out they are both professional hockey players, newly playing for the same NHL team. It takes f* ages and a lot of secret sexting between Pretty (Seth) and Phantom (Mazdon) before they put the pieces together.
Overall, this book was waaaaaay too long for me for the story that was told. I almost didn’t make it ’til the end. There was so much internal musing and stuff happening I gave a shit about. Even the sex came with waaay too many words from their minds. Also, it’s stated that this can be read as a standalone, and plotwise it is, but hell, there were so many side characters that weren’t introduced properly at the beginning I was so confused. Who tf were these people?? It took some time to find out while reading.
I loved Austin, Seth’s twin brother A LOT, tho. He’s so OTT and entertaining and has absolutely no boundaries. When he’s getting a book one day, I might revisit this author.
There are a lot of kinky books to be found in Carly Marie’s backlist and many of them sound really good. I also liked one novella I read before. Maybe if I wasn’t in kind of a slumpy mood and desperately need a fast paced story to keep me hooked, I would’ve liked it a lot more. So, sorry Carly. Really.
March 18, 2024
Seth Johnson is a hockey star with the Tennessee Grizzlies hockey team. He is also the first-born in the Johnson family of 9 children. The family is unusual in the fact that the mother, father, and grandmother...all are a part owner, and all work at the family owned BDSM club. Also the 6 sons and 3 daughters are all gay. This is the last book in the series although the characters are likely to pop up in other Carly Marie books. Seth and a man, Mazdon Grabowski, meet at a Halloween party. Maz is the newest member of the team but hadn't met his teammates yet. When Maz and Seth meet at the party, they believe it's just a one-time hook-up, so they didn't use their real names, and both were in costume... Maz hadn't played yet with the team so he nor Seath knew who the other was...but neither of them could ever forget the encounter. Seth went by the name "Pretty" and Maz was "Phantom". When they began sending text messages to those names, neither had any idea they were from the two of them who are now playing on the same hockey team. I have loved each of these three books. I hate to see this series end but was so glad I bought all of them so I can reread to my heart's content. Seth and Maz end up getting to know one another, while each thinking they were still receiving text from someone that they met at the party. There were some clues that they "thought" were things that each of them remembered learning from the other...but they didn't learn the identity until more than half-way though the story. In spite of it being nontraditional, their story really works. Seth and Maz are so sweet together, and I liked how they made one another a stronger person and how easily they accepted each other's individual kink. One of the lines that really made a lasting impression on me was when one of Seth's brothers told him, "You have to always be yourself no matter what, because everyone else is already taken". The real possibility of such a totally accepting hockey team, really existing is probably a bit of a stretch, but times are changing and seeing as they are all truly nice guys...it's totally possible. Their camaraderie as a team is all there for everyone to see...and I loved these tough, grown men and their teddy bears.
January 25, 2022
Oh this was so very sweet, wonderful characters and a great story. The family was a bit too much though.
January 15, 2022
4.5
Hokej i satynowa bielizna. To jest to!!
Fantastyczna rodzina.
Fajni przyjaciele.
Do tego fajny romans.
Fajna książka, którą czyta się z przyjemnością.
Hokej i satynowa bielizna. To jest to!!
Fantastyczna rodzina.
Fajni przyjaciele.
Do tego fajny romans.
Fajna książka, którą czyta się z przyjemnością.
January 22, 2022
I was so excited to read this book! Hockey players, lingerie, secret text conversations??? What’s not to love about all that?? Unfortunately I was disappointed. It was still a cute book and maybe it’s me, but I didn’t stay interested in it. I started skimming just to get to the end. Maybe I should have started the series from the beginning because, while at times I found The Johnsons endearing, I was mostly horrified by how… open… they were. Boundaries did not exist! I liked Seth. I thought he was sweet and appreciated how hard he worked. It was lovely how well Mazdon fit with Seth’s family.
December 7, 2022
good
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
***spoilers little here and there***
I’m a keep this review short not much I want to say about this book.
I do want to say before I get started on my review is where is Austin and Wilder book? Because I know about Nathan and Zander book. And finally found Larson book today after reading this one…
Other than that I enjoyed this book. Wasn’t disappointed at all. Like I said I’m a keep it short wasn’t much to to say about this book.
Only thing I can say that I liked how Maz understood Seth needs and wants.
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
***spoilers little here and there***
I’m a keep this review short not much I want to say about this book.
I do want to say before I get started on my review is where is Austin and Wilder book? Because I know about Nathan and Zander book. And finally found Larson book today after reading this one…
Other than that I enjoyed this book. Wasn’t disappointed at all. Like I said I’m a keep it short wasn’t much to to say about this book.
Only thing I can say that I liked how Maz understood Seth needs and wants.
December 25, 2022
This was good for me at about the 50% mark or so.
I really didn't like them not figuring out who each other were for so long in the book. I mean it really started to drag. I did love the interaction with the family. That's always a laugh. But Seth was also very insecure. I didn't get it. Although maybe I should've because most of the other brothers were for a good majority of the book and that seems to be a running theme with this author.
I did like Mazdon. He knew what he wanted and he didn't back away from Seth once he realized all the insecurities. And he didn't back down to the Johnson family.
I really didn't like them not figuring out who each other were for so long in the book. I mean it really started to drag. I did love the interaction with the family. That's always a laugh. But Seth was also very insecure. I didn't get it. Although maybe I should've because most of the other brothers were for a good majority of the book and that seems to be a running theme with this author.
I did like Mazdon. He knew what he wanted and he didn't back away from Seth once he realized all the insecurities. And he didn't back down to the Johnson family.
Read
March 8, 2022Unsurprisingly, this was really good. I didn't expect anything less and really loved Seth's story. I will never understand why I like queer sports romance books when I actually kind of hate any sport in real life. But whatever.
I have now read every book that Carly Marie has written and my single qualm is that for some reason she does not add the plus at the end of the queer acronym. For example, she always use LGBTQ and that's great, but the entire acronym would be awesome but even just LGBTQ+ makes a difference. It always surprises me because she has written a book with a demisexual main character but still doesn't add the plus sign on. As someone who is a member of one of those unforgotten letters of the queer acronym, this is really frustrating for me. I normally would not even mention it in a review but after reaching out and receiving no response from the author, I figured I'd throw it here too. Keeping my fingers crossed that her next release sees a change in this because her books are good, but this one thing would make a big difference.
Anyway this one has two gay hockey players, they meet at a Halloween party and don't know each other's names. They end up texting and messaging and then turns out that they are on the same hockey team. Seth is a long-standing player of this professional hockey team and Mazdon is a new player. I really like that so many of Carly Marie's books are interconnected and I'm a little bit obsessed with the Johnson family. For the kinks, let's see, this one has Dom/sub relationship, orgasm control and impact play. There's also some gender bending and feminine and lacy items.
I have now read every book that Carly Marie has written and my single qualm is that for some reason she does not add the plus at the end of the queer acronym. For example, she always use LGBTQ and that's great, but the entire acronym would be awesome but even just LGBTQ+ makes a difference. It always surprises me because she has written a book with a demisexual main character but still doesn't add the plus sign on. As someone who is a member of one of those unforgotten letters of the queer acronym, this is really frustrating for me. I normally would not even mention it in a review but after reaching out and receiving no response from the author, I figured I'd throw it here too. Keeping my fingers crossed that her next release sees a change in this because her books are good, but this one thing would make a big difference.
Anyway this one has two gay hockey players, they meet at a Halloween party and don't know each other's names. They end up texting and messaging and then turns out that they are on the same hockey team. Seth is a long-standing player of this professional hockey team and Mazdon is a new player. I really like that so many of Carly Marie's books are interconnected and I'm a little bit obsessed with the Johnson family. For the kinks, let's see, this one has Dom/sub relationship, orgasm control and impact play. There's also some gender bending and feminine and lacy items.
January 14, 2022
Seth Johnson is an openly out NHL hockey player. He’s worked hard his entire life to build a great career but he’s never felt comfortable to be his true self. His teammates love and respect him but he’s only ever felt comfortable around his family. Mazdon Grabowski is the new guy on the team. He finally got his chance and all he wants is to focus on his career and succeed.
Both Seth and Mazdon go to a Halloween party and spend a magnificent night together without knowing each other’s true identity. They start talking online without exchanging their real names and their relationship develops and deepens. When the inevitable happens and they figure things out they don’t know what to do even though there is a deep connection between them.
I adore this trope! It’s so entertaining and it was done so so well in this book! The moment every-thing was revealed was epic, I couldn’t stop reading! This book is a standalone but I think it’s more fun if you read the first two companion novels too. The Johnson family is the most fun and accept-ing family ever. I wish they weren’t fictional! Maz and Seth were wonderful together, they had stunning chemistry and I loved how well they treated each other. I also really liked all the members of the hockey team! They were an interesting group and I hope we’ll get books about them too.
I had a great time reading about Seth and Maz!
Both Seth and Mazdon go to a Halloween party and spend a magnificent night together without knowing each other’s true identity. They start talking online without exchanging their real names and their relationship develops and deepens. When the inevitable happens and they figure things out they don’t know what to do even though there is a deep connection between them.
I adore this trope! It’s so entertaining and it was done so so well in this book! The moment every-thing was revealed was epic, I couldn’t stop reading! This book is a standalone but I think it’s more fun if you read the first two companion novels too. The Johnson family is the most fun and accept-ing family ever. I wish they weren’t fictional! Maz and Seth were wonderful together, they had stunning chemistry and I loved how well they treated each other. I also really liked all the members of the hockey team! They were an interesting group and I hope we’ll get books about them too.
I had a great time reading about Seth and Maz!
January 31, 2022
This was definitely the best book in the series (not to say I didn’t enjoy the others, cuz I did!). In truth, I didn't expect to like this one as much, as the others were more focused on Doms which I love. But this just held me the whole way through. In fact, I had to argue with myself at midnight to stop reading and go to sleep. Don’t worry, I woke up early to finish it before work!
The book was plenty steamy, flirty, funny, and sweet in equal parts and the characters were a perfect fit.
Seth and Maz navigate from a one-night stand that definitely means more to an anonymous text relationship that blurs into reality as they discover the person they were falling in love with was actually their teammate and friend. Together they learn to trust in their bond, live proud, and believe that together they can figure it all out. Swoon.
The book was plenty steamy, flirty, funny, and sweet in equal parts and the characters were a perfect fit.
Seth and Maz navigate from a one-night stand that definitely means more to an anonymous text relationship that blurs into reality as they discover the person they were falling in love with was actually their teammate and friend. Together they learn to trust in their bond, live proud, and believe that together they can figure it all out. Swoon.
January 29, 2022
I FLOVED this story! The characters are superbly written and click perfectly together. The storyline is well crafted and if you have read Carly's other books, you'll be thrilled to see her other characters pop up like old friends. Plenty of steamy heat with some kinky elements make this a delicious read.
Read
February 4, 2022Dnf for me. I hadn’t understood from the description that the book is heavily focused on kink. The characters were okay but I also found aspects of their lives and the professional hockey setting to be far-fetched.
February 10, 2022
Each one better
Truly, this series got better with each book. Seth and Mazdon had such great chemistry. This story was just a joy to read. The Johnson family is awesome.
KU, contemporary, book in a series, hockey, fem kink, D/s, light BDSM, spanking kink, lol
Truly, this series got better with each book. Seth and Mazdon had such great chemistry. This story was just a joy to read. The Johnson family is awesome.
KU, contemporary, book in a series, hockey, fem kink, D/s, light BDSM, spanking kink, lol
February 9, 2022
This is by far my favourite of the series. I just loved these characters!
March 18, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
May 7, 2023
I honestly liked this book as much as I liked Zander! Actually if I’m honest so far all 3 books are great but I have a special love for hockey players, sooo!!!
August 4, 2023
I've wanted to read this book since I read Traded and I finally got to it
It did not disappoint and I absolutely loved it... Again 😂
I wonder what's next 👀😂
It did not disappoint and I absolutely loved it... Again 😂
I wonder what's next 👀😂
February 25, 2022
I both loved and disliked this.
I originally DNFd this book for a few weeks. It wasn’t drawing me in and I wasn’t feeling the MCs and the overwhelming list of side characters. It would have been better had I know some of them in advance even though this is a standalone. I wanted there to be a bit more tension and hockey fun. I enjoyed their back and forth texting anonymous relationship. And the reveal was also epic. So my enjoyment ramped up for me there. But it was overall just okay. So much going on I was distracted.
I originally DNFd this book for a few weeks. It wasn’t drawing me in and I wasn’t feeling the MCs and the overwhelming list of side characters. It would have been better had I know some of them in advance even though this is a standalone. I wanted there to be a bit more tension and hockey fun. I enjoyed their back and forth texting anonymous relationship. And the reveal was also epic. So my enjoyment ramped up for me there. But it was overall just okay. So much going on I was distracted.
January 14, 2022
Seth by Carly Marie is the third book in her Johnson Family Rules series. It is the story of two men, both guarded in what they put out to the public, and how they fall in love and deal with what happens when they come out. Seth is the second youngest Johnson sibling (and twin to Austin) and is a major NHL player for the Nashville Grizzlies. He is the first out player in the NHL and is striving to be known for his skills and not that he is gay so he has tried to stay from any relationships that might put him in the press, especially since he has a secret kink. Mazdon is also a hockey player but is in the AHL and gets his big break when one of the Grizzlies’ players gets injured and he is called up. On his first night in Nashville his brother has a Halloween party and he meets Pretty (who is Seth in disguise) and they have a one-night stand that is spectacular from both of their points of view. However, Seth can’t reveal who he is and Mazdon is also afraid of what could happen if this gets out so they reluctantly leave each other. However, Mazdon knows it’s special so he gives Seth a phone number where he can be reached. They can’t forget about each other and after several weeks Seth reaches out to him. The story continues as they text each other under their “disguise” names and learn more about each other until Mazdon figures out who his Pretty is. More ensues as they get together knowing who they are and what they like in private and they finally start an in-person relationship and we get to watch as it grows. If you have read the other Johnson Family Rules books you will know that Seth has a family that is insane and this adds a lot of humor to the story as his brothers and sisters, especially Austin, act as themselves and attempt to help him out with his relationship. Mazdon’s brother, who he is staying with, also adds some hijinks to the story. While reading I learned a lot about hockey that I didn’t know so that made it more interesting for me. This has become one of my favorite series from Ms. Marie and it doesn’t disappoint. I highly recommend it and am looking forward to the new Nashville Grizzlies spin off series that is coming out soon.
February 1, 2022
Seth is the hockey superstar of the family and at a family hosted Halloween party, hooks up with a mystery man which blows his mind. Seth likes silky/lacy undies. But he has worked hard to be a great player not a great gay player so has never had a relationship but can't forget the mystery man. He has a phone number and they start chatting/sexting without revealing who they are.
Maz is a hockey player called up to fill in for an injured player. He also happened to attend a Halloween party where he had a great hook-up and is now chatting/sexting with the mystery man. This goes on for some time, until FINALLY Maz realizes WHO his mystery man is and confronts Seth who has a mini-freak-out but works through it. I have to say I appreciated that Maz realized how stupid they were not to clue in to the hints, when he was on a plane and Seth also had a flight. The coincidences were there. I could visualize the smack to the forehead.
I usually don't like sports stories because the "must stay in the closet" story causes a lot of stress and dirty secrets which frustrates me, but the fact that Seth was already out eased it somewhat and Seth's family's support for him to stop worrying about being the gay player so much that he lived his life in a restricted way.
So on the whole I enjoyed this a great deal. I liked Seth and Maz and I thought it was worked out fairly well once they decided to try getting together. This probably makes more sense as a book if you've read the other books in the series when you meet all of Seth's massive family and their various spouses because there are several scenes with the whole family.
Maz is a hockey player called up to fill in for an injured player. He also happened to attend a Halloween party where he had a great hook-up and is now chatting/sexting with the mystery man. This goes on for some time, until FINALLY Maz realizes WHO his mystery man is and confronts Seth who has a mini-freak-out but works through it. I have to say I appreciated that Maz realized how stupid they were not to clue in to the hints, when he was on a plane and Seth also had a flight. The coincidences were there. I could visualize the smack to the forehead.
I usually don't like sports stories because the "must stay in the closet" story causes a lot of stress and dirty secrets which frustrates me, but the fact that Seth was already out eased it somewhat and Seth's family's support for him to stop worrying about being the gay player so much that he lived his life in a restricted way.
So on the whole I enjoyed this a great deal. I liked Seth and Maz and I thought it was worked out fairly well once they decided to try getting together. This probably makes more sense as a book if you've read the other books in the series when you meet all of Seth's massive family and their various spouses because there are several scenes with the whole family.
January 21, 2022
Right from the start this book grabs your attention and does not let go. Seth (Pretty) and Mason (Phantom) are on 🔥🔥 from the first sentence to the last sentence of the book (wowsers...fanning myself). The heat between Pretty and Phantom continues via text and soon the relationship develops into more than a one night stand. Feelings are getting involved which neither wants but definitely need. Meanwhile Seth and Mazdon are developing their own relationship in person, unaware their alter egos are already deeply involved. The two relationships are developed beautifully without causing conflict among the MCs. And I loved that when the truth comes out, there was no extra drama to add "excitement" to the story. Mazdon was the best thing for Seth, fully accepting and supporting him. Seth bloomed before our eyes, finding his confidence and his true self. And of course among all those sweet and spicy moments, there's also the hilarious moments that just had me cracking up. It can't be helped when the Johnson family is involved (highly recommend you read the previous books to fully enjoy the awesome Johnson family). Love all of the Johnson family members and can't wait to read all of their stories. And even better, now we have a new group of guys to fall in love with..Seth and Mazdon's teammates. They have captured my attention, seems like they have their own interesting secrets. Also very excited to read their stories. Carly Marie creates all these wonderful characters that you just can't help falling in love with!!
July 2, 2022
I've enjoyed every story in this series but this one surpassed my wildest hopes. Seth is a pro hockey player who's secret is that he enjoys pampering his feminine side in lacey panties, garter belts, stockings and more. He meets a gorgeous man dressed as the Phantom of the Opera at a Halloween party and it's no holds barred between the two of them. But each knows they can only be together for one night.
Two months in, the men are now texting and sexting each other and Max knows it's close to time to end this since he is also a pro hockey player, just up from the AHL and playing on Seth's team, though at this point he doesn't know his Pretty from the Halloween party is Seth--until just before Christmas, Seth shares his phone number and May immediately knows who Seth is. I loved the way the author handled this scenario and Maz's choice of how to reveal his identity to Seth.
The whole story was warm and engaging, fast-paced, sexy, humorous and filled with glorious hockey games (I'm a fan, hence...glorious!) There's nothing here I didn't enjoy and I will definitely come back and read it again. Secondary characters consisted of Maz's brother and BIL and Seth's full zany Johnson family brothers, sisters, in-laws and parents.
All three books are worth a read. Don't hesitate.
Two months in, the men are now texting and sexting each other and Max knows it's close to time to end this since he is also a pro hockey player, just up from the AHL and playing on Seth's team, though at this point he doesn't know his Pretty from the Halloween party is Seth--until just before Christmas, Seth shares his phone number and May immediately knows who Seth is. I loved the way the author handled this scenario and Maz's choice of how to reveal his identity to Seth.
The whole story was warm and engaging, fast-paced, sexy, humorous and filled with glorious hockey games (I'm a fan, hence...glorious!) There's nothing here I didn't enjoy and I will definitely come back and read it again. Secondary characters consisted of Maz's brother and BIL and Seth's full zany Johnson family brothers, sisters, in-laws and parents.
All three books are worth a read. Don't hesitate.
September 19, 2023
Seth Johnson has worked hard to not be remembered as the openly gay NHL player and so finding a boyfriend is very much on the back burner. At a Halloween party, he uses it as a perfect time to let loose safe in the knowledge that no one can recognise him not even Phantom, the masked man who knew everything he needed without being told. Mazdon Grabowski had received a surprise call and so he is in Nashville getting a chance as an NHL player. Dragged to a Halloween party he meets Pretty, a man wearing a pink nightie and a blond wig who is desperate for his control but hesitant to share anything personal. Fearing discovery Seth doesn't give Phantom his name or number. When Mazdon discovers his Pretty is none other than Seth Johnson, his teammate and friend, he has no choice but to confront him. The question is: How will Seth react?
I loved this story of the two sportsmen who became teammates then friends and their love which had developed over time. I loved the wise words from Seth's family which helped them all to take control of their lives. Seth was so pretty in his lace and silk plus make-up that I was really happy that he had found someone to accept him completely as he was. This had a fair amount of emotion in the story as well as some angst and tears. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story of the two sportsmen who became teammates then friends and their love which had developed over time. I loved the wise words from Seth's family which helped them all to take control of their lives. Seth was so pretty in his lace and silk plus make-up that I was really happy that he had found someone to accept him completely as he was. This had a fair amount of emotion in the story as well as some angst and tears. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content.
January 20, 2022
This wonderfully inclusive love story starts with a bang (pun fully intended) and was game-on from there.
NHL star Seth (27) and new teammate Mazdon (25) forge a friendship not knowing they secretly occupy each other's fantasies after a scorching, lacy, no-names, in-disguise hookup at a Halloween party.
The lovers reconnect through sweet and steamy texts - love it! - but remain reluctant to disclose their identities for fear it'll impact their high profile careers. (Neither are closeted, it's more an issue of trust, privacy, and unwanted media attention.) It all steadily builds to a big identity reveal and HEA that's so satisfying, with Seth feeling safe and free to fully embrace all aspects of himself.
Family plays a big role in the characters' lives, and the Johnsons are an outspoken, fun, and entertaining bunch, so for maximum enjoyment I highly recommend reading the previous Johnson Family Rules books and getting acquainted with the author's larger crossover universe. I cannot wait for Seth's twin Austin's book, he's a hoot!
Hurrah that this isn't the last we'll see of Seth and Maz's colorful hockey teammates (whose teddy bears superstition is adorable). Toby and Jean-Luc, Trevor, Blaise...I hope they all get stories in the new spin-off series. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
NHL star Seth (27) and new teammate Mazdon (25) forge a friendship not knowing they secretly occupy each other's fantasies after a scorching, lacy, no-names, in-disguise hookup at a Halloween party.
The lovers reconnect through sweet and steamy texts - love it! - but remain reluctant to disclose their identities for fear it'll impact their high profile careers. (Neither are closeted, it's more an issue of trust, privacy, and unwanted media attention.) It all steadily builds to a big identity reveal and HEA that's so satisfying, with Seth feeling safe and free to fully embrace all aspects of himself.
Family plays a big role in the characters' lives, and the Johnsons are an outspoken, fun, and entertaining bunch, so for maximum enjoyment I highly recommend reading the previous Johnson Family Rules books and getting acquainted with the author's larger crossover universe. I cannot wait for Seth's twin Austin's book, he's a hoot!
Hurrah that this isn't the last we'll see of Seth and Maz's colorful hockey teammates (whose teddy bears superstition is adorable). Toby and Jean-Luc, Trevor, Blaise...I hope they all get stories in the new spin-off series. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
January 6, 2024
- an MM hockey’s romance!! one night stand, teammates, secret relationship, secret identities, found family trope, lace k!nk!
- i’m so annoyed with myself that i haven’t read this book yet
- page five and we’re on a sex scene, everyone say thank you Carly
- Toby and Jean-Luc😭😭 my angels i am so excited for your book with Irvin!!!
- THESE IDIOTS ARE SO CLOSE YET SO FAR
- omg sexting was so so hot 🥵
- do you know how many times i screamed at my kindle!!! FIGURE IT OUT GUYS
- Larson and Canyon 🥹
- omg the way Maz found out was honestly priceless
- i did not think it was going to go that way 😭
- Seth being brave!!! i love him so much
- i CANNOT put this book down, it is perfect
- that family is so perfect, the absolute love and chaos that they are
- also seeing Larson and Canyon happy and in love is my Roman Empire
- i love Yuri!!! speaking so much sense even when he doesn’t know the English words
- their love confessions were perfect 🥹
- and perfect epilogue!!!
- i LOVED every second of this book, amazing main characters and side characters, the love just poured off the page from everyone
- Seth’s character development was amazing, i love how Maz was there every step of the way to help him
- and AMAZING sex scenes
- i’m so annoyed with myself that i haven’t read this book yet
- page five and we’re on a sex scene, everyone say thank you Carly
- Toby and Jean-Luc😭😭 my angels i am so excited for your book with Irvin!!!
- THESE IDIOTS ARE SO CLOSE YET SO FAR
- omg sexting was so so hot 🥵
- do you know how many times i screamed at my kindle!!! FIGURE IT OUT GUYS
- Larson and Canyon 🥹
- omg the way Maz found out was honestly priceless
- i did not think it was going to go that way 😭
- Seth being brave!!! i love him so much
- i CANNOT put this book down, it is perfect
- that family is so perfect, the absolute love and chaos that they are
- also seeing Larson and Canyon happy and in love is my Roman Empire
- i love Yuri!!! speaking so much sense even when he doesn’t know the English words
- their love confessions were perfect 🥹
- and perfect epilogue!!!
- i LOVED every second of this book, amazing main characters and side characters, the love just poured off the page from everyone
- Seth’s character development was amazing, i love how Maz was there every step of the way to help him
- and AMAZING sex scenes
January 13, 2022
I think I've been anticipating Seth's book as much I had been anticipating Larson's before it was published. Carly did not disappoint.
Even if you aren't a fan of athletic story lines, this book is amazing. The first encounter between Pretty and Phantom was smoking hot. The hockey is always there because they are NHL players, but it accompanies the love story and doesn't take over.
I love the dichotomy between Seth the hockey player and Seth the submissive. He's such a well written character and you can't help but want him to find his HEA.
Mazdon is also a very well written character. You can feel his regret for having to leave Pretty and wanting to reach out even though both have a need for privacy. He may be a Dom, but he isn't afraid to be vulnerable. He's sweet and almost reminds me of a Daddy.
The texts were fun and of course getting more from Austin was a hoot. I love this little world Carly has created and can't wait for the rest of their stories!
*I received an arc, but all thoughts and opinions are my own*
Even if you aren't a fan of athletic story lines, this book is amazing. The first encounter between Pretty and Phantom was smoking hot. The hockey is always there because they are NHL players, but it accompanies the love story and doesn't take over.
I love the dichotomy between Seth the hockey player and Seth the submissive. He's such a well written character and you can't help but want him to find his HEA.
Mazdon is also a very well written character. You can feel his regret for having to leave Pretty and wanting to reach out even though both have a need for privacy. He may be a Dom, but he isn't afraid to be vulnerable. He's sweet and almost reminds me of a Daddy.
The texts were fun and of course getting more from Austin was a hoot. I love this little world Carly has created and can't wait for the rest of their stories!
*I received an arc, but all thoughts and opinions are my own*
January 18, 2025
I liked this one much more than I thought. It's part of a larger series (which I haven't read) so the references to other characters went over my head (and weren't that interesting). I also typically don't like feminization books, but the way this one was written felt true to the character and less like a fetish to be exploited for the reader, which I appreciated.
The premise of this one is a bit flimsy - the two MMCs should have figured out each other's identities way earlier - and honestly neither one was wearing a costume/mask that made them exceptionally unrecognizable. BUT... the way it was written let me suspend disbelief and get into the plot.
The slow burn of them getting to know each other via text while not knowing their true identities was great and super hot.
I also enjoyed the light BDSM here and honestly there could have been more of it.
The hockey aspect wasn't particularly well researched (its obvious the author isn't a true fan) but wasn't bad enough to make me upset.
In general, I thought both characters were well written and the plot was executed well.
The premise of this one is a bit flimsy - the two MMCs should have figured out each other's identities way earlier - and honestly neither one was wearing a costume/mask that made them exceptionally unrecognizable. BUT... the way it was written let me suspend disbelief and get into the plot.
The slow burn of them getting to know each other via text while not knowing their true identities was great and super hot.
I also enjoyed the light BDSM here and honestly there could have been more of it.
The hockey aspect wasn't particularly well researched (its obvious the author isn't a true fan) but wasn't bad enough to make me upset.
In general, I thought both characters were well written and the plot was executed well.
November 28, 2022
Seth Johnson came out as gay on the eve of the NHL draft. He's finally reached a place in his career where every article or interview on him doesn't lead off with "the first outwardly gay hockey player". He's the alternate captain of the Nashville Grizzlies, and at the top of his game. A chance encounter at his brother's Halloween party allows him to indulge in his lingerie loving, submissive side.
Mazdon Grabowski can't forget the Pretty man he met at a Halloween costume party. But he's finally been called up to the NHL and can't blow his chances by being in an open gay relationship.
The two begin a clandestine, anonymous sexting affair. And the book is halfway done before each realizes who their partner is.
It was a sweet dance of an affair. There was definite chemistry between the pair. And the Johnson family and other secondaries were very well written. This book leaves you wanting more. And there are two more Johnson boys to go!
Mazdon Grabowski can't forget the Pretty man he met at a Halloween costume party. But he's finally been called up to the NHL and can't blow his chances by being in an open gay relationship.
The two begin a clandestine, anonymous sexting affair. And the book is halfway done before each realizes who their partner is.
It was a sweet dance of an affair. There was definite chemistry between the pair. And the Johnson family and other secondaries were very well written. This book leaves you wanting more. And there are two more Johnson boys to go!
January 20, 2022
Seth & Mazdon simply brilliant 💖💖
Oh Wow...... Been waiting for Seths book and it doesn't disappoint especially with the make-up and lingerie which I love. Seth is NHL hockey player and openly out but hides is true self from everyone but is family until a Halloween party and he meets phantom who calls him pretty these two spend one amazing night together then part not knowing each others identity they start messaging online without giving names and their relationship developes. Mazdon who's the new guy on the team just wants to focus on is career and get on but little does he know he's a lot closer than he thinks to one of them and when they figure things out and realise who's who the deep connection between them is to hard to ignore these two are simply made for each so beautiful and amazing loved it.... 💖💖
Oh Wow...... Been waiting for Seths book and it doesn't disappoint especially with the make-up and lingerie which I love. Seth is NHL hockey player and openly out but hides is true self from everyone but is family until a Halloween party and he meets phantom who calls him pretty these two spend one amazing night together then part not knowing each others identity they start messaging online without giving names and their relationship developes. Mazdon who's the new guy on the team just wants to focus on is career and get on but little does he know he's a lot closer than he thinks to one of them and when they figure things out and realise who's who the deep connection between them is to hard to ignore these two are simply made for each so beautiful and amazing loved it.... 💖💖
January 22, 2022
An unforgettable Halloween hookup leads to Seth reaching out to the man he knows only as Phantom. Phantom who has fulfilled so many of his fantasies and allowed his love of lace to shine through.
Phantom who is slowly getting him to open up and be the true him whilst still being the best hockey player he can be.
Maz is finally getting a chance to be in the big leagues. But with it came an encounter with his Pretty. The man whom he cannot let go of even though his career is just kicking off.
This was a fantastic addition to the series. I loved how well these characters complimented each other. Their kinks aligned perfectly and their passion was scorching. The addition of the rest of the Johnsons in this story was hilarious and their teammates enriched the story even more. I’m so eager for more of this series.
Phantom who is slowly getting him to open up and be the true him whilst still being the best hockey player he can be.
Maz is finally getting a chance to be in the big leagues. But with it came an encounter with his Pretty. The man whom he cannot let go of even though his career is just kicking off.
This was a fantastic addition to the series. I loved how well these characters complimented each other. Their kinks aligned perfectly and their passion was scorching. The addition of the rest of the Johnsons in this story was hilarious and their teammates enriched the story even more. I’m so eager for more of this series.
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