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Off the Bench Duet #2
Retaking the Shot
“Ford, stay with me.”
Those were the last four words Ford Mahoney heard Emmett Cooper utter before everything went dark.
When Ford wakes up in the hospital, it doesn’t take long for him to realize he needs to confront the demons of his past. Meanwhile, the event of that night leaves Coop envisioning a better future for himself.
As they both try to find their way, they can’t deny the bond they share. Yet, they struggle to fully embrace the love and acceptance they both deserve and crave.
Tired of the back-and-forth, they decide to retake their shot at love, but continued obstacles with Coop’s best friend, Ford’s ex, and the person who once shattered Ford’s world threatens their newfound happiness.
As they skate through life’s challenges together, Ford and Coop learn that sometimes you have to drop the gloves and fight for what truly matters.
Retaking the Shot is book 2 in the Off the Bench duet. It is not a standalone novel.
Those were the last four words Ford Mahoney heard Emmett Cooper utter before everything went dark.
When Ford wakes up in the hospital, it doesn’t take long for him to realize he needs to confront the demons of his past. Meanwhile, the event of that night leaves Coop envisioning a better future for himself.
As they both try to find their way, they can’t deny the bond they share. Yet, they struggle to fully embrace the love and acceptance they both deserve and crave.
Tired of the back-and-forth, they decide to retake their shot at love, but continued obstacles with Coop’s best friend, Ford’s ex, and the person who once shattered Ford’s world threatens their newfound happiness.
As they skate through life’s challenges together, Ford and Coop learn that sometimes you have to drop the gloves and fight for what truly matters.
Retaking the Shot is book 2 in the Off the Bench duet. It is not a standalone novel.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2024
136 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Knight
82 books3,030 followersKimberly Knight is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives in the Central Valley of California with her loving husband, who is a great research assistant, and young daughter, who keeps Kimberly on her toes. Kimberly writes in a variety of genres, including romantic suspense, contemporary romance, erotic romance, and paranormal romance. Her books will make you laugh, cry, swoon, and fall in love before she throws you curve balls you never see coming.
When Kimberly isn’t writing, you can find her watching her favorite reality TV shows, including cooking competitions, binge-watching true crime documentaries, and going to San Francisco Giants games. She’s also a two-time desmoid tumor/cancer fighter, which has made her stronger and an inspiration to her fans.
When Kimberly isn’t writing, you can find her watching her favorite reality TV shows, including cooking competitions, binge-watching true crime documentaries, and going to San Francisco Giants games. She’s also a two-time desmoid tumor/cancer fighter, which has made her stronger and an inspiration to her fans.
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June 6, 2025
RATING 4.5 STARS
Retaking the Shot is the second book in the Off the Bench Duet by Kimberly Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams. This book starts right up where the previous book left off. You definitely need to have read book one, Hooking the Captain, before this one.
While the first book focuses on Coop and Ford’s early days, and the mistakes they made, I feel like this one focuses on their paths to heal, to make themselves better so that eventually, they can be better together. One thing is certain, even though they’ve been apart for some time and lived their own lives, their love for one another never died. Every time they were anywhere near each other, those feelings came rushing back. But I believe that Ford most of all realized that he had to make himself stronger and deal with the events of his past before he could be with Coop. This was such a hard thing for him to do, to work on himself first and I feel like it really shows that he has matured and grown so much.
Both of these men had hidden their true selves from everyone all their lives, their families, their co-workers, Coop’s team, everyone. And with each person they revealed the truth to, you could see the weight getting lighter and lighter that each of them carried.
The worst part of Ford’s past does come back to haunt him which in a way was the best thing to have happened because he finally really dealt with it. I was so proud of him. I do want to add that I loved both of these two’s families. They were both so supportive of everything they did.
This really was such a good story. I loved getting to know these two and I lived their story right along with them. I sped through these books because I needed to know how it all came out. And the ending was the absolute sweetest. I’ve read all of this writing duo’s MM books and always enjoy them and plan to continue doing so. But for now, my heart is full of love for Coop and Ford.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Retaking the Shot is the second book in the Off the Bench Duet by Kimberly Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams. This book starts right up where the previous book left off. You definitely need to have read book one, Hooking the Captain, before this one.
While the first book focuses on Coop and Ford’s early days, and the mistakes they made, I feel like this one focuses on their paths to heal, to make themselves better so that eventually, they can be better together. One thing is certain, even though they’ve been apart for some time and lived their own lives, their love for one another never died. Every time they were anywhere near each other, those feelings came rushing back. But I believe that Ford most of all realized that he had to make himself stronger and deal with the events of his past before he could be with Coop. This was such a hard thing for him to do, to work on himself first and I feel like it really shows that he has matured and grown so much.
Both of these men had hidden their true selves from everyone all their lives, their families, their co-workers, Coop’s team, everyone. And with each person they revealed the truth to, you could see the weight getting lighter and lighter that each of them carried.
The worst part of Ford’s past does come back to haunt him which in a way was the best thing to have happened because he finally really dealt with it. I was so proud of him. I do want to add that I loved both of these two’s families. They were both so supportive of everything they did.
This really was such a good story. I loved getting to know these two and I lived their story right along with them. I sped through these books because I needed to know how it all came out. And the ending was the absolute sweetest. I’ve read all of this writing duo’s MM books and always enjoy them and plan to continue doing so. But for now, my heart is full of love for Coop and Ford.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
February 28, 2024
Retaking the Shot is the final entry in Ford and Coop's story where they finally get their much-deserved HEA. This entry has a huge emotional payoff for both characters and I enjoyed seeing the character growth of Ford, who has gone through so much. Coop is the perfect boyfriend, with his unending support and love for Ford during some of his darkest moments.
I loved this story and getting to see Ford and Coop's story finally meet its conclusion. They go through so much and I enjoyed getting to see past wrongs and finally find some reconciliation. This was a great ending for a wonderful couple.
I loved this story and getting to see Ford and Coop's story finally meet its conclusion. They go through so much and I enjoyed getting to see past wrongs and finally find some reconciliation. This was a great ending for a wonderful couple.
November 2, 2024
"I took a final gulp of my beer. “So… Ford and I are back together.”
Hayden stared at me for a few beats. “I knew it was only a matter of time before he broke you down.”"
"Hayden’s eyes bore into mine, skepticism etched across his face. “I just don’t want to see you get hurt, man, and that’s all Ford does.”"
This is a joke at this point. 1.5⭐
It's not that I mind the main couple, I don't, they're fine together, but they didn't get a good story.
🔵 Conclusion of the duet
🟢 The guys on both covers aren't cover material
🌶️ A lot of smut but it's boring; both vers in this one
The book has plenty of really short chapters where at first it tells the same event from Ford and then Cooper's POV, then it just starts giving tons of short hockey themes, then the parents, then the relationship, it's read like a day-to-day life and it's not really engaging.
"He narrowed his eyes. “So, was this some sort of payback for last Christmas when I said we couldn’t be together?”
“Of course not. But nothing has changed.”
“Yes, it has,” he implored. “I don’t care anymore what people think. I want to be with you.”"
So after a year has passed this guy suddenly doesn't care anymore what Hayden and Tyler have to say? It took Ford telling Hayden and Tyler his whole traumatic past for them to forgive him and in the meantime Coop went to their wedding alone, hung out with them alone, Ford wasn't invited - anywhere. And it makes me wonder what kind of a partner is Coop that he was letting that slide?
And again,
“I’m sorry that happened to you, Ford,” Hayden added. “But are you also saying that’s the reason you reported me to the dean?”
I honestly still can't fucking believe that a 40 year old man is berating a guy who was a student at the University where the man was employed about reporting him to the dean - completely justifiable. It's ridiculous.
Ford is such a good guy, I honestly didn't get it. The fact that he was raped redeemed him, that's exactly what the message of this duet was. The fact that he was raped is what made others "forgive him".
I can't support this, none of it. It's a terribly written story, a complete mess and it almost feels like the authors are playing a guessing game about everything, they're not getting it right.
Hayden stared at me for a few beats. “I knew it was only a matter of time before he broke you down.”"
"Hayden’s eyes bore into mine, skepticism etched across his face. “I just don’t want to see you get hurt, man, and that’s all Ford does.”"
This is a joke at this point. 1.5⭐
It's not that I mind the main couple, I don't, they're fine together, but they didn't get a good story.
🔵 Conclusion of the duet
🟢 The guys on both covers aren't cover material
🌶️ A lot of smut but it's boring; both vers in this one
The book has plenty of really short chapters where at first it tells the same event from Ford and then Cooper's POV, then it just starts giving tons of short hockey themes, then the parents, then the relationship, it's read like a day-to-day life and it's not really engaging.
"He narrowed his eyes. “So, was this some sort of payback for last Christmas when I said we couldn’t be together?”
“Of course not. But nothing has changed.”
“Yes, it has,” he implored. “I don’t care anymore what people think. I want to be with you.”"
So after a year has passed this guy suddenly doesn't care anymore what Hayden and Tyler have to say? It took Ford telling Hayden and Tyler his whole traumatic past for them to forgive him and in the meantime Coop went to their wedding alone, hung out with them alone, Ford wasn't invited - anywhere. And it makes me wonder what kind of a partner is Coop that he was letting that slide?
And again,
“I’m sorry that happened to you, Ford,” Hayden added. “But are you also saying that’s the reason you reported me to the dean?”
I honestly still can't fucking believe that a 40 year old man is berating a guy who was a student at the University where the man was employed about reporting him to the dean - completely justifiable. It's ridiculous.
Ford is such a good guy, I honestly didn't get it. The fact that he was raped redeemed him, that's exactly what the message of this duet was. The fact that he was raped is what made others "forgive him".
I can't support this, none of it. It's a terribly written story, a complete mess and it almost feels like the authors are playing a guessing game about everything, they're not getting it right.
May 24, 2024
My disappointed thoughts:
1) Does Ford make stupid choices out of fear? Yes. Even so, he deserves better than what Coop gives him through out both books.
2) Ford pines the entire time for Coop. He is only having ONS/FWB, but is not in any serious relationships. Ford starts drinking heavily to deal with his depression after Coop uses him for sex one last time before kicking him to the curb.
3) Coop, however, after a series of ONS, is actually happily in a full blown "going-on-vacations" and "snuggling all day in bed" relationship with Baylor. He is not even thinking about or missing Ford. Coop moves on without a second thought to Ford.
4) So, lets be honest, if Baylor had not been traded to the Rangers, Coop would still be with him. Coop talks more about missing Baylor than Ford after Baylor is traded.
5) That is why Coop saying he has always and only loved Ford is absolutely bogus.
6) Ford deserves better.
7) Hayden and Tyler are (still) the worst.
1) Does Ford make stupid choices out of fear? Yes. Even so, he deserves better than what Coop gives him through out both books.
2) Ford pines the entire time for Coop. He is only having ONS/FWB, but is not in any serious relationships. Ford starts drinking heavily to deal with his depression after Coop uses him for sex one last time before kicking him to the curb.
3) Coop, however, after a series of ONS, is actually happily in a full blown "going-on-vacations" and "snuggling all day in bed" relationship with Baylor. He is not even thinking about or missing Ford. Coop moves on without a second thought to Ford.
4) So, lets be honest, if Baylor had not been traded to the Rangers, Coop would still be with him. Coop talks more about missing Baylor than Ford after Baylor is traded.
5) That is why Coop saying he has always and only loved Ford is absolutely bogus.
6) Ford deserves better.
7) Hayden and Tyler are (still) the worst.
December 5, 2024
The boys finally decided to say fuck it and get back together (woo hoo!).
A very special eye roll to Hayden and Tyler who acted like Ford had done this great unforgivable thing.
But just an eye roll. Because they eventually got their heads out of their asses too.
LOVE that Ford and Coop got back together before all that was resolved though, because Ford deserved to be chosen unconditionally.
What he'd done was NOT big enough to warrant all the drama.
I loved this one more than the first. Especially because the rapist got beaten up. Three cheers for Coop!
A very special eye roll to Hayden and Tyler who acted like Ford had done this great unforgivable thing.
But just an eye roll. Because they eventually got their heads out of their asses too.
LOVE that Ford and Coop got back together before all that was resolved though, because Ford deserved to be chosen unconditionally.
What he'd done was NOT big enough to warrant all the drama.
I loved this one more than the first. Especially because the rapist got beaten up. Three cheers for Coop!
March 15, 2024
gosh i love this series so much this was amazing beautiful end to the series! so romantic and spicy i know i will be rereading both of these stories many times
highly recommend!!
highly recommend!!
March 8, 2024
Ford was upset about the end of his relationship with Cooper that he took sleeping pills and drank. While waiting on 911, Cooper begged Ford to come back to him
I loved all the twists and turns in this book but especially the relationship timeline of Cooper & Ford. Their friendship with Kaylee, Tyler, Hayden & the rest of the Bruins was absolutely adorable.
I loved this duet so much. I’m now in my hockey era
I loved all the twists and turns in this book but especially the relationship timeline of Cooper & Ford. Their friendship with Kaylee, Tyler, Hayden & the rest of the Bruins was absolutely adorable.
I loved this duet so much. I’m now in my hockey era
May 11, 2024
3.5 Stars
There were things about these stories that I really liked, but some things just didn’t work for me. One of my pet peeves is, if I am reading a romance, I don’t want to see or hear about the main characters being with others. While there’s no cheating or on-page sex between Ford and Coop with other partners, both men are intimate and date/hook-up with others while they are apart. For me, with a romance, they should love each other so much that they don’t want to be with others. But that’s just me.
I really liked both Cooper and Ford, but I wanted to knock their heads together at times. They couldn’t seem to get on the same page at times and I think they were apart for too long. I’m not sure why this was a duet, I think everything could have taken place in just one book.
Both Ford and Cooper had amazing families. I didn’t read the first book in the series, Hayden and Tyler’s story, so I didn’t see first-hand what took place between Ford, Tyler, and Hayden, but frankly, I wanted to tell them both, especially Hayden, to take a long walk off a short pier. I understand Ford hurt them, but they just rubbed me the wrong way. (Sorry if I’ve upset any Hayden/Tyler fans)
The story was enjoyable, and for the most part, I enjoyed the authors' writing. It’s filled with plenty of sexy times, and while they are spicy, they felt a bit rushed. There were also things that happen throughout the story that are a bit far-fetched. While this wasn’t my favorite duet ever, I could
still recommend it.
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
There were things about these stories that I really liked, but some things just didn’t work for me. One of my pet peeves is, if I am reading a romance, I don’t want to see or hear about the main characters being with others. While there’s no cheating or on-page sex between Ford and Coop with other partners, both men are intimate and date/hook-up with others while they are apart. For me, with a romance, they should love each other so much that they don’t want to be with others. But that’s just me.
I really liked both Cooper and Ford, but I wanted to knock their heads together at times. They couldn’t seem to get on the same page at times and I think they were apart for too long. I’m not sure why this was a duet, I think everything could have taken place in just one book.
Both Ford and Cooper had amazing families. I didn’t read the first book in the series, Hayden and Tyler’s story, so I didn’t see first-hand what took place between Ford, Tyler, and Hayden, but frankly, I wanted to tell them both, especially Hayden, to take a long walk off a short pier. I understand Ford hurt them, but they just rubbed me the wrong way. (Sorry if I’ve upset any Hayden/Tyler fans)
The story was enjoyable, and for the most part, I enjoyed the authors' writing. It’s filled with plenty of sexy times, and while they are spicy, they felt a bit rushed. There were also things that happen throughout the story that are a bit far-fetched. While this wasn’t my favorite duet ever, I could
still recommend it.
* Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. *
March 22, 2024
Rating is for both books in the duet.
Enjoyable read with likeable MCs and side characters, although Hayden and Tyler annoyed me after a while.
Personally over 2 books I found the romance underwhelming. Ford and Cooper spend a lot of months apart. Ford has a regular fwb and also mentions he's had a few ons, and Cooper has a relationship with a team mate. Neither seem bothered that they saw other people during their break, and Cooper relationship with Baylor only seems to end because Baylor gets traded. I needed more angst and pining during their separation for it to truly feel like these 2 were each others great big love.
Enjoyable read with likeable MCs and side characters, although Hayden and Tyler annoyed me after a while.
Personally over 2 books I found the romance underwhelming. Ford and Cooper spend a lot of months apart. Ford has a regular fwb and also mentions he's had a few ons, and Cooper has a relationship with a team mate. Neither seem bothered that they saw other people during their break, and Cooper relationship with Baylor only seems to end because Baylor gets traded. I needed more angst and pining during their separation for it to truly feel like these 2 were each others great big love.
March 11, 2024
The conclusion I needed for this duet. “Retaking the Shot” is a steamy, emotional and healing MM hockey romance that was a beautiful love story.
Picking up where “Hooking the Captain” left off. Ford and Cooper are at a standstill in their relationship. Ford’s past is still lingering and holding him back from finding his HEA. Cooper is still set on winning the Cup but he still can’t get Ford out of his mind.
Ford and Cooper are great together and the connection they had was coming off the pages. The attraction was there but they were connected on a deeper emotional level. Cooper is swoon worthy on how he is with Ford and how he tries to reconnect with him. He’s an amazing captain and a great friend. He truly cares and that shines throughout the story. Ford grows so much in this story and I loved reading about him finding himself. This was such a healing story for him from the incident in his past. It was tough for him to work though but he came out stronger on the other side. The steamy scenes were steamy and strengthened the connection they shared. I loved getting to know the other teammates and hope we get stories about them. The ending was perfect for them and I hope we see more of them in the future.
Picking up where “Hooking the Captain” left off. Ford and Cooper are at a standstill in their relationship. Ford’s past is still lingering and holding him back from finding his HEA. Cooper is still set on winning the Cup but he still can’t get Ford out of his mind.
Ford and Cooper are great together and the connection they had was coming off the pages. The attraction was there but they were connected on a deeper emotional level. Cooper is swoon worthy on how he is with Ford and how he tries to reconnect with him. He’s an amazing captain and a great friend. He truly cares and that shines throughout the story. Ford grows so much in this story and I loved reading about him finding himself. This was such a healing story for him from the incident in his past. It was tough for him to work though but he came out stronger on the other side. The steamy scenes were steamy and strengthened the connection they shared. I loved getting to know the other teammates and hope we get stories about them. The ending was perfect for them and I hope we see more of them in the future.
April 13, 2024
This one was a lot better. I could've done without the dating from Coop's side, but I get it. It got exponentially better once they finally decided to work on things together. I was glad to see Tyler and Hayden pull their heads out of their butt and allow Ford to apologize.
I think that we could've removed 150 pages of the dating, separation, and miscommunication and just had these two work on their relationship from the beginning. I would've enjoyed it a lot better.
I also would've liked to know that Fallon was mentioned in this one so I knew to read his book before this one, since this one spoils that one if you haven't read it. And I'm glad that I had already read Tyler's book so I at least had an understanding of why he was so mad at Ford.
Overall though they had a good ending to their story.
I think that we could've removed 150 pages of the dating, separation, and miscommunication and just had these two work on their relationship from the beginning. I would've enjoyed it a lot better.
I also would've liked to know that Fallon was mentioned in this one so I knew to read his book before this one, since this one spoils that one if you haven't read it. And I'm glad that I had already read Tyler's book so I at least had an understanding of why he was so mad at Ford.
Overall though they had a good ending to their story.
February 27, 2024
I have been lucky enough to have read the ARC of Retaking the Shot, and can I just say that I wasn’t disappointed. So Ford and Coops book continues on from Hooking The Captain’s cliffhanger. This has all the feels, and in one particular scene it’s absolutely heartbreaking, but I can say with certainty that this book will stay with you long after you’ve finished it. Kimberly and Rachel have outdone themselves with this series and I highly recommend you reading it. All I can say is it’s definitely worth 5 stars 🌟
March 15, 2024
Retaking the shot is the conclusion in the Off the Bench Duet. What an amazing conclusion!!!! I loved it so much that I went back and re-read Hooking the Captain just so I could continue the story with Retaking the Shot. So many emotions. So many surprises.
I struggled to figure out which author was writing which part in the story. It all flows so well. They hooked me from the beginning with nail biting tension. I wanted to reach within the pages and hold Emmett. I wanted to hold Ford and tell him things would get better. I sure hoped things would get better. The story has lots of drama and shocking twists that I did not see coming. A few deserved a moment of silence while I contemplated my feelings.
My desire to know if love would conquer all had me reading page after page. My family didn't need dinner. My need to get past the shocks and surprises to find a period of mellow had me skipping the movie. The book had a lot more drama than the movie ever would. Reading to reach a happily ever after had me reading past my bedtime. The lack of sleep was so worth it.
I can only hope these talented authors have more books in the works.
I struggled to figure out which author was writing which part in the story. It all flows so well. They hooked me from the beginning with nail biting tension. I wanted to reach within the pages and hold Emmett. I wanted to hold Ford and tell him things would get better. I sure hoped things would get better. The story has lots of drama and shocking twists that I did not see coming. A few deserved a moment of silence while I contemplated my feelings.
My desire to know if love would conquer all had me reading page after page. My family didn't need dinner. My need to get past the shocks and surprises to find a period of mellow had me skipping the movie. The book had a lot more drama than the movie ever would. Reading to reach a happily ever after had me reading past my bedtime. The lack of sleep was so worth it.
I can only hope these talented authors have more books in the works.
March 15, 2024
Review by: Jennifer
(5 Stars)
This is the second part of the duet and MUST be read in order. After the way book one ended, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this story and I must say, it did not disappoint. I loved getting to read about the journey that Ford and Cooper took getting back to each other. This is full of drama, a bit of violence, and loads of hot naughty bits. I give Ford and Cooper 5 stars.
(5 Stars)
This is the second part of the duet and MUST be read in order. After the way book one ended, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this story and I must say, it did not disappoint. I loved getting to read about the journey that Ford and Cooper took getting back to each other. This is full of drama, a bit of violence, and loads of hot naughty bits. I give Ford and Cooper 5 stars.
February 29, 2024
Book two picked up right where book 1 left us on a huge cliffhanger. This one was all about healing, working thru past problems and becoming better people. Coop and Ford make the sweetest couple. Their families and friends are their biggest supporters and that made the ending all the sweeter. Second chances can and do happen.
March 2, 2024
Great story! As expected, this author did not disappoint
March 15, 2024
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the 2nd book in the Off the Bench Duet. You must read the first book before starting this one. As it picks up right where the first book leaves off. This is an MM hockey second chance romance with a HEA ending.
As Ford and Coop's story continues, Ford is trying to deal with the consequences of his past actions, making him spin into a downward spiral. While Coop is playing fantastic and trying to move on but his heart just won't let him. When one phone call changes everything.
I just loved these two. Sad to see this book come to an end but so happy they got the best HEA ending.
As Ford and Coop's story continues, Ford is trying to deal with the consequences of his past actions, making him spin into a downward spiral. While Coop is playing fantastic and trying to move on but his heart just won't let him. When one phone call changes everything.
I just loved these two. Sad to see this book come to an end but so happy they got the best HEA ending.
March 16, 2024
Retaking the Shot gives us the rest of Ford and Coop’s story. When Hooking the Captain ended my heart was decided between Ford and Coop. I wasn’t really sure if I wanted these two together or not. But with this second book all my fears about these two together ended and I’m so happy that they found their way back to each other. It was a bumpy ride and for a minute I wondered if they would ever be on the same page at the same time. Great story and writing!
March 28, 2024
This is the 2nd book for these guys and it was worth the wait. You get to finally see their happily ever after. I wouldn't pass this one up. Can't wait for the next book by these 2.
June 25, 2025
I didn’t care so much for the first, but this was perfect
ETA 6/25/25: Did a reread by listening to the audiobook this time and let me tell you! Tim Paige and Liam DiCosimo were absolutely incredible. I love the two of them anyway, but they truly brought Ford and Coop to life and that made the story that much more enjoyable. Highly recommend both the book and the audio.
I know that sometimes characters have to go their separate ways to grow and become who they’re meant to be as a couple. That doesn’t stop my ridiculous heart from hating that not only were they apart, but with other people. However, this story makes up for all of that.
Coop and Ford had such a rough road, but seeing how they were determined to make things work was incredible. Coop was there as Ford went through some hardships and Ford was there to support Coop through his hockey season.
This book is well worth the read.
ETA 6/25/25: Did a reread by listening to the audiobook this time and let me tell you! Tim Paige and Liam DiCosimo were absolutely incredible. I love the two of them anyway, but they truly brought Ford and Coop to life and that made the story that much more enjoyable. Highly recommend both the book and the audio.
I know that sometimes characters have to go their separate ways to grow and become who they’re meant to be as a couple. That doesn’t stop my ridiculous heart from hating that not only were they apart, but with other people. However, this story makes up for all of that.
Coop and Ford had such a rough road, but seeing how they were determined to make things work was incredible. Coop was there as Ford went through some hardships and Ford was there to support Coop through his hockey season.
This book is well worth the read.
September 9, 2024
I have no idea why this book has a higher rating then the first one because in my opinion it was even worse.
There was no character development. Of course Coop has a date with Tim and freaks out. And of course they meet him again. It was all very convenient and not very believable. Also when Tyler came by to hear hi story. One minute he seeds that he’ll never forgive him, the next moment he flies him in the arms. And then the scary story that Fallon was shot after the wedding and this is not mentioned again for numerous chapters. Weird.
Too many convenient coincidences, people who have incredibly strong opinions that they change within seconds and just not enough story.
I don’t think I’ll pick up more books from these authors.
There was no character development. Of course Coop has a date with Tim and freaks out. And of course they meet him again. It was all very convenient and not very believable. Also when Tyler came by to hear hi story. One minute he seeds that he’ll never forgive him, the next moment he flies him in the arms. And then the scary story that Fallon was shot after the wedding and this is not mentioned again for numerous chapters. Weird.
Too many convenient coincidences, people who have incredibly strong opinions that they change within seconds and just not enough story.
I don’t think I’ll pick up more books from these authors.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2024
This book was the second in the ‘Off the Bench’ Duet., and the conclusion to Food and Coop’s live story. I loved this duet, I couldn’t put it down.
Ford and Coop’s story is an emotional rollercoaster. One minute I was crying happy tears and the next sad ones. No matter what happens throughout their story they never stop loving each other and eventually find their way back to each other when they are ready to live outside of the closet.
I need to read more by these authors. They write a great collaboration.
Ford and Coop’s story is an emotional rollercoaster. One minute I was crying happy tears and the next sad ones. No matter what happens throughout their story they never stop loving each other and eventually find their way back to each other when they are ready to live outside of the closet.
I need to read more by these authors. They write a great collaboration.
September 11, 2024
Main storyline was ok, may have given 3 stars. But side plot with a professor/student relationship made me uncomfortable (it’s another book in the series, and I don’t like/read that trope). One MC was villainized for reporting a prof to the dean for dating a student. Which… is a reasonable thing to do when someone is abusing their power. Also, some of the ways the SA was discussed rubbed me the wrong way. Not, like, the worst I’ve ever seen, but also not the best.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 15, 2024DNF 24% - I don’t mind Ford, but all the other main characters really need to get over themselves.
April 6, 2024
It did not get better 🤡🤡
April 25, 2025
The epic conclusion to the story of coop and ford. After coop called 911 and got ford to the hospital, ford realized it was time to straighten out his shit. The run in with Tim has really screwed him up. So he quit drinking and started seeing a therapist. But he didn’t talk to coop.
Coop had dated his goalie but when Brayden got traded that was the end of their relationship. Ford had hooked up with his friend Kaylee but they were really just friends. Ford had been working on a dating app for work and had joined it, gone on a date or two and then realized he hated it because he really just still loved coop. But he had to fix himself before he could get back together with coop. Coop has used the app too. He met one guy who gave him kidnapper vibes and decided it was not going to work because he really still loves ford.
But ford has really fucked shit up in college with coops bestie Hayden and fords ex Tyler. When they announced their marriage they asked coop to be the best man and that coop not bring ford. But he hasn’t spoken to ford so it was fine.
After two months of no contact, ford and coop picked up where they left off and hit it hot and heavy. Ford decided he really needed to talk to Hayden and Tyler so after their wedding they all got together at coops house and that’s when ford came clean about his high school rapist and why he broke up with Tyler over a camera and why he reported Hayden out of jealousy. They all buried the hatchet.
Coop makes it to game seven of the Stanley cup in law Vegas and has brought all of his friends and family and fords family too. They win the cup, coop wins mvp, proposes to ford on the ice and they get married that night. The next day the media catches wind and asks him about it and he tells the truth hoping it will help other athletes be out and proud. HEA.
Coop had dated his goalie but when Brayden got traded that was the end of their relationship. Ford had hooked up with his friend Kaylee but they were really just friends. Ford had been working on a dating app for work and had joined it, gone on a date or two and then realized he hated it because he really just still loved coop. But he had to fix himself before he could get back together with coop. Coop has used the app too. He met one guy who gave him kidnapper vibes and decided it was not going to work because he really still loves ford.
But ford has really fucked shit up in college with coops bestie Hayden and fords ex Tyler. When they announced their marriage they asked coop to be the best man and that coop not bring ford. But he hasn’t spoken to ford so it was fine.
After two months of no contact, ford and coop picked up where they left off and hit it hot and heavy. Ford decided he really needed to talk to Hayden and Tyler so after their wedding they all got together at coops house and that’s when ford came clean about his high school rapist and why he broke up with Tyler over a camera and why he reported Hayden out of jealousy. They all buried the hatchet.
Coop makes it to game seven of the Stanley cup in law Vegas and has brought all of his friends and family and fords family too. They win the cup, coop wins mvp, proposes to ford on the ice and they get married that night. The next day the media catches wind and asks him about it and he tells the truth hoping it will help other athletes be out and proud. HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2024
YES! If you haven't read book one of this duet, DO NOT read this review. It's about the same couple and book 1 had a cliffhanger so it's literally impossible to avoid spoilers unless I just tell you I loved it and you should read it. But, also, I loved it and you should read it. Ford and Coop struck up a hot and heavy romance in book 1 but it ended when Coop found out Ford was the one who almost got his best friend fired for dating a student at his college. Ford only did it after his ex triggered some unresolved trauma, but they decided to end things.
After running into his trauma at the end of book 1, Ford drank and took sleeping pills before texting Coop about his run-in. Coop rushed to his side and probably ended up saving his life from overdosing. The two of them slowly make their way back to each other in this book, but there are so many obstacles in their way. It turns out nothing can keep them from each other and Ford starts therapy to help him work through his past trauma. Yay for therapy! I was on the edge of my seat so much for this one!
🔥: Coop and Ford are super steamy together! Their scenes are quickly paced but full of desire and urgency. They were apart for so long that they need to make up for lost time!
😆: There's plenty of comic relief to keep you smiling in between the life-altering scenes. Most of it comes from their friends and family.
😭: I didn't cry with this one, but there are some tough moments that will likely affect some readers more than others. Check out the CW!
I've been waiting for this one and it did not disappoint! This duo always packs a punch when it comes to angst and tension and craziness! Love it!
CW: details of past rape on the page, near drug overdose, violence on the page
After running into his trauma at the end of book 1, Ford drank and took sleeping pills before texting Coop about his run-in. Coop rushed to his side and probably ended up saving his life from overdosing. The two of them slowly make their way back to each other in this book, but there are so many obstacles in their way. It turns out nothing can keep them from each other and Ford starts therapy to help him work through his past trauma. Yay for therapy! I was on the edge of my seat so much for this one!
🔥: Coop and Ford are super steamy together! Their scenes are quickly paced but full of desire and urgency. They were apart for so long that they need to make up for lost time!
😆: There's plenty of comic relief to keep you smiling in between the life-altering scenes. Most of it comes from their friends and family.
😭: I didn't cry with this one, but there are some tough moments that will likely affect some readers more than others. Check out the CW!
I've been waiting for this one and it did not disappoint! This duo always packs a punch when it comes to angst and tension and craziness! Love it!
CW: details of past rape on the page, near drug overdose, violence on the page
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March 17, 2024𝙏𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚, 𝙄 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣, 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝.
Rᴇᴛᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ Sʜᴏᴛ → Kimberly Knight & Rachel Lyn Adams
Off the Bench Duet → Book 2
Copper ~ Ford
Rᴇᴛᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ Sʜᴏᴛ picks up where Hᴏᴏᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ Cᴀᴘᴛᴀɪɴ concluded and unfortunately, this book was not any better than book one.
Cooper and Ford have a long and bumpy road ahead of them to get back to each other and their happily ever after.
I struggled with... the connection between the main characters, the jumps in the timeline, the extra drama, and more. In my honest opinion, these books could have been combined into one book with some reworking and the story would have been more impactful.
Get ready for...
🏳️🌈 MM
🏒 Sports (Hockey)
❤️🩹 Second Chance
💔 Hurt/Comfort
🎙️ First-Person, Dual
💔 ~ 😘
⚠️ Contains content which may be uncomfortable for some readers!
❤️🖤
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Reads*
❤️ Instagram 🖤 Facebook 🩶 TikTok ❤️ Threads 🖤 X 🩶 Blog
Rᴇᴛᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ Sʜᴏᴛ → Kimberly Knight & Rachel Lyn Adams
Off the Bench Duet → Book 2
Copper ~ Ford
Rᴇᴛᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ Sʜᴏᴛ picks up where Hᴏᴏᴋɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ Cᴀᴘᴛᴀɪɴ concluded and unfortunately, this book was not any better than book one.
Cooper and Ford have a long and bumpy road ahead of them to get back to each other and their happily ever after.
I struggled with... the connection between the main characters, the jumps in the timeline, the extra drama, and more. In my honest opinion, these books could have been combined into one book with some reworking and the story would have been more impactful.
Get ready for...
🏳️🌈 MM
🏒 Sports (Hockey)
❤️🩹 Second Chance
💔 Hurt/Comfort
🎙️ First-Person, Dual
💔 ~ 😘
⚠️ Contains content which may be uncomfortable for some readers!
❤️🖤
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Reads*
❤️ Instagram 🖤 Facebook 🩶 TikTok ❤️ Threads 🖤 X 🩶 Blog
December 9, 2024
Well, I had to finish book because the last one ended in a bit of a cliffhanger. I like the narrators, so I enjoyed listening to the story. The plot had good moments. I just really wanted the character's personalities to develop a bit more. Coop and Ford are more like caricatures of people rather than actual characters. Real human beings don't have internal dialogue like that. The first person storytelling did not work well. Coop does not act like an actual professional athlete. Real athletes who want to win a Stanley Cup do not eat that kind of food or spend that much time at the bar after a game. Just no!
This book had some interesting plot developments, but a few things didn't quite work. Hayden's and Tyler's anger at Ford doesn't really make sense. They were the ones who actually did something questionable. Ford just reported it. There were no innocent parties in this conflict. That wasn't the only plot point I questioned, but since it carried over from the previous book I don't consider this one to be a spoiler. I do wish the authors had taken a different direction for the story though.
If you read/listened to the first book and enjoyed it, you will enjoy this one. I appreciated certain elements of the story, and I really liked the narration.
This book had some interesting plot developments, but a few things didn't quite work. Hayden's and Tyler's anger at Ford doesn't really make sense. They were the ones who actually did something questionable. Ford just reported it. There were no innocent parties in this conflict. That wasn't the only plot point I questioned, but since it carried over from the previous book I don't consider this one to be a spoiler. I do wish the authors had taken a different direction for the story though.
If you read/listened to the first book and enjoyed it, you will enjoy this one. I appreciated certain elements of the story, and I really liked the narration.
September 13, 2024
story of Ford and Coop 2nd book of duet
This is a second chance romance, featuring Ford Mahoney and Emmett Cooper, and is the second book in the Off The Bench Duet series.
Okay, I can breathe now. Wow, what a rollercoaster of a duet. So much happens in this story. Make sure you read the TWs.
This book had me stressing out and waiting for these two to get back together. However I get why they didn’t get together earlier than they did. Ford needed to work on himself and Coop needed to come to terms with what Ford had hidden from him. Their time apart made their relationship stronger in the end.
I was a little annoyed with the attitude from Hayden and Tyler, because I felt like it was over the top. I was happy their reconciled with Ford.
The ending was super swoony, it was a hard fought for HEA but they got there. It was a great read and worth your time.
Things to expect in this MM romance are:
2nd book of duet
Second chance
Sports romance
Hurt / Comfort
Check TWs
Slow burn
Right person, wrong time
Reunited, yay!
Spicy times
Supportive family & friends
Love of my life
Swoony HEA
This is a second chance romance, featuring Ford Mahoney and Emmett Cooper, and is the second book in the Off The Bench Duet series.
Okay, I can breathe now. Wow, what a rollercoaster of a duet. So much happens in this story. Make sure you read the TWs.
This book had me stressing out and waiting for these two to get back together. However I get why they didn’t get together earlier than they did. Ford needed to work on himself and Coop needed to come to terms with what Ford had hidden from him. Their time apart made their relationship stronger in the end.
I was a little annoyed with the attitude from Hayden and Tyler, because I felt like it was over the top. I was happy their reconciled with Ford.
The ending was super swoony, it was a hard fought for HEA but they got there. It was a great read and worth your time.
Things to expect in this MM romance are:
2nd book of duet
Second chance
Sports romance
Hurt / Comfort
Check TWs
Slow burn
Right person, wrong time
Reunited, yay!
Spicy times
Supportive family & friends
Love of my life
Swoony HEA
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews