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Delay of Game #5
Offensive Edge
Theo Lane finally found his place in the NHL. The beginning of his career had been a struggle, especially compared to Rowan Foley, generational talent and his ex not-quite-boyfriend. It took eight years from draft day, but Theo was finally on a team that respected him. A team that was lighting it up. The San Jose Serpents had a real chance that year. Everything was looking up.
Until Rowan signed a contract with the Serpents. Rowan may be a ‘generational talent,’ but he was also on a shitty team. The Texas Victory had only made the playoffs once in Rowan’s eight years playing in the NHL, and there was no hope in sight. It was time to move on. He was wistful for the time he spent in junior playing with Theo, the boy his heart hadn’t let go of just yet, even if they had fallen out of touch. Rowan wasn’t expecting Theo to come running back into his arms, but he hadn’t expected the downright hostile welcome he got from him, either. Eight years was a long time, and Rowan was realizing he had made some mistakes. Theo and his still-broken heart had resolved to keep their relationship 100% on the ice, where they played together like a dream. But the season was long, and there was a reason they had been so obsessed with each other when they had been Flint Jaguars back in junior. Rowan always worked hard on the ice, but can he work hard enough off of it to win Theo back? Offensive Edge is a 57k second chance MM hockey romance with a happily ever after.
Until Rowan signed a contract with the Serpents. Rowan may be a ‘generational talent,’ but he was also on a shitty team. The Texas Victory had only made the playoffs once in Rowan’s eight years playing in the NHL, and there was no hope in sight. It was time to move on. He was wistful for the time he spent in junior playing with Theo, the boy his heart hadn’t let go of just yet, even if they had fallen out of touch. Rowan wasn’t expecting Theo to come running back into his arms, but he hadn’t expected the downright hostile welcome he got from him, either. Eight years was a long time, and Rowan was realizing he had made some mistakes. Theo and his still-broken heart had resolved to keep their relationship 100% on the ice, where they played together like a dream. But the season was long, and there was a reason they had been so obsessed with each other when they had been Flint Jaguars back in junior. Rowan always worked hard on the ice, but can he work hard enough off of it to win Theo back? Offensive Edge is a 57k second chance MM hockey romance with a happily ever after.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
100 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
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August 23, 2023
“If I believe in anything, it’s us, alright?”
Theo took a deep breath and nodded. “Us,” he repeated.
i don’t know what magic is in this authors writing, because the books i was expecting to hate, i enjoyed, and the books i expected to enjoy, i was bored. while i don’t think this is on the same level as books 1 and 2, i found myself still feeling different to others who have read this.
i read all five books back to back, and while i didn’t love them all, i have no regrets on impulsively and randomly hopping on this series. book 1 remains my favorite, with book 2 surprisingly following in second, and this third one has become the top three.
i don’t have many mutuals who have read this, but from what i gathered, this story was full of miscommunication.
which is why i went into this hesitantly.
both characters have their necessary, long-awaited Talk at approximately the 52% mark. the first half is spent with hard glances, frowns, and ignored looks. theo is mad at rowan for reasons rowan doesn’t know; rowan wants to approach theo but doesn’t know how. in my opinion, rowan was the one who really tried, but theo kept ignoring him or making him the bad guy only, even though rowan was quite literally confused and unsure how to approach the situation because theo never really gave him a chance. their reasoning behind why they had their eight year separation after being called to their first professional team were nothing new, still petty ones filled with assumptions and simple miscommunication on (admittedly) both sides. still, while this does make the first half of the story, both men come to an agreement that both could’ve made better decisions.
and i think because the first two books had even more miscommunication and some silent treatment, this one didn’t feel like the the worst. the story offers absolutely nothing new, since this is second chance formed through miscommunication, which is unfortunately how many second chances romances go by. but when rowan and theo talk their feelings out, admitting their faults and realizing they could have, in fact, avoided this drama, they become friends again, connecting differently but agreeing to bond again. this saved us readers from even more drama, giving us a new friendship full of firsts and older memories instead. this really helped build up the relationship, since the second half is entirely spent between them going from friends and teammates to lovers again. there was no longer any silent treatment and unsure feelings. we see them develop a new relationship between each other, which i did appreciate. even though their discussion doesn’t make it till the second half, their friendship becomes tentative before that, so it still gives us more room to see the potential of a growing friendship despite the previous and future circumstances.
one of my favorite tropes is where mc1 takes care of mc2, and/or vice versa. both rowan and theo rekindle some feelings this way, where theo first takes care of rowan because he’s sick (kind of like the flu). theo begrudgingly agrees, but isn’t a big fan at first. there’s some argument and push and pull because he’s still upset with rowan, but he also can’t bring himself to not help his teammate. chronologically, this is the first scene where theo and rowan sort of make up, talking without a bad vibe around them.
“Am I hallucinating this?”
“What?”
“You smiling at me?”
“Shut up,” Theo said, a soft dismissal. “Just fulfilling duties from the captain.”
“I’m not kidding.”
“I’m glad you haven’t died on my watch. Coach would have my head.”
“Tooth hole is still cute,” Rowan said, reaching out to poke at the gap between Theo’s teeth like he did when they still loved each other.
“Alright, bud, focus on the soup, and not spilling it, please.”
shortly after, rowan takes care of theo after theo got busted pretty badly on the ice during a match. rowan says he owes him for what theo did but in reality rowan still likes theo, so of course he offers his support and help.
“What is happening?” Theo asked, downing half of his juice.
“We have a travel day. Tomorrow we play the Fame.”
“No, I mean, like, this.” He motioned between him and Rowan.
“You were hurt.”
“I gathered.”
“You were hurt, and...it wasn’t okay with me.”
“I am...really confused about this.”
“Okay.”
“Are you not?”
“I haven’t been thinking about it too hard. You needed someone. I’m fine with that being me. I want that to be me.”
“My head hurts too much to think this through.”
there’s still a little bit of awkwardness, since both young men are unsure where their comaredrie really lies, but they also can’t deny their true feelings any longer, even if they’re somewhat able to hide them. this is sort of used as a developing tool for their relationship. there’s more telling versus showing when it came to their new friendship, such as us being told what they’ve done together. in a way, this does help get a bigger understanding of where they are, as teammates and individuals with mutual feelings. just because they’ve acknowledged how they feel didn’t mean they went back to how old times were, forgetting the long gap in their life, and instead decided to fill it in a little before making more progress. i wholeheartedly appraciate this, since it gives a more realistic approach to their relationship. just because they were best friends before, they still spend eight years apart, not to mention how they hadn’t talked since then, and theo basically hated rowan even if he says he never did.
however, my enjoyment was clearly not that high, as seen by an average 3-star rating. i’ll say that i struggled a lot with the story at the beginning that i began to skim after the first quarter. i found myself uninterested and bored, with the characters and what the story was trying to get to. but upon my small skim fest, i made it to the 47% mark or so and came across some quotes that made me rethink my decision because i knew i would come to appreciate the scenes more had i read them with more proper care and interest. so i shamelessly went back to the 32% mark, because that’s where i started skimming; after chapter 13. and boy do i NOT regret my decision. i would have ended up losing important details. it really took some patience because the boredom didn’t last very long. however, i became bored again more towards the end, and it got to the point where i just wanted the story to end.
also, i do think the author could’ve done with more development, added more moments between the two to show a tentative care before they gave in to each other. even though i do think the author didn’t just make them forgive and forget right then and there, it still didn’t feel like there was enough development on its own. it would’ve helped to have added more uncertainty, more confusion, a slower journey of forgiveness. rowan and theo become friends again, sure, and they wanna make up for the lost time, but i still think the journey of forgiveness lacked substance. it felt a little too quick, as if the two didn’t have an 8-year long separation, after going from being best friends/secret lovers to not talking at all, to theo literally avoiding rowan at all costs despite living together, to the two suddenly admitting they “wanna do this right” (THIS as in get back together). a second chance romance doesn’t work that well for me without enough apprehension. just because they finally came to this realization of who they mean for each other and how they wanna do something about it does not make me believe their really long separation and lack of communication could have been solved so smoothly. one moment theo was avoiding rowan, and the next he accepted his avoidance was a bit redundant. it was not a full 360, but it still left me wondering why and how these thoughts came to be. as the reader, i can understand it on a logical level, but i failed to see it through a sympathizing perspective. i appreciate any and all moments post-feelings admittance, but i still didn’t think there was enough pre-feelings, if that makes sense.
and lastly, although i already said i think the reasoning behind the miscommunication was nothing new, i couldn’t connect with theo as much as rowan. to an extent, theo’s reasoning and thinking process made reasonable sense, considering his age, but i think holding a grudge like that for eight years was too much. admittedly, he’s the one who stops talking to rowan, even though rowan tried reaching out. long story short: theo basically accuses rowan of “abandoning” him when he goes to texas. theo basically couldn’t take all the talk of theo’s success anymore, projecting his jealousy and insecurities (at least that’s how i saw it) onto theo, and using that as an excuse to no longer talk to him. he blames rowan for their friendship ending, accusing rowan of not caring enough. rowan, thriving with his dream career, reaches out to theo, and while he does apparently talk about himself a lot, he still makes room to catch up on theo and what he’s been up to. however, he stops reaching out when he notices he’s not getting back responses, which is completely valid. i myself have done this with friendships, where i feel like the friend isn’t reciprocating and the friendship isn’t a two way thing. then theo tells rowan he basically no longer cared about him, claiming he abandoned him by going to texas, which i found super selfish because they both knew this was coming. rowan was bound to go to a big team, so instead of feeling happy and proud, theo doesn’t find it fair. how i saw it, even if rowan could have made better approaches in talking to theo, he still tried, and wanted to be there for theo however he could. but when he saw his so called best friend wasn’t giving him the same energy, he stopped talking, assuming theo needed space and would get back to rowan when the right time came. of course this led to miscommunication because they both thought different things. i think theo was the most at fault, completely. rowan is definitely the type of person that would have been open to being confronted, so if theo had said something, rowan would have known. but how was rowan supposed to know if he did something wrong when he was being ignored?
anyway, the story itself was enjoyable enough, but sadly this installment will not be a memorable one. the first two books definitely own a special place in my heart, but i’ll give it to this author for captivating me in her world and with her characters one way or another. i’m really excited for book 6 releasing next month (9/12). i didn’t find myself super annoyed with felix as others have, and i love a good neighbors to lovers story, so i’m excited.
Theo took a deep breath and nodded. “Us,” he repeated.
i don’t know what magic is in this authors writing, because the books i was expecting to hate, i enjoyed, and the books i expected to enjoy, i was bored. while i don’t think this is on the same level as books 1 and 2, i found myself still feeling different to others who have read this.
i read all five books back to back, and while i didn’t love them all, i have no regrets on impulsively and randomly hopping on this series. book 1 remains my favorite, with book 2 surprisingly following in second, and this third one has become the top three.
i don’t have many mutuals who have read this, but from what i gathered, this story was full of miscommunication.
which is why i went into this hesitantly.
both characters have their necessary, long-awaited Talk at approximately the 52% mark. the first half is spent with hard glances, frowns, and ignored looks. theo is mad at rowan for reasons rowan doesn’t know; rowan wants to approach theo but doesn’t know how. in my opinion, rowan was the one who really tried, but theo kept ignoring him or making him the bad guy only, even though rowan was quite literally confused and unsure how to approach the situation because theo never really gave him a chance. their reasoning behind why they had their eight year separation after being called to their first professional team were nothing new, still petty ones filled with assumptions and simple miscommunication on (admittedly) both sides. still, while this does make the first half of the story, both men come to an agreement that both could’ve made better decisions.
and i think because the first two books had even more miscommunication and some silent treatment, this one didn’t feel like the the worst. the story offers absolutely nothing new, since this is second chance formed through miscommunication, which is unfortunately how many second chances romances go by. but when rowan and theo talk their feelings out, admitting their faults and realizing they could have, in fact, avoided this drama, they become friends again, connecting differently but agreeing to bond again. this saved us readers from even more drama, giving us a new friendship full of firsts and older memories instead. this really helped build up the relationship, since the second half is entirely spent between them going from friends and teammates to lovers again. there was no longer any silent treatment and unsure feelings. we see them develop a new relationship between each other, which i did appreciate. even though their discussion doesn’t make it till the second half, their friendship becomes tentative before that, so it still gives us more room to see the potential of a growing friendship despite the previous and future circumstances.
one of my favorite tropes is where mc1 takes care of mc2, and/or vice versa. both rowan and theo rekindle some feelings this way, where theo first takes care of rowan because he’s sick (kind of like the flu). theo begrudgingly agrees, but isn’t a big fan at first. there’s some argument and push and pull because he’s still upset with rowan, but he also can’t bring himself to not help his teammate. chronologically, this is the first scene where theo and rowan sort of make up, talking without a bad vibe around them.
“Am I hallucinating this?”
“What?”
“You smiling at me?”
“Shut up,” Theo said, a soft dismissal. “Just fulfilling duties from the captain.”
“I’m not kidding.”
“I’m glad you haven’t died on my watch. Coach would have my head.”
“Tooth hole is still cute,” Rowan said, reaching out to poke at the gap between Theo’s teeth like he did when they still loved each other.
“Alright, bud, focus on the soup, and not spilling it, please.”
shortly after, rowan takes care of theo after theo got busted pretty badly on the ice during a match. rowan says he owes him for what theo did but in reality rowan still likes theo, so of course he offers his support and help.
“What is happening?” Theo asked, downing half of his juice.
“We have a travel day. Tomorrow we play the Fame.”
“No, I mean, like, this.” He motioned between him and Rowan.
“You were hurt.”
“I gathered.”
“You were hurt, and...it wasn’t okay with me.”
“I am...really confused about this.”
“Okay.”
“Are you not?”
“I haven’t been thinking about it too hard. You needed someone. I’m fine with that being me. I want that to be me.”
“My head hurts too much to think this through.”
there’s still a little bit of awkwardness, since both young men are unsure where their comaredrie really lies, but they also can’t deny their true feelings any longer, even if they’re somewhat able to hide them. this is sort of used as a developing tool for their relationship. there’s more telling versus showing when it came to their new friendship, such as us being told what they’ve done together. in a way, this does help get a bigger understanding of where they are, as teammates and individuals with mutual feelings. just because they’ve acknowledged how they feel didn’t mean they went back to how old times were, forgetting the long gap in their life, and instead decided to fill it in a little before making more progress. i wholeheartedly appraciate this, since it gives a more realistic approach to their relationship. just because they were best friends before, they still spend eight years apart, not to mention how they hadn’t talked since then, and theo basically hated rowan even if he says he never did.
however, my enjoyment was clearly not that high, as seen by an average 3-star rating. i’ll say that i struggled a lot with the story at the beginning that i began to skim after the first quarter. i found myself uninterested and bored, with the characters and what the story was trying to get to. but upon my small skim fest, i made it to the 47% mark or so and came across some quotes that made me rethink my decision because i knew i would come to appreciate the scenes more had i read them with more proper care and interest. so i shamelessly went back to the 32% mark, because that’s where i started skimming; after chapter 13. and boy do i NOT regret my decision. i would have ended up losing important details. it really took some patience because the boredom didn’t last very long. however, i became bored again more towards the end, and it got to the point where i just wanted the story to end.
also, i do think the author could’ve done with more development, added more moments between the two to show a tentative care before they gave in to each other. even though i do think the author didn’t just make them forgive and forget right then and there, it still didn’t feel like there was enough development on its own. it would’ve helped to have added more uncertainty, more confusion, a slower journey of forgiveness. rowan and theo become friends again, sure, and they wanna make up for the lost time, but i still think the journey of forgiveness lacked substance. it felt a little too quick, as if the two didn’t have an 8-year long separation, after going from being best friends/secret lovers to not talking at all, to theo literally avoiding rowan at all costs despite living together, to the two suddenly admitting they “wanna do this right” (THIS as in get back together). a second chance romance doesn’t work that well for me without enough apprehension. just because they finally came to this realization of who they mean for each other and how they wanna do something about it does not make me believe their really long separation and lack of communication could have been solved so smoothly. one moment theo was avoiding rowan, and the next he accepted his avoidance was a bit redundant. it was not a full 360, but it still left me wondering why and how these thoughts came to be. as the reader, i can understand it on a logical level, but i failed to see it through a sympathizing perspective. i appreciate any and all moments post-feelings admittance, but i still didn’t think there was enough pre-feelings, if that makes sense.
and lastly, although i already said i think the reasoning behind the miscommunication was nothing new, i couldn’t connect with theo as much as rowan. to an extent, theo’s reasoning and thinking process made reasonable sense, considering his age, but i think holding a grudge like that for eight years was too much. admittedly, he’s the one who stops talking to rowan, even though rowan tried reaching out. long story short: theo basically accuses rowan of “abandoning” him when he goes to texas. theo basically couldn’t take all the talk of theo’s success anymore, projecting his jealousy and insecurities (at least that’s how i saw it) onto theo, and using that as an excuse to no longer talk to him. he blames rowan for their friendship ending, accusing rowan of not caring enough. rowan, thriving with his dream career, reaches out to theo, and while he does apparently talk about himself a lot, he still makes room to catch up on theo and what he’s been up to. however, he stops reaching out when he notices he’s not getting back responses, which is completely valid. i myself have done this with friendships, where i feel like the friend isn’t reciprocating and the friendship isn’t a two way thing. then theo tells rowan he basically no longer cared about him, claiming he abandoned him by going to texas, which i found super selfish because they both knew this was coming. rowan was bound to go to a big team, so instead of feeling happy and proud, theo doesn’t find it fair. how i saw it, even if rowan could have made better approaches in talking to theo, he still tried, and wanted to be there for theo however he could. but when he saw his so called best friend wasn’t giving him the same energy, he stopped talking, assuming theo needed space and would get back to rowan when the right time came. of course this led to miscommunication because they both thought different things. i think theo was the most at fault, completely. rowan is definitely the type of person that would have been open to being confronted, so if theo had said something, rowan would have known. but how was rowan supposed to know if he did something wrong when he was being ignored?
anyway, the story itself was enjoyable enough, but sadly this installment will not be a memorable one. the first two books definitely own a special place in my heart, but i’ll give it to this author for captivating me in her world and with her characters one way or another. i’m really excited for book 6 releasing next month (9/12). i didn’t find myself super annoyed with felix as others have, and i love a good neighbors to lovers story, so i’m excited.
February 1, 2024
I loved this so much! I am kind of weird about second chance romance and I rarely like it, but I really loved this one. I thought it was so well done. Really got me emotional and so hard to put down. I have really enjoyed this entire series so I guess at this point I can say I will read any book this author writes.
December 9, 2024
I do love a good second chance romance, especially when there's some serious animosity and pining involved!
I did like that the character's behaviour felt like it did change between flashbacks and present day. You could tell they had both grown up in the time they had apart and had gone from seventeen year olds who met the right person at the wrong time, to twenty six year olds who finally had the chance to be together the way they always wanted to.
Theo was definitely more immature though with his little tantrums and flouncing off, but Rowan was so hockey focused he hadn't even realised why Theo had stopped talking to him and begun to hate him... I just wanted to knock their heads together for the first half of the book because they were exasperating, but also really cute while they were at it.
I really loved the ending though and it felt very fairytale and romantic, which felt so perfect for them.
I did like that the character's behaviour felt like it did change between flashbacks and present day. You could tell they had both grown up in the time they had apart and had gone from seventeen year olds who met the right person at the wrong time, to twenty six year olds who finally had the chance to be together the way they always wanted to.
Theo was definitely more immature though with his little tantrums and flouncing off, but Rowan was so hockey focused he hadn't even realised why Theo had stopped talking to him and begun to hate him... I just wanted to knock their heads together for the first half of the book because they were exasperating, but also really cute while they were at it.
I really loved the ending though and it felt very fairytale and romantic, which felt so perfect for them.
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June 30, 2023Offensive Edge is a second chance romance of Theo Lane and Rowan Foley, two hockey players who met during their juniors. The two had more than friends type of situationship but with the upcoming NHL draft there was a lot of pressure on both to be selected. Rowan ends up being picked first and heads right off to an NHL team meanwhile Theo’s road to the NHL is not as direct but he does also eventually get there. With Rowan in the NHL their friendship begins to fade away. They are forced to face one another when Rowan signs to the same team as Theo and play together after almost a decade of being apart.
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes…but unfortunately it just didn’t work for me here. I want to preface this review by saying that Hannah Henry is truly one of my favorite authors currently and prior to this book, this series has been 4-5 stars for me and I absolutely will be reading the next and final book - Theo and Rowan just were two characters I didn’t connect with.
I think my main issue was I couldn’t really grasp why the two stopped talking in the first place. First, Theo finds a letter from Rowan the night of the draft (which is never addressed after that first chapter I don’t think) and assumes it’s a goodbye. Then, Rowan was constantly reaching out during his first season, and while I do understand Theo’s bitterness that Rowan was living their NHL dream while he wasn’t, I don’t think Theo needed to be as mean as he was to Rowan when he first signed with the Serpents. Their getting back together arc also just didn’t feel very romantic? I wasn’t entirely sure why either of them liked the other in the first place. I think second chance romance needs a little bit of angst for it to hit just right and this book was too light that it didn’t have that yearning kind of second chance.
*I received an arc and this is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2023
Another sweet, easy to read hockey romance from Hannah Henry!
Rowan Foley is a hockey superstar and in his pursuit of the Cup, he finds himself on a new team for the first time in his professional career. And that team just so happens to have his ex-best friend/first love, Theo Lane. While hockey brings them together now, it tore them apart in the past, leaving them both heartbroken and lonely while trying to figure out how to make it in their careers alone.
Rowan and Theo are thrown together both on the ice and at home when Rowan moves in with Theo and the team captain. Their animosity is palpable but circumstances arise and force them to talk and let each other in again even after years apart. These two were such good friends when they played together in juniors and once they got past their initial hurt, they realized they both couldn’t avoid their feelings anymore. This was a slow burn but was full of sweet moments of reconnection and familiarity that made my heart happy and made me smile. Rowan and Theo have known each other for so long that they just inherently knew each other, what they needed and how they could support each other - they just fit together so well and I really enjoyed their story!
This Delay of Game series is so much fun to read and I can’t wait to see what Felix’s story has in store for us next!
Rowan Foley is a hockey superstar and in his pursuit of the Cup, he finds himself on a new team for the first time in his professional career. And that team just so happens to have his ex-best friend/first love, Theo Lane. While hockey brings them together now, it tore them apart in the past, leaving them both heartbroken and lonely while trying to figure out how to make it in their careers alone.
Rowan and Theo are thrown together both on the ice and at home when Rowan moves in with Theo and the team captain. Their animosity is palpable but circumstances arise and force them to talk and let each other in again even after years apart. These two were such good friends when they played together in juniors and once they got past their initial hurt, they realized they both couldn’t avoid their feelings anymore. This was a slow burn but was full of sweet moments of reconnection and familiarity that made my heart happy and made me smile. Rowan and Theo have known each other for so long that they just inherently knew each other, what they needed and how they could support each other - they just fit together so well and I really enjoyed their story!
This Delay of Game series is so much fun to read and I can’t wait to see what Felix’s story has in store for us next!
June 13, 2023
Theo and Rowan were best friends. Inseparable on and off the ice. They had the same dreams and hopes for their futures. Roman's wishes were answered a little sooner than Theo's and that drove them apart. Partially due to the distance and lack of time that the NHL provided for Rowan to keep their relationship going, but mostly because Rowan is terrible with feelings and didn't realize how much he was hurting Theo.
After 8 years apart, the dynamic duo is back together. Theo is holding a grudge and Rowan is hoping for a spark both in the game and in his life. Luckily the team Captain, Vic thrusts the two of them into a forced proximity situation, by inviting Rowan to move in with him and Theo.
If you love hockey and second chances this is the book for you. Filled with lots of time on the ice, fun teammates, and awkward moments.
Theo and Rowan definitely have a place in my heart. It was so much fun to go on their journey. Theo couldn't hold tight to the grudge for long when Rowan was always around to remind him why they were so good together before and why they can be so good together again.
I can't wait to see what Hannah Henry has up her sleeve for the next book! (No spoilers from me as to who it will be about!)
I received and ARC from the author, this is my honest review.
After 8 years apart, the dynamic duo is back together. Theo is holding a grudge and Rowan is hoping for a spark both in the game and in his life. Luckily the team Captain, Vic thrusts the two of them into a forced proximity situation, by inviting Rowan to move in with him and Theo.
If you love hockey and second chances this is the book for you. Filled with lots of time on the ice, fun teammates, and awkward moments.
Theo and Rowan definitely have a place in my heart. It was so much fun to go on their journey. Theo couldn't hold tight to the grudge for long when Rowan was always around to remind him why they were so good together before and why they can be so good together again.
I can't wait to see what Hannah Henry has up her sleeve for the next book! (No spoilers from me as to who it will be about!)
I received and ARC from the author, this is my honest review.
June 14, 2023
I got an ARC! How exciting!
This book was delightful! I’ve found all of the Hannah Henry books I’ve read so far to be delightful, because she’s got a particular style of writing that I enjoy. It’s light, fun, and easy. There are no third-act break-ups. There are no dramatic on-ice injuries and characters rushing to the hospital. There are no traumatic or dramatic public outings.
There are just two characters falling (back) in love and all that encompasses. Love it!
You also don’t need to read the other books in the series to enjoy this one, which is always appreciated.
Recommended if you like: something like a “cozy romance,” no intense third-act conflicts, light humor that sneaks up on you, easy breezy writing, a book light on plot but big on the main couple, and the main couple being totally gone on each other.
My only criticisms: the first third-ish was a bit uneven for me, though I found the writing did find its footing as the story progressed so I recommend readers keep going. It just felt like Henry was trying to get through a lot of set up quickly, which isn’t objectively bad, just not to my taste. There is also a slight miscommunication thread, though if you’ve read the book blurb then you’re already appropriated primed and it never consumes the story.
This book was delightful! I’ve found all of the Hannah Henry books I’ve read so far to be delightful, because she’s got a particular style of writing that I enjoy. It’s light, fun, and easy. There are no third-act break-ups. There are no dramatic on-ice injuries and characters rushing to the hospital. There are no traumatic or dramatic public outings.
There are just two characters falling (back) in love and all that encompasses. Love it!
You also don’t need to read the other books in the series to enjoy this one, which is always appreciated.
Recommended if you like: something like a “cozy romance,” no intense third-act conflicts, light humor that sneaks up on you, easy breezy writing, a book light on plot but big on the main couple, and the main couple being totally gone on each other.
My only criticisms: the first third-ish was a bit uneven for me, though I found the writing did find its footing as the story progressed so I recommend readers keep going. It just felt like Henry was trying to get through a lot of set up quickly, which isn’t objectively bad, just not to my taste. There is also a slight miscommunication thread, though if you’ve read the book blurb then you’re already appropriated primed and it never consumes the story.
June 16, 2023
This story had a bunch of tropes I enjoy: second-chance romance, teammates, hurt/comfort. It was a cute, short read which I breezed through.
I took off a star though because the writing is a bit more ‘tell’ than ‘show,’ and with a premise about one character’s emotional pain over past events, the stilted descriptions didn’t really work for me. I also thought both MC’s voices weren’t super distinct from each other.
That said, I still had a great time reading and this book satisfies my craving for hockey romance. When the characters do reconcile, I loved the feel-good fluff.
(Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a review)
I took off a star though because the writing is a bit more ‘tell’ than ‘show,’ and with a premise about one character’s emotional pain over past events, the stilted descriptions didn’t really work for me. I also thought both MC’s voices weren’t super distinct from each other.
That said, I still had a great time reading and this book satisfies my craving for hockey romance. When the characters do reconcile, I loved the feel-good fluff.
(Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a review)
June 27, 2023
Sweet Second Chances
Theo and Rowan's story is good second chance story. Hockey pulled them apart but it also puts them back together again. The story of the in-between is interesting and entertaining.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
Theo and Rowan's story is good second chance story. Hockey pulled them apart but it also puts them back together again. The story of the in-between is interesting and entertaining.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
July 4, 2023
Henry’s writing style lowers my blood pressure.
June 28, 2023
Thank you to Hannah Henry for my review copy of Offensive Edge.
𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨
This is the fifth book in Delay of Game series by Hannah Henry all based around NHL. This is a second chance MM cozy romance. I find this series not as interlinked as some other sports romance series but overall I do enjoy this series. I will definitely be reading any future stories. This book can definitely be read as a standalone.
Offensive Edge is written from dual POV which is definitely my preference with romance stories. Theo and Rowan were inseparable in their youth but then the NHL had different plans. Fast forward 8 years and they are back playing Ice Hockey together. Unsurprisingly, it takes both characters a while to see things from the others perspective. But with unintentionally forced proximity thanks to Vic, the Captain, a HEA is achieved.
𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨
This is the fifth book in Delay of Game series by Hannah Henry all based around NHL. This is a second chance MM cozy romance. I find this series not as interlinked as some other sports romance series but overall I do enjoy this series. I will definitely be reading any future stories. This book can definitely be read as a standalone.
Offensive Edge is written from dual POV which is definitely my preference with romance stories. Theo and Rowan were inseparable in their youth but then the NHL had different plans. Fast forward 8 years and they are back playing Ice Hockey together. Unsurprisingly, it takes both characters a while to see things from the others perspective. But with unintentionally forced proximity thanks to Vic, the Captain, a HEA is achieved.
June 28, 2023
Theo and Rowan were more than just besties in their junior hockey days. While Rowan was drafted into the NHL, Theo had to stay back for more development, and with that rift between them their relationship began to crumble. Theo was especially heartbroken at being left behind, they had never really defined their relationship, but they had been inseparable for years and his heartbreak eventually morphs into anger and resentment. The draft allowed Rowan to start his life as a hockey phenom, and although Theo was a bit of a late bloomer, after some years and shuffling around to different teams, he eventually made it to an NHL team that really allowed him to shine. Although dubbed a hockey superstar Rowan wasn’t on a team good enough to win the cup, and with his contract up he decides to make the shift over to his ex-BF/BFF’s team who are predicted to be true contenders for the cup this year.
Arriving in his new city Rowan can’t figure out why Theo is so hostile and cold towards him when he shows up to join his new team. And much to Theo’s chagrin, the team Captain, Vic, has invited Rowan to move into his house while he looks for somewhere to live… the house where Theo is also living. Despite all the tension between them, the chemistry they have on the ice is still through the roof, which begs the question, if they’re that good when they hate each other, how good might they be if they can finally get along again?
Offensive edge starts out with some really great angsty tension between the two MCs, who deep down have both really missed each other in the years since the draft. But it’s going to take some work before they can admit to each other, and themselves, how much they really still mean to each other. It’s a second-chance romance, with an edge of enemies to lovers. Coupled with a bit of close-proximity, and hurt/comfort this book has all my favourite tropes and a satisfying ending to boot! I really felt for Theo, and all his angst about being left behind really got me in the feels. He is truly heartbroken from being abandoned by a friend who he had never imagined his life without. Getting these two on a path back to friendship (and more?) was a satisfying adventure, and I can’t wait to read future books in this series!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Arriving in his new city Rowan can’t figure out why Theo is so hostile and cold towards him when he shows up to join his new team. And much to Theo’s chagrin, the team Captain, Vic, has invited Rowan to move into his house while he looks for somewhere to live… the house where Theo is also living. Despite all the tension between them, the chemistry they have on the ice is still through the roof, which begs the question, if they’re that good when they hate each other, how good might they be if they can finally get along again?
Offensive edge starts out with some really great angsty tension between the two MCs, who deep down have both really missed each other in the years since the draft. But it’s going to take some work before they can admit to each other, and themselves, how much they really still mean to each other. It’s a second-chance romance, with an edge of enemies to lovers. Coupled with a bit of close-proximity, and hurt/comfort this book has all my favourite tropes and a satisfying ending to boot! I really felt for Theo, and all his angst about being left behind really got me in the feels. He is truly heartbroken from being abandoned by a friend who he had never imagined his life without. Getting these two on a path back to friendship (and more?) was a satisfying adventure, and I can’t wait to read future books in this series!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
December 31, 2023
So that was odd.
I really wanted to like this, liked the premise but as the story unfolded, it did nothing to me. Pissed me off a bit. At first, I was living for Theo's pettiness. Like you go, boy, be a dysfunctional, mean adult! And then it got old. He was just an asshole and nothing changed and the story does not properly convey the reasons why Theo & Rowan stopped talking in the first place. Like sure, we get the facts, I guess, but the gravity of them don't really come through. They were everything to each other back when they were in minors, and I am not very convinced by why they grew apart, I didn't really understand the resentment. From the facts alone, I can see why they drifted apart, but the narration didn't sell it to me.
Another thing that pissed me off is the lack of friendship. I love hockey romances because my favourite come with a fun, dynamic side cast, often a found family-adjacent trope that I love. The others just don't really care to dive into the team dynamics and that's something that is lacking to me. Vic is Theo's closest friend and we don't get a single meaningful conversation between them. He is just dating the whole time and of course that means he cannot be a friend, even at times he SHOULD have been there. He is the captain, and he did NO captaining at ALL. So THAT was frustrating.
And then, the MESS of Rowan and Felix's platonic / one-sidedly romantic (from Rowan) co-dependant relationship could've been fun, but it was a little weird to me. I wish it had been brought up better during the book to feel less... out of place. I don't mind it when characters try to have a relationship with someone other than The Love Interest when they're in the obvious "it's not working out" phase, but most of the time, I don't lack the execution of that element. This was one such case.
I love the best friends to lovers and I like it when it's paired with angst and second chance. I loved the potential of teenage Theo & Rowan, but the whole miscommunication (paired with my personal disbelief, as I mentioned above, of WHY they split up in the first place), and the almost immediate "back together" was not it for me. I did like the mutual "I'll care for you if you need me even though I hate you", that always hits!
So yep, cute couple but a frustrating lack of development of the rest of the cast as well as a boring resolution.
I really wanted to like this, liked the premise but as the story unfolded, it did nothing to me. Pissed me off a bit. At first, I was living for Theo's pettiness. Like you go, boy, be a dysfunctional, mean adult! And then it got old. He was just an asshole and nothing changed and the story does not properly convey the reasons why Theo & Rowan stopped talking in the first place. Like sure, we get the facts, I guess, but the gravity of them don't really come through. They were everything to each other back when they were in minors, and I am not very convinced by why they grew apart, I didn't really understand the resentment. From the facts alone, I can see why they drifted apart, but the narration didn't sell it to me.
Another thing that pissed me off is the lack of friendship. I love hockey romances because my favourite come with a fun, dynamic side cast, often a found family-adjacent trope that I love. The others just don't really care to dive into the team dynamics and that's something that is lacking to me. Vic is Theo's closest friend and we don't get a single meaningful conversation between them. He is just dating the whole time and of course that means he cannot be a friend, even at times he SHOULD have been there. He is the captain, and he did NO captaining at ALL. So THAT was frustrating.
And then, the MESS of Rowan and Felix's platonic / one-sidedly romantic (from Rowan) co-dependant relationship could've been fun, but it was a little weird to me. I wish it had been brought up better during the book to feel less... out of place. I don't mind it when characters try to have a relationship with someone other than The Love Interest when they're in the obvious "it's not working out" phase, but most of the time, I don't lack the execution of that element. This was one such case.
I love the best friends to lovers and I like it when it's paired with angst and second chance. I loved the potential of teenage Theo & Rowan, but the whole miscommunication (paired with my personal disbelief, as I mentioned above, of WHY they split up in the first place), and the almost immediate "back together" was not it for me. I did like the mutual "I'll care for you if you need me even though I hate you", that always hits!
So yep, cute couple but a frustrating lack of development of the rest of the cast as well as a boring resolution.
July 18, 2023
After 8 long years, Theo Lane finally finds his place in the NHL with a team that respects and appreciates him. However, his world is turned upside down when his ex-not-quite-boyfriend and “Generational Talent ™ ”, Rowan Foley, joins the same team.
Hannah’s writing immerses readers in the world of pro hockey. The on-ice scenes are vividly portrayed and capture the intensity and excitement of the game. The author's love for the sport shines through, making these moments engaging and realistic. (I had my sports loving husband check out the hockey scenes and he agrees!) 😅
Theo and Rowan's interactions are charged with raw emotion and intense chemistry, drawing you into their journey of rediscovery, forgiveness and understanding. This slow-burn romance (with plenty of what I’d like to call angry pining) keeps readers rooting for their reconciliation amidst the challenges they face. I love how they both start off thinking the other is to blame for the past and come to realise things aren’t always one sided. (The flashbacks to voicemails, texts etc -- oh my heart 💔)
The characters' journeys feel authentic and relatable. They were sympathetic even when being d*ckheads. 😜 Hannah is so good at portraying realistic, flawed and all too human characters. The evolution of Theo and Rowan's relationship is so compelling!
The emotional depth and heartfelt moments add layers to the narrative, appealing to fans of sports romance and those seeking an emotionally satisfying story.
Hannah's skillful storytelling and realistic characters make for an engaging read. I swear every story just gets better and better! This book is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a passionate and emotionally fulfilling journey.
If you like:
🌟Second chance romance
🌟Forced proximity
🌟First times/virgin MC
🌟Demisexual rep
🌟“Angry” pining
Then this story is for you 🏒❤️🏒❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Hannah’s writing immerses readers in the world of pro hockey. The on-ice scenes are vividly portrayed and capture the intensity and excitement of the game. The author's love for the sport shines through, making these moments engaging and realistic. (I had my sports loving husband check out the hockey scenes and he agrees!) 😅
Theo and Rowan's interactions are charged with raw emotion and intense chemistry, drawing you into their journey of rediscovery, forgiveness and understanding. This slow-burn romance (with plenty of what I’d like to call angry pining) keeps readers rooting for their reconciliation amidst the challenges they face. I love how they both start off thinking the other is to blame for the past and come to realise things aren’t always one sided. (The flashbacks to voicemails, texts etc -- oh my heart 💔)
The characters' journeys feel authentic and relatable. They were sympathetic even when being d*ckheads. 😜 Hannah is so good at portraying realistic, flawed and all too human characters. The evolution of Theo and Rowan's relationship is so compelling!
The emotional depth and heartfelt moments add layers to the narrative, appealing to fans of sports romance and those seeking an emotionally satisfying story.
Hannah's skillful storytelling and realistic characters make for an engaging read. I swear every story just gets better and better! This book is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a passionate and emotionally fulfilling journey.
If you like:
🌟Second chance romance
🌟Forced proximity
🌟First times/virgin MC
🌟Demisexual rep
🌟“Angry” pining
Then this story is for you 🏒❤️🏒❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
June 23, 2023
Whether you like a friends to lovers or an enemies to lovers, this book will have you covered!
When Theo and Rowan were in junior hockey together, they were inseparable, and having...an undefined relationship. Then Rowan is drafted first overall and immediately goes to the NHL, while Theo is left behind. And they drift apart, until 8 years later when Rowan is a free agent and chooses to sign with San Jose, the team Theo has been thriving on. To Rowan's surprise, Theo is not at all thrilled to see him.
What follows is a great second chance bromance and romance alike. I am usually skeptical of second chance romances, since usually the thing that broke them up the first time is often a big bad that requires a lot of groveling. However, this one I was very okay with, since it was more youth and circumstance. Theo and Rowan were very awkwardly cute together once Theo got over his feelings. I also loved seeing more Felix, who we briefly saw in the previous book in this series. I also loved the other teammates we did get to see, and as always the hockey was exceptional.
If there was a quibble to be had about this book, I felt like the reason for their issues and drifting apart was kind of glossed over. We did get some tidbits into their life after the draft, but we either needed more flashbacks or more of them talking about the issues that drove them apart (ideally, both!).
Overall this was a very good book, and I can't wait for more in this series! I like each one even more than the last!
I did receive an early copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own original thoughts (for better or worse).
When Theo and Rowan were in junior hockey together, they were inseparable, and having...an undefined relationship. Then Rowan is drafted first overall and immediately goes to the NHL, while Theo is left behind. And they drift apart, until 8 years later when Rowan is a free agent and chooses to sign with San Jose, the team Theo has been thriving on. To Rowan's surprise, Theo is not at all thrilled to see him.
What follows is a great second chance bromance and romance alike. I am usually skeptical of second chance romances, since usually the thing that broke them up the first time is often a big bad that requires a lot of groveling. However, this one I was very okay with, since it was more youth and circumstance. Theo and Rowan were very awkwardly cute together once Theo got over his feelings. I also loved seeing more Felix, who we briefly saw in the previous book in this series. I also loved the other teammates we did get to see, and as always the hockey was exceptional.
If there was a quibble to be had about this book, I felt like the reason for their issues and drifting apart was kind of glossed over. We did get some tidbits into their life after the draft, but we either needed more flashbacks or more of them talking about the issues that drove them apart (ideally, both!).
Overall this was a very good book, and I can't wait for more in this series! I like each one even more than the last!
I did receive an early copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own original thoughts (for better or worse).
July 11, 2023
Theo knew that he loved Rowan despite their undefined but close relationship when they were in junior hockey waiting to be drafted to the majors. Even the prospect of going to different teams did not mean that he wanted to lose touch. Rowan is drafted by a team in Texas and goes to the NHL and Theo is left behind. And they did lose contact. Theo worked to build a life without Rowan in it, though it broke his heart to lose touch and eight years later he was not looking forward to Rowan joining his team in San Diego. Rowan wants to win the Stanley Cup and he wants Theo. He feels both things are achievable if he can sign with San Diego. Theo is even more upset that when Rowan gets to town he is invited to share the house that team captain owns and Theo stays in when he is in season. What proceeds from this is this duo finding their rhythm again not only on the ice, which is easier for them to do, but also rebuilding the relationship that had been so dear to them both before different paths to professional hockey separated them. This current iteration of their relationship takes its time with them having to rebuild from the new place they are in their relationship and the trust and affection that they felt for one another before the romance could reassert itself in their lives. They do the work so that they can land in a good place not only professionally but also personally. This was sweet and emotional but also left me smiling.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2023
Theo y Rowan tuvieron un romance adolescente que termino de manera accidentada, ahora ambos están jugando para el mismo equipo y tienen que dejar a lado sus diferencias por el bien del equipo.
Esta historia tiene cosas que me gustan: second chance, friends to rivals to lovers, proximidad forzada y slow burn.
Theo y Rowan se complementan dentro y fuer del hielo, me gusto ver cómo su relación va mejorando con el pasar del tiempo. Poco a poco Theo va dejando del lado su rencor y Rowan se esfuerza por recuperar lo que tenía con Theo y no solo sus relación romántica sino que quiere a su mejor amigo de vuelta.
La relación adolescente que tuvieron fue linda, llena de esa emoción juvenil del primer amor pero también con todas las complicaciones y dramas de la edad, ahora están conscientes de lo que cada uno hizo mal en el pasado, mejoran su comunicación en vez de suponer cosa y deciden intentarlo de nuevo. Y admito que las cosas son lentas con este par pero vale cada segundo de espera.
Me encanta cuando ambos protagonistas juegan en el mismo equipo y comparten la emoción del juego, la presión y la alegría de sus triunfos.
Rowan es un lindo y lo ame demasiado. Me encantaba como podía ser el mejor cuando estaba jugando pero en la vida diaria o con el trato con las personas era torpe y me daba ternura.
Esta historia tiene cosas que me gustan: second chance, friends to rivals to lovers, proximidad forzada y slow burn.
Theo y Rowan se complementan dentro y fuer del hielo, me gusto ver cómo su relación va mejorando con el pasar del tiempo. Poco a poco Theo va dejando del lado su rencor y Rowan se esfuerza por recuperar lo que tenía con Theo y no solo sus relación romántica sino que quiere a su mejor amigo de vuelta.
La relación adolescente que tuvieron fue linda, llena de esa emoción juvenil del primer amor pero también con todas las complicaciones y dramas de la edad, ahora están conscientes de lo que cada uno hizo mal en el pasado, mejoran su comunicación en vez de suponer cosa y deciden intentarlo de nuevo. Y admito que las cosas son lentas con este par pero vale cada segundo de espera.
Me encanta cuando ambos protagonistas juegan en el mismo equipo y comparten la emoción del juego, la presión y la alegría de sus triunfos.
Rowan es un lindo y lo ame demasiado. Me encantaba como podía ser el mejor cuando estaba jugando pero en la vida diaria o con el trato con las personas era torpe y me daba ternura.
Did not finish
September 25, 2024DNF @ 51%
It’s not exactly unexpected considering how much I hated the previous book in this series, and to be fair, this one wasn’t as bad — but I get the feeling that’s only because I’m cutting my losses early.
There’s something so special about hockey books missing in this series and is the family feels of a team. I feel like the only two characters that matter are always the main couple, and I forget they even have a team for most of the story. It’s also just very low on hockey to begin with, but that’s been consistent from book 1, so I can’t complain much.
The thing that had me giving up was that I hated Theo. I’m sorry, am I supposed to feel some sort of sympathy for a grown man holding on to a grudge like a teenager because of jealousy over his best friend’s success? It also pissed me off that the book puts all the blame on Rowan when to me it was obvious that Theo wasn’t a great friend either. There’s also absolutely no chemistry between them. Zero. Any intimate scene made me feel like watching paint dry. I think the much more interesting romance would’ve been between Rowan and Felix.
Although a part of me is curious about reading Felix’s sexual realization in the next book, I’m not putting myself through another book by this author. I’m throwing the towel — there’s a lot better hockey series out there to spend my time reading.
It’s not exactly unexpected considering how much I hated the previous book in this series, and to be fair, this one wasn’t as bad — but I get the feeling that’s only because I’m cutting my losses early.
There’s something so special about hockey books missing in this series and is the family feels of a team. I feel like the only two characters that matter are always the main couple, and I forget they even have a team for most of the story. It’s also just very low on hockey to begin with, but that’s been consistent from book 1, so I can’t complain much.
The thing that had me giving up was that I hated Theo. I’m sorry, am I supposed to feel some sort of sympathy for a grown man holding on to a grudge like a teenager because of jealousy over his best friend’s success? It also pissed me off that the book puts all the blame on Rowan when to me it was obvious that Theo wasn’t a great friend either. There’s also absolutely no chemistry between them. Zero. Any intimate scene made me feel like watching paint dry. I think the much more interesting romance would’ve been between Rowan and Felix.
Although a part of me is curious about reading Felix’s sexual realization in the next book, I’m not putting myself through another book by this author. I’m throwing the towel — there’s a lot better hockey series out there to spend my time reading.
June 23, 2023
4.5 stars rounded to 5. Theo and Rowan were inseparable in juniors, but once they were drafted things fell apart. Rowan was immediately successful in the NHL, while Theo took a bit longer to find his stride. Theo was hurt and angry that Rowan seemed to give up on them so easily. When Rowan is traded to his team, Theo is not happy. Their connection on the ice is the same, but off the ice, Theo is still hurt and angry. When they finally get past their issues, they are so sweet together. This book definitely caused me to lose some sleep because once I started, I couldn’t put it down. Theo and Rowan (especially Rowan), captured my heart and I really loved their story. My only reason for taking off a half star is that I didn’t want to read about Theo hooking up on page, especially with a woman and especially since Rowan hadn’t. Don’t worry, they weren’t together at the time and it wasn’t cheating, it’s just an irrational me thing! I really did love this book and absolutely recommend it, and all the other books in the series. I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
I enjoyed Theo and Rowan's story. Theo is great. He cares and feels so deeply. He's this big strong guy with a tough front, but he's soft and sad inside. He's funny and caring and loves to care for Rowan, too. Rowan is delightful. He's particular and specific. He's codependent and unapologetic about it. He's so caring, kind, and maybe a little clueless. Well, they're both kinda clueless tbh. I enjoyed this second chanced, forced proximity situation. The miscommunication was frustrating though. I get they're just dumb when it comes to feelings, especially as 18 year olds, but I was so frustrated everything could've been avoided. But it all needed to happen to get us here, which I also get. I love how Theo takes care of Rowan... and vice versa. And I love that they play together so well, even when they aren't speaking outside of hockey. This was such a sweet book, I even teared up a bit.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, second chance, forced proximity, roommates, high school lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, childhood friends, codependent, idiots to lovers, miscommunication, hockey, teammates
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, second chance, forced proximity, roommates, high school lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, childhood friends, codependent, idiots to lovers, miscommunication, hockey, teammates
June 27, 2023
First, Theo and Rowan’s story has such wonderful emotion as their misunderstanding is so heartbreaking. They were so young when Rowan was drafted into the NHL, while their love was pure, they just didn’t have the tools to survive the separation. I loved this take on second chance romance, the story is so well crafted and heartfelt. It was interesting getting each of their points of view, as Theo and Rowan have such a different perspective of the rift in their relationship. Rowan seems genuinely surprised by the reception he receives from a very hurt and angry Theo. My favorite parts were the flashbacks, the old texts, and messages from their time in the juniors. It’s wonderfully poignant, neither of them behaved perfectly, but there are no villains in their story. Theo and Rowan were victims of hockey, distance, and their own youth. It was absolutely lovely seeing them find the way back, both personally and on the ice. Great addition to this series!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 21, 2025
Usually I find that the books in hockey series get worse (more formulaic and boring) as the series goes. This book is a pleasant surprise. It's the best book in the series so far (I haven't read the 6th one). The characters seem unique and fully formed. The hockey setting feels so much more nuanced and authentic compared to the earlier books.
The second chance romance story is so sweet and well done. My only nitpick is that the convo they have around halfway through feels a bit too on the nose and easily resolved - I wanted a bit more drawn out reconciliation. And since they get back together about halfway through, there is essentially no conflict in the second half of the book - it's just a big happy epilogue for the most part.
Overall, a sweet and fairly fluffy read that is well executed.
The second chance romance story is so sweet and well done. My only nitpick is that the convo they have around halfway through feels a bit too on the nose and easily resolved - I wanted a bit more drawn out reconciliation. And since they get back together about halfway through, there is essentially no conflict in the second half of the book - it's just a big happy epilogue for the most part.
Overall, a sweet and fairly fluffy read that is well executed.
March 11, 2026
At first I was on Theo's side—him being upset with Rowan for leaving him behind and forgetting about his friends/lover. But the more we get of Rowan's story and how he felt that Theo wasn't supportive, didn't seem to like him very much, and reacted in a pretty shitty way, and learning that he hadn't been with anyone else after Theo, the more I realized that Theo was a jealous little bitch who didn't deserve Rowan.
Why do we get Rowan being a cutie and trying to prove to Theo that he is all in—planning dates, learning how to cook his favorite dish, and declaring his love—but no Theo grovelling? It should at least go both ways.
I also wasn't a fan of the way Rowan was portrayed with his issues with sex—it felt weird.
Overall, this part 5 of the series was not my favorite. It was hard to connect with the characters and there was too much hockey :))) I skimmed a lot.
Why do we get Rowan being a cutie and trying to prove to Theo that he is all in—planning dates, learning how to cook his favorite dish, and declaring his love—but no Theo grovelling? It should at least go both ways.
I also wasn't a fan of the way Rowan was portrayed with his issues with sex—it felt weird.
Overall, this part 5 of the series was not my favorite. It was hard to connect with the characters and there was too much hockey :))) I skimmed a lot.
June 17, 2023
Inseparable to strangers to lovers…ugh, the feels, the sweetness, I loved every minute!
I usually am not a fan of the second chance romance trope, but Hannah Henry really has a way of delivering a wonderful story with low angst and alot of comfort. The journey that Theo went through to allow Rowan back in again and the journey Rowan went through to realize some of the mistakes he made…it was beautiful. I also LOVED how hockey heavy it was! It was the perfect balance I like to see in my hockey romances! I enjoyed it, start to finish!
Definitely pick this up if you’re interested in a slower burn, lower spice (still spicy in the back half of the book), sweet second chance NHL romance!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily!
I usually am not a fan of the second chance romance trope, but Hannah Henry really has a way of delivering a wonderful story with low angst and alot of comfort. The journey that Theo went through to allow Rowan back in again and the journey Rowan went through to realize some of the mistakes he made…it was beautiful. I also LOVED how hockey heavy it was! It was the perfect balance I like to see in my hockey romances! I enjoyed it, start to finish!
Definitely pick this up if you’re interested in a slower burn, lower spice (still spicy in the back half of the book), sweet second chance NHL romance!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily!
June 28, 2023
Delay of Game... delay of gratification - Offensive Edge is a long slow tease building to steam at about the 75% mark, so if you're one of those people that want instant action, this isn't the book for you. These two men start off, one as clueless and the other full of animosity and until the clueless one starts to understand, we see the pining, the questioning and the fear...
I would definitely class this as a New Adult read - even though the men are several years into their NHL careers, it still feels like they have a lot of adulting to learn and we see some of the transitions in this book, which makes it a compelling read.
There is good hockey, fun side characters and a tease for book 6!
I would definitely class this as a New Adult read - even though the men are several years into their NHL careers, it still feels like they have a lot of adulting to learn and we see some of the transitions in this book, which makes it a compelling read.
There is good hockey, fun side characters and a tease for book 6!
April 27, 2025
OFFENSIVE EDGE is the fifth in Hannah Henry's Delay of Game m/m hockey series. Theo Lane and Rowan Foley were besties and lineys through juniors and more, though neither clearly put that part into words. Being drafted to different teams while expected was also surprising and ultimately devastating to a couple guys who didn't communicate particularly clearly. When Rowan is finally traded to the SJ Serpents, where Theo's been playing for several years, it gives them the second chance they hadn't anticipated.
Sweet, and likely Rowan is maybe some degree of being on the spectrum for attraction, they eventually get themselves on the same page. Their on-ice connection resumes far more smoothly than their personal one, though they get there. An entertaining read.
Sweet, and likely Rowan is maybe some degree of being on the spectrum for attraction, they eventually get themselves on the same page. Their on-ice connection resumes far more smoothly than their personal one, though they get there. An entertaining read.
March 11, 2026
Theo, bi and still petty about the end of friendship/love and Rowan, sort of demi gay coded, who had an easier career path in the NHL
3.5 rounded up
Second Chance. Hockey romance. 8 years apart. Newly on the same team again. Roommates. Sharing a bed. Hurt/comfort. Inexperienced MC. First time.
The codependency between Rowan and Felix was a bit much at the beginning and sort of made it feel like Rowan would have had the same relationship with Felix if he hadn’t been a “straight” best friend.
The rest of the story was fine. It was a quick and easy low angst read. But a little too much telling and not showing maybe? I can’t say my heart fluttered all that much for these characters but it was nice enough, I wasn’t bored.
TW
Vomiting
Getting injured
Recreational drug use (weed)
3.5 rounded up
Second Chance. Hockey romance. 8 years apart. Newly on the same team again. Roommates. Sharing a bed. Hurt/comfort. Inexperienced MC. First time.
The codependency between Rowan and Felix was a bit much at the beginning and sort of made it feel like Rowan would have had the same relationship with Felix if he hadn’t been a “straight” best friend.
The rest of the story was fine. It was a quick and easy low angst read. But a little too much telling and not showing maybe? I can’t say my heart fluttered all that much for these characters but it was nice enough, I wasn’t bored.
TW
Vomiting
Getting injured
Recreational drug use (weed)
June 27, 2023
Rowan joins the San Jose Serpentd for two reasons he wants to win the Stanley cup and two, his childhood best friend-Theo plays on the team. Rowan and Theo lost contact after Rowan was drafted into the NHL. When Rowan arrives in San Jose he is invited to live with his captain and discovers that Theo lives there too.
Theo is furious that Rowan signed with his team. On top of that he discovers that Rowan is his new roommate. Theo is determined to freeze out his ex-best friend. Rowan has other ideas.
I loved this story. It was a nice easy read with great romance and hockey as well. I highly recommend this book.
Theo is furious that Rowan signed with his team. On top of that he discovers that Rowan is his new roommate. Theo is determined to freeze out his ex-best friend. Rowan has other ideas.
I loved this story. It was a nice easy read with great romance and hockey as well. I highly recommend this book.
April 23, 2024
it's me hi, im the problem. esta serie no funciono como yo esperaba. uno de los primeros de los publicados lo lei el año pasado y no lo recuerdo mucho pero me gusto la premisa del 4 y lo lei y no me gusto casi nada que le di dnf o sea el problema soy yo que no me gusta la manera en que estan escritos con tanta narración y en tres párrafos ya hicieron mil cosas que no se explican. pero la sinopsis del quinto o sea este me gusto, porque soy debil por las segundas oportunidades y le intente dar una segunda oportunidad pero nop, aunque estuvo mejor y Theo y Rowan me gustaron mas, no los disfrute del todo. algo se sentía off.
June 28, 2023
Offensive Edge is a second chance hockey romance that I really enjoyed.
Rowan and Theo are thrown back together both on the ice and off when Rowan joins Theo's team.
Can they make things work this time around? Eight years is a long time apart.
The chemistry is still hot between these two, on and off the ice.
I loved the flashbacks that give so much history to their relationship.
It was absolutely lovely seeing them find the way back, both personally and on the ice. Great addition to this series!
Rowan and Theo are thrown back together both on the ice and off when Rowan joins Theo's team.
Can they make things work this time around? Eight years is a long time apart.
The chemistry is still hot between these two, on and off the ice.
I loved the flashbacks that give so much history to their relationship.
It was absolutely lovely seeing them find the way back, both personally and on the ice. Great addition to this series!
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