What a fun and informative read?! Has this book single-handedly turned me into a hockey fan? Maybe only if I can watch the St Louis Mules play. Loved the chemistry between Ryan & Brandon as players, and friends. Loved how it extended beyond themselves into the team. Ryan is hilarious, genuinely. Also, Ander! He’s such an incredible brother to Brandon! In regard to the spice, it fits within the narrative, mostly mild but there’s spicier moments. -Also, OMFG!!! The after bar scene has my jaw on the ground. I can’t even react. But Ryan, You hockey player you! -Oh how I love the precision Ryan has when it comes to his game. It’s a joy to read about. So much so, I’m clapping in the airport. Ha!

4.75 ⭐️ I was laughing and crying through more than half of this book, which is always the sign of a great read.

Three and a half stars. Brandon Bouchard is living in the shadow of his gregarious older brother Ander who is the goalie for the Buffalo Blizzards, the team that have already won the Stanley Cup once, while Brandon is still playing college hockey. Then his big chance comes, six weeks before the end of the NHL season he's called up to play for the St Louis Mules. Only problem is ... its the team where Ryan Christianson plays, Brandon's crush when he was fourteen years old and Ryan was billeted with Brandon's parents. Already apprehensive and scared that he will be sent back to the college team before he's even played a game, or worse that he screws up so badly that he's sent down in disgrace, things don't go well when the first thing out of Ryan's mouth is 'Baby Bouchard' - now he's got an embarrassing nickname straight from day one. For his part, Ryan has worked hard to hide the fact that he is gay from his teammates and the attraction he feels to Baby Bouchard should be avoided at all costs ... shouldn't it? But with Anders telling Brandon to call Ryan, and telling Ryan to look after his baby brother it seems like family and the fates are bringing them together. I enjoyed this, but not as much as The Kennedy Effect, maybe I subconsciously felt that calling him 'Baby' Brandon gave too much of a older guy/younger guy vibe when they are only a few years apart in age? Anyway, lots of hockey stuff that went right over my head, a chance to see Connor and Gavin again, and the Mules are a great team. Can't wait to see what the hints at the end of the book could mean for the next book. I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. Available on Kindle Unlimited.

As a follow-up to The Kennedy Rule, this is fantastic. I loved seeing the a semi-continuation of that story in the background of Brandon and Ryan's story, especially more of Coach Chris. I LOVED the vibes and dynamics of the Mules as a team. I get really strong Centaurs feelings from them and absolutely adore their inclusivity amidst rampant homophobia in the NHL. And I love Brandon, as a character. He's adorable and his growth in the book is lovely to experience. His family dynamics are a dream, too. I want a Mamma B in my life. This is a sweet hockey romance that doesn't rely on the spice but on the connection between all the characters--and not just the main love interests. I also really appreciated the descriptions of the actual hockey that was played. I am not a hockey connoisseur so can't vouch for whether it was accurate but it was definitely gripping! I was 'on the edge of my seat' invested in every game. This is perfect if you like less spice (though there's still some) and more hockey in your hockey romances but with a dash of Centaurs vibes.