Enemies to lovers hockey goalies on the same team. Oh yeah, I was rubbing my hands in glee to see how this would turn out. Why are hockey stories so hot? ;-)

We met Ryu Mori in the previous book as Tristan's BFF. A Japanese American hockey goalie with the stoicism and drive to achieve greatness as his family expects. He's finally looking at a year of starting goalie when the most unexpected happens.

Emmitt Armstrong is a black man who has just had the best year of his career in the minors. Celebrating the win with his teammates expecting to be called up to his NHL team for the following season he gets a shocking surprise when he's traded to rival team.

Before he can even resign himself to being backup goalie, the new coaches announce that he's in the running for the starting position. With their minds and emotions in upheaval, Emmett and Ryu also find their personalities at opposite ends.

Sparks fly from the start between these two. It's a pleasure to watch as they catch fire and create an unusual but heartwarming relationship between these two MCs.

I found it very stressful to see what their coaches put them through. I was humbled by their love of the game and respect for each other. I cheered as race, ethnicity, sexuality and culture were challenged and acknowledged in a sports setting.

This is another well done sports romance for this author duo. It can easily be read as a stand alone.


Review ARC graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley