By Rachel Reid
Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Pub date: 3/4/2025
Blurb
After moving back to his hometown ten years ago, Riley Tuck thought he had left his major league hockey career—and his broken heart—far behind. But when an unexpected tragedy strikes, it brings ex-teammate and former best friend with benefits Adam Sheppard back into his life.
Coming to the small town of Avery River, Nova Scotia, might have been a mistake. Adam’s not sure he’ll ever win back Riley’s trust after the way they left things—and the attention he’s getting as a huge hockey star isn’t exactly helping. Yet the chemistry that crackles between them is undeniable, even now.
As Adam helps Riley navigate his grief, long-buried feelings start to resurface. But they’ll have to square off with their complicated past if they’re going to have a real shot at a new beginning.
Category: Contemporary Romance
Read if you Like:
⛸️ MM Romance
⛸️ Retired hockey players
⛸️ Second chance
⛸️ Mental health rep
My Thoughts:
This story is beautifully written and I was so invested in Riley and Adam getting a second chance. At the same time, I found their history and the lack of acceptance of mental health issues and queer relationships in sports heartbreaking. That one combined with Riley's recent loss of his father made this one a really emotional read.
I tend to be a bit more of a low angst romance reader so this wasn't a perfect fit for me but i did love the story and am glad I read it. I think if you like an emotional romance and are a fan of MM this is a must read! While both main characters are ex hockey players we don't see a lot of hockey except in some flashbacks. I know many people (like me) don't read sports romance for the actual sports though!
Thanks to Harlequin Romance for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
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