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Interference
25% of the author’s royalties for Interference will be donated to organizations assisting homeless and/or disabled veterans.
Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
Interference is a 140,000+ word slow burn hockey and military romance. Don’t worry – there’s no cheating!
CW: combat PTSD, dying/death of a parent (cancer), experiences and trauma associated with homelessness
Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
Interference is a 140,000+ word slow burn hockey and military romance. Don’t worry – there’s no cheating!
CW: combat PTSD, dying/death of a parent (cancer), experiences and trauma associated with homelessness
534 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2024
About the author
L.A. Witt
223 books2,778 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 18, 2024
*3.5* Why was this book so loooooong? I usually like stories that take the time to develop characters and mood, but this was too much. My library copy says it is 617 pages, but the Kindle version says it’s just over 532. Either way, this is a very long, drawn out story.
Slooooow burn
Hockey/former military
No cheating
Hurt/comfort
The best animal co-characters
I deeply appreciate that 25% of the author’s royalties from this book will be donated to organizations supporting homeless and disabled veterans. This cause is very close to my heart.
Slooooow burn
Hockey/former military
No cheating
Hurt/comfort
The best animal co-characters
I deeply appreciate that 25% of the author’s royalties from this book will be donated to organizations supporting homeless and disabled veterans. This cause is very close to my heart.
July 1, 2026
I know a lot of my fellow GR friends aren't going to like this but the MC spends about 25% of the book with his now ex boyfriend, and the ex is a big portion of the plot of the book.
It was briefly mentioned in the synopsis but it's actually misleading because it's the only thing driving the plot forward.
I actually word searched the exes name and the love interest's name, and the exes name shows up 475 times... much more than Wyatt's.
Anthony and Simon break up and don't want to reveal to the public that they've broken up for fear of being traded. This conflict goes on for a good portion of the book. It was exhausting being in Anthony's head. I wanted to scream at him to just move on from Simon.
We don't know anything about the characters. Their ages, what they look like, the color of their hair, their eyes. I just conjured up a random image in my mind and stuck with that. I mean, if Wyatt served in the military for 12 years, he's gotta be at least 30.
Something that tripped me up was that the dog was in the same room as them while they're having sex. Yes, you heard me right. Wyatt's service animal is beside the bed while Wyatt blows Anthony, fingers Anthony, and fucks Anthony in several different positions. And the poor dog, Lily, is right there. That was all I could think about for the rest of the book. Justice for Lily 🙏
THE DOG IS RIGHT THERE BTW
There were grammar errors and typos. Here's a line that had me scratching my head:
The power dynamic bothered me. Wyatt was homeless and is extremely poor, and at his family's Christmas, Anthony-who is extremely rich-gets him an iPhone and a Macbook. Does that not seem a little... snobby? To have someone open that gift in front of his entire family? (not to mention his family is struggling with paying medical bills) ICKKKKKK.
The ending was bittersweet but not enough to save this book. This was my first LA Witt book. And most likely my last.
It was briefly mentioned in the synopsis but it's actually misleading because it's the only thing driving the plot forward.
I actually word searched the exes name and the love interest's name, and the exes name shows up 475 times... much more than Wyatt's.
Anthony and Simon break up and don't want to reveal to the public that they've broken up for fear of being traded. This conflict goes on for a good portion of the book. It was exhausting being in Anthony's head. I wanted to scream at him to just move on from Simon.
We don't know anything about the characters. Their ages, what they look like, the color of their hair, their eyes. I just conjured up a random image in my mind and stuck with that. I mean, if Wyatt served in the military for 12 years, he's gotta be at least 30.
Something that tripped me up was that the dog was in the same room as them while they're having sex. Yes, you heard me right. Wyatt's service animal is beside the bed while Wyatt blows Anthony, fingers Anthony, and fucks Anthony in several different positions. And the poor dog, Lily, is right there. That was all I could think about for the rest of the book. Justice for Lily 🙏
"Turn around. So I can fuck you from behind." I bit my lip. "Promise you'll do it hard?" Oh, hell. The fire in his eyes almost had me shooting cum all over his stomach. Sliding his hands up my thighs, he rasped, "I'll fuck you as hard as it takes to make you scream."
THE DOG IS RIGHT THERE BTW
There were grammar errors and typos. Here's a line that had me scratching my head:
"And as we celebrated our engagement in that luxury hotel room... As I was overwhelmed with love and more hope and stability that I'd thought I'd ever have again..."
The power dynamic bothered me. Wyatt was homeless and is extremely poor, and at his family's Christmas, Anthony-who is extremely rich-gets him an iPhone and a Macbook. Does that not seem a little... snobby? To have someone open that gift in front of his entire family? (not to mention his family is struggling with paying medical bills) ICKKKKKK.
The ending was bittersweet but not enough to save this book. This was my first LA Witt book. And most likely my last.
May 20, 2025
I enjoyed this a lot more than I originally expected, considering the first time one MC noticed his attraction to the other was 43% in.
Granted, for the entire first half of this, Anthony was in a relationship with another guy, and had been for years. Sadly, there's no cheating.
This book is a look into what happens after one of those hockey romances where the two MCs have a lot of passion but it ended with you being unsure they'd last.
Anthony and Simon got together years prior and were the first queer couple on the same team in the NHL. To potentially ward off future drama, their team's front office had supported them, with the major caveat that should they break up, one of them would be traded.
The immediate, if unintended consequence, was that it put immense pressure on the relationship, and when they'd inevitably grown resentful and apart, the two kept up the pretense of still being together because neither wanted to be traded, or to throw up roadblocks for any future couple playing on the same team.
The book starts on this note. Anthony, in a dead relationship but holding on for the sake of his career. Simon had moved out of their house 6 months ago but they still drove to work together so everyone, including their families, not to mention their fans, thought they were still together.
Enter Wyatt, the other MC. The most adorable meeting between the two that tells you pretty much everything you'll need to know about Anthony.
These two meet when Anthony is leaving the vet's office and walks in on Wyatt, who we come to learn has been living with his dog on the streets, begging the vet to take his dog in for the night because the temperatures are due to drop and he doesn't want his dog stuck outside with him.
Anthony shocks everyone, including Wyatt, when he invites Wyatt(and Lily) to come spend the night at his.
What follows is a slow friendship that slowly builds and intensifies while Anthony and Simon's relationship rapidly deteriorates.
I don't think I'd call this a slow burn by design, but it's very much a slow burn by necessity. I WOULD have preferred cheating lol but Anthony was in love with Simon and it does take him time to slowly let go of that and then much later, to start having new feelings for Wyatt.
Of course, Simon does not see it this way. He has the audacity to accuse Anthony of fucking Wyatt long before anything of that sort is even a consideration AND in spite of the fact that HE moved out of their house, HE refused to go to therapy to work on things and most importantly (eventually) HE ended the relationship.
Then he has the gall to become the ex that just won't fucking go away and eventually wants to get back together 💀
The jokes write themselves.
But yeah, this story is sort of a two in one for relationships, in the sense that the reader gets to see the one with Anthony and Wyatt blossom, but also gets to see a very extended breakup and fallout of the one with Anthony and Simon.
Simon is very much the third MC in this, although not sexually or romantically.
Which does lead him to eventually do some things that I firmly believe he didn't deserve forgiveness for.
That said, seeing how wrong Anthony and Simon are (and probably always were) for each other provides a very illuminating contrast for how right Anthony and Wyatt are for each other.
Those two have been handled so carelessly by the world and the people who claimed to love them that it's amazing they can still be a safe space for each other.
There's no great emotional turmoil between them and somehow that works, their dynamic is very much 'you're my home', if that makes sense.
The author also manages to portray the stark realities of being homeless without being dehumanizing.
I eventually understood why it needed to be that way, but when I started this, I was like WHY ON EARTH DOES THIS NEED TO BE FOURTEEN HOURS?
Granted, for the entire first half of this, Anthony was in a relationship with another guy, and had been for years. Sadly, there's no cheating.
This book is a look into what happens after one of those hockey romances where the two MCs have a lot of passion but it ended with you being unsure they'd last.
Anthony and Simon got together years prior and were the first queer couple on the same team in the NHL. To potentially ward off future drama, their team's front office had supported them, with the major caveat that should they break up, one of them would be traded.
The immediate, if unintended consequence, was that it put immense pressure on the relationship, and when they'd inevitably grown resentful and apart, the two kept up the pretense of still being together because neither wanted to be traded, or to throw up roadblocks for any future couple playing on the same team.
The book starts on this note. Anthony, in a dead relationship but holding on for the sake of his career. Simon had moved out of their house 6 months ago but they still drove to work together so everyone, including their families, not to mention their fans, thought they were still together.
Enter Wyatt, the other MC. The most adorable meeting between the two that tells you pretty much everything you'll need to know about Anthony.
These two meet when Anthony is leaving the vet's office and walks in on Wyatt, who we come to learn has been living with his dog on the streets, begging the vet to take his dog in for the night because the temperatures are due to drop and he doesn't want his dog stuck outside with him.
Anthony shocks everyone, including Wyatt, when he invites Wyatt(and Lily) to come spend the night at his.
What follows is a slow friendship that slowly builds and intensifies while Anthony and Simon's relationship rapidly deteriorates.
I don't think I'd call this a slow burn by design, but it's very much a slow burn by necessity. I WOULD have preferred cheating lol but Anthony was in love with Simon and it does take him time to slowly let go of that and then much later, to start having new feelings for Wyatt.
Of course, Simon does not see it this way. He has the audacity to accuse Anthony of fucking Wyatt long before anything of that sort is even a consideration AND in spite of the fact that HE moved out of their house, HE refused to go to therapy to work on things and most importantly (eventually) HE ended the relationship.
Then he has the gall to become the ex that just won't fucking go away and eventually wants to get back together 💀
The jokes write themselves.
But yeah, this story is sort of a two in one for relationships, in the sense that the reader gets to see the one with Anthony and Wyatt blossom, but also gets to see a very extended breakup and fallout of the one with Anthony and Simon.
Simon is very much the third MC in this, although not sexually or romantically.
Which does lead him to eventually do some things that I firmly believe he didn't deserve forgiveness for.
That said, seeing how wrong Anthony and Simon are (and probably always were) for each other provides a very illuminating contrast for how right Anthony and Wyatt are for each other.
Those two have been handled so carelessly by the world and the people who claimed to love them that it's amazing they can still be a safe space for each other.
There's no great emotional turmoil between them and somehow that works, their dynamic is very much 'you're my home', if that makes sense.
The author also manages to portray the stark realities of being homeless without being dehumanizing.
I eventually understood why it needed to be that way, but when I started this, I was like WHY ON EARTH DOES THIS NEED TO BE FOURTEEN HOURS?
February 17, 2026
This book really, really didn’t need to be so long. It went on and on and on, taking about the same things, and never, not once, did we really get an explanation as to why Anthony and Simon broke up besides the vague “the pressure caused issues”, but how? Who knows?
The story is nice, Anthony really saves Wyatt’s life, and that’s how their relationship begins, from strangers to tentative friends to lovers. But what I don’t get is why Wyatt didn’t go to one of his brothers for help? It just didn’t make sense that he seemed to have a great relationship with his family and didn’t ask for help, not even for his dog. Like, I get it, he didn’t want to cause problems for his parents, but he could have helped his mom look after his dad.
The ex being evil was a bit of a cliche and I didn’t care for it. It was a good book, but after 60% just wanted it to end.
The story is nice, Anthony really saves Wyatt’s life, and that’s how their relationship begins, from strangers to tentative friends to lovers. But what I don’t get is why Wyatt didn’t go to one of his brothers for help? It just didn’t make sense that he seemed to have a great relationship with his family and didn’t ask for help, not even for his dog. Like, I get it, he didn’t want to cause problems for his parents, but he could have helped his mom look after his dad.
The ex being evil was a bit of a cliche and I didn’t care for it. It was a good book, but after 60% just wanted it to end.
May 13, 2025
It's an okayish book, kind of sad, if you want something kind of sad to read but with sports romance in the mix this is the book for you. If you have triggers about ptsd and such I don't recommend
January 4, 2025
I’m unsure about this…there were parts I really liked.
For one the author donating proceeds to this book to help homeless veterans is cool.
The premise out hockey player and “boyfriend/teammate” are on the rocks and have been for over a year but they have to keep up the facade that they are still together in fear that one or both will be traded. Enter Wyatt a homeless veteran living on the streets with his service dog Lilly for PTSD. Wyatt and Anthony meet at the vets office and Anthony decides to take Lilly and Wyatt home.
The drama of it all. This book was so long and messy boots with Simon being the dickbag that he was.
BUT my biggest problem is that Wyatt’s family still cared and loved him and would have helped him not to be in those dire circumstances. When his brother and him talked at Christmas it kinda undercut the rest of the book for me. Like really your ego is that big that you refused to ask your family for help and instead just survived on the streets? Idk it didn’t make sense to me.
The two Maine coons cats were cute clearly this author is an animal lover. Anyways first time reading LA Witt and I’m unsure if I’ll read more?
🏳️🌈🫶
For one the author donating proceeds to this book to help homeless veterans is cool.
The premise out hockey player and “boyfriend/teammate” are on the rocks and have been for over a year but they have to keep up the facade that they are still together in fear that one or both will be traded. Enter Wyatt a homeless veteran living on the streets with his service dog Lilly for PTSD. Wyatt and Anthony meet at the vets office and Anthony decides to take Lilly and Wyatt home.
The drama of it all. This book was so long and messy boots with Simon being the dickbag that he was.
BUT my biggest problem is that Wyatt’s family still cared and loved him and would have helped him not to be in those dire circumstances. When his brother and him talked at Christmas it kinda undercut the rest of the book for me. Like really your ego is that big that you refused to ask your family for help and instead just survived on the streets? Idk it didn’t make sense to me.
The two Maine coons cats were cute clearly this author is an animal lover. Anyways first time reading LA Witt and I’m unsure if I’ll read more?
🏳️🌈🫶
June 8, 2024
While I am 100% behind the author's committment to give money from sales of this book to help homeless vets, this novel could be cut by a third and lose nothing of value. I got to 45%, and am stopping because even skimming it has become insufferably repetitious.
February 10, 2025
This shit has no business being so damn long bro
July 9, 2026
I'm such a sucker for this kind of hurt/comfort. This was a perfectly executed slow burn. 5/5
May 23, 2024
Slow burn and beautiful
Another great hockey romance from L.A. Witt! I loved the premise of this story and the hard-fought HEA.
I was nervous and anxious the whole time for Wyatt, but the desperation he felt at the beginning of the story eventually morphed into a sense of relief and hope as the story went on. It was stressful and heartbreaking to read at times.
Anthony… oh Anthony. The stress he hand to endure on one front while attempting to be his true self - to a degree - was difficult.
I loved how their friendship and their attraction grew.
This was a terrific read that I was able to read in one evening. Witt’s books are addictive!
Another great hockey romance from L.A. Witt! I loved the premise of this story and the hard-fought HEA.
I was nervous and anxious the whole time for Wyatt, but the desperation he felt at the beginning of the story eventually morphed into a sense of relief and hope as the story went on. It was stressful and heartbreaking to read at times.
Anthony… oh Anthony. The stress he hand to endure on one front while attempting to be his true self - to a degree - was difficult.
I loved how their friendship and their attraction grew.
This was a terrific read that I was able to read in one evening. Witt’s books are addictive!
August 5, 2024
Boring…
DNF at 57%
I liked the idea of the story and the characters, but found the book just super boring…
The ex is flat, no dimension to this character, just here to be kinda mean to Anthony.
Most of the interactions are regarding the cats, and don’t get me wrong I LOVE pets, but I’d prefer to have character development or actual action happening.
It’s very repetitive, both Wyatt and Anthony thinking the same things and keep on thinking about it so we have like 4 chapters with 2 same point of views on the same action…
At 60% they’re still not together and try not to get attracted to each other for which ever reason…
There’s still no plot…
So it’s a big pass for me sorry!
DNF at 57%
I liked the idea of the story and the characters, but found the book just super boring…
The ex is flat, no dimension to this character, just here to be kinda mean to Anthony.
Most of the interactions are regarding the cats, and don’t get me wrong I LOVE pets, but I’d prefer to have character development or actual action happening.
It’s very repetitive, both Wyatt and Anthony thinking the same things and keep on thinking about it so we have like 4 chapters with 2 same point of views on the same action…
At 60% they’re still not together and try not to get attracted to each other for which ever reason…
There’s still no plot…
So it’s a big pass for me sorry!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2024
(3.5/5) This was a long book with a sweet slow burn, heartbreaking backstories, and so much fluffiness (in the form of two chunky cats and a gorgeous service dog).
I really enjoyed this book. I liked that it was longer so I could get to know the characters (and their pets) really well. I enjoyed the ups and downs, the insecurities of the two characters and their really sweet romance.
And the best part of the whole thing is that the author donates a portion of the royalties to organisations that support homeless and disabled veterans. I love seeing that.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked that it was longer so I could get to know the characters (and their pets) really well. I enjoyed the ups and downs, the insecurities of the two characters and their really sweet romance.
“I do have a choice,” he said again, “and my choice is you. Hands down.”
And the best part of the whole thing is that the author donates a portion of the royalties to organisations that support homeless and disabled veterans. I love seeing that.
May 25, 2024
This book could have been at least 100 pages shorter and crispier, because the repeated bouts of guilt, insecurity and self-recrimination got tiresome after 350 pages!
But absolutely love the animals - Lily was amazing. And Jason...I mean Bear...I mean Bear-Jason. Eep!
But absolutely love the animals - Lily was amazing. And Jason...I mean Bear...I mean Bear-Jason. Eep!
July 31, 2025
Dnf at 50% - I get it, I also have a dog who I would k*ll for no questions asked, but if I had to read one more page about how the cats beg for food and how they’re placed in the scene or read one more dialogue about them talking about the pets, I would have thrown my kindle against the wall 😐 we get it, the pets are the most important thing in their lives. I was so damn bored reading this and it’s primarily because it’s so repetitive. The characters had great potential but they turned out to be very bland which is a shame since I was hyped for the plot of this book. But everything just felt very dull.
Read
September 25, 2025No long books. Sorry.
May 29, 2024
Interference is standalone MM Contemporary Sports Romance. Slowburn, Hockey, Hurt Comfort.
2POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 534 pages, May 22, 2024.
I had a pause with this author for last winter but the this new title doesn't seem any better. It just drags on and on and it just ... isn't good these days. Way too slow for starters. I get bored. Ugh. I give up. They used to write well to my taste often if not always, but lately - just no. Too depressing and bleak.
2POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 534 pages, May 22, 2024.
I had a pause with this author for last winter but the this new title doesn't seem any better. It just drags on and on and it just ... isn't good these days. Way too slow for starters. I get bored. Ugh. I give up. They used to write well to my taste often if not always, but lately - just no. Too depressing and bleak.
June 3, 2024
I so want to love this book. I love the story, mind you, but it feels so winded most of the time… Both MC are wonderful, but parts of this story just drag, and where those strings lead is often uninteresting and not worth the endless buildup. 😔
August 29, 2025
okay originally, this was not the rating I was going to give. Then we got to 85%~ where it’s obvious, it’s glaring:
Simon isn’t just an asshole.
He’s an ABUSIVE. TOXIC. PIECE OF SHIT.
And Anthony deadass is just like “Simon I want you to be happy 🥺. I’m sorry! We can’t work out :(“
Bitch. That is a grown ass man. Who’s manipulated you. Antagonized your friend/boyfriend. SPIED ON YOU. FINANCIALLY MANIPULATED YOU ??????? He deadass bought him a Ferrari with insurance that was too expensive, knowing Anthony wouldn’t even drive it because he was too scared to scratch it or whatever. Literally bought a million dollar mansion, even when Anthony was uncomfortable with the idea. Manipulated Anthony into not talking because they had to be in public soon—wants to start fights when Anthony is just talking to him.
and the fucking: “oh so it’s MY fault” every. Interaction.
Called Anthony’s rude ass names, accused Anthony of sleeping with him OVERRRR AND OVERRRR AGAIN.
It’s repetitive. It’s monotonous. And most of all it’s *frustrating.*
And throughout all of this we never treat him as something more than just ohhh an angry ex.
He is abusive!!!!!!!!!!!! He is as toxic as a piece of moldy cheese DIPPED in radioactive goo.
Stfu. This actually got me heatedddd.
Anthony: how could I not have known Simon was manipulating me into staying silent and not talking back to him? I’m so stupid!
Whatever his fucking name is: no you aren’t ❤️
Yeah you ****** are actually. Yes you are. (Sings) yeeesssss you are.
Oh Wyatt. That’s his name. He has the exact same voice as Anthony. Their povs are the same. They don’t even have distinct character voices. They just talk like a normal human being….
THERES. NO. CHARACTERIZATION.
It’s dull. I can’t believe there’s like, 500 pages of this. I can’t believe I sat there and READ all of that.
When people say it’s dragged out, they are not lying.
They literally act like boyfriends and go on a date and are STILL. Omg wait do I like him? (50% in btw) have been caught checking each other out btw. Have lived together for weeks btw. GET ONNNNN
Omg wait he’s so hot wait no I can’t think that? (It’s been 35%.)
Wait do I…. Love him? (80%.)
No. It’s fucking preposterous. And you know what’s even MORE preposterous?
Their chemistry is like eating sandpaper. Dry as FUCK. they literally talk like… friends.
Me after they share their twentieth story about their pets .
This book is so fucking long. It’s so dry. There’s no flavour. The writing is also kinda bad…
Yeah I forgot to mention that. It’s mediocre as hell, and when I got pissed I forgot to give it grace. In gonna come out and say it!!!!!! There’s nothing interesting in the writing. At all.
The characters thoughts are so mediocre I’m dying. I feel nothing. I don’t even LIKE these characters ??? 500 pages btw.
The brother that was in two chapters who’s only personality traits were: vape, pissy, but loving had more intrigue than these two combined.
Maybe that’s being harsh, but after the tenth argument between Anthony and Simon, after the fourteenth time Wyatt goes “im a burden!” I’m dooooneeee
This book doesn’t really have groundbreaking rep for PTSD, homelessness or whatever else. It’s mediocre. I only gave it two stars cause it’s not atrocious. It’s just so… bleh.
Okay positive things?
Beginning was good.
um. Writing was passable.
Homeless character!! (Always love those)
Hockey!! (Also love that)
Man idk
They weren’t even codependent on each other ✌️
There’s no characterization. There’s nothinggggg. I’m just pissed as fuck. Anthony you’re stupid as hell and Simon is an abusive asshole. Wyatt. Be more interesting goddamn. The cats just act like stereotypical book cats, sassy and stupid. The dog is honestly pretty good ig (it’s just cause she’s a dog) the setting is mostly Anthony’s stupid mansion. It’s dull. You’re telling me yall live in a mansion and you stay in the fucking living room this whole time??? Where’s the pool??? Games room??? The goddamn basement?? A mezzanine even??
Two stars. Twoooo fucking stars.
Simon isn’t just an asshole.
He’s an ABUSIVE. TOXIC. PIECE OF SHIT.
And Anthony deadass is just like “Simon I want you to be happy 🥺. I’m sorry! We can’t work out :(“
Bitch. That is a grown ass man. Who’s manipulated you. Antagonized your friend/boyfriend. SPIED ON YOU. FINANCIALLY MANIPULATED YOU ??????? He deadass bought him a Ferrari with insurance that was too expensive, knowing Anthony wouldn’t even drive it because he was too scared to scratch it or whatever. Literally bought a million dollar mansion, even when Anthony was uncomfortable with the idea. Manipulated Anthony into not talking because they had to be in public soon—wants to start fights when Anthony is just talking to him.
and the fucking: “oh so it’s MY fault” every. Interaction.
Called Anthony’s rude ass names, accused Anthony of sleeping with him OVERRRR AND OVERRRR AGAIN.
It’s repetitive. It’s monotonous. And most of all it’s *frustrating.*
And throughout all of this we never treat him as something more than just ohhh an angry ex.
He is abusive!!!!!!!!!!!! He is as toxic as a piece of moldy cheese DIPPED in radioactive goo.
Stfu. This actually got me heatedddd.
Anthony: how could I not have known Simon was manipulating me into staying silent and not talking back to him? I’m so stupid!
Whatever his fucking name is: no you aren’t ❤️
Yeah you ****** are actually. Yes you are. (Sings) yeeesssss you are.
Oh Wyatt. That’s his name. He has the exact same voice as Anthony. Their povs are the same. They don’t even have distinct character voices. They just talk like a normal human being….
THERES. NO. CHARACTERIZATION.
It’s dull. I can’t believe there’s like, 500 pages of this. I can’t believe I sat there and READ all of that.
When people say it’s dragged out, they are not lying.
They literally act like boyfriends and go on a date and are STILL. Omg wait do I like him? (50% in btw) have been caught checking each other out btw. Have lived together for weeks btw. GET ONNNNN
Omg wait he’s so hot wait no I can’t think that? (It’s been 35%.)
Wait do I…. Love him? (80%.)
No. It’s fucking preposterous. And you know what’s even MORE preposterous?
Their chemistry is like eating sandpaper. Dry as FUCK. they literally talk like… friends.
Me after they share their twentieth story about their pets .
This book is so fucking long. It’s so dry. There’s no flavour. The writing is also kinda bad…
Yeah I forgot to mention that. It’s mediocre as hell, and when I got pissed I forgot to give it grace. In gonna come out and say it!!!!!! There’s nothing interesting in the writing. At all.
The characters thoughts are so mediocre I’m dying. I feel nothing. I don’t even LIKE these characters ??? 500 pages btw.
The brother that was in two chapters who’s only personality traits were: vape, pissy, but loving had more intrigue than these two combined.
Maybe that’s being harsh, but after the tenth argument between Anthony and Simon, after the fourteenth time Wyatt goes “im a burden!” I’m dooooneeee
This book doesn’t really have groundbreaking rep for PTSD, homelessness or whatever else. It’s mediocre. I only gave it two stars cause it’s not atrocious. It’s just so… bleh.
Okay positive things?
Beginning was good.
um. Writing was passable.
Homeless character!! (Always love those)
Hockey!! (Also love that)
Man idk
They weren’t even codependent on each other ✌️
There’s no characterization. There’s nothinggggg. I’m just pissed as fuck. Anthony you’re stupid as hell and Simon is an abusive asshole. Wyatt. Be more interesting goddamn. The cats just act like stereotypical book cats, sassy and stupid. The dog is honestly pretty good ig (it’s just cause she’s a dog) the setting is mostly Anthony’s stupid mansion. It’s dull. You’re telling me yall live in a mansion and you stay in the fucking living room this whole time??? Where’s the pool??? Games room??? The goddamn basement?? A mezzanine even??
Two stars. Twoooo fucking stars.
May 28, 2024
(3,75 stars rated up) Anthony Austin is a hockey player for the Seattle Bobcats who is not only a proudly out player but also in a loving relationship with one of his teammates, Simon Carson. With a big house in Medina that they bought together and two huge Maine Coons as pets, Anthony and Simon's relationship appears picture perfect. However, they've been living a lie ever since Simon moved out of their house six months ago. They’re still pretending to be a happy couple, keeping their separation a secret from everyone while they try to work on fixing their relationship—or rather, while Anthony tries to convince Simon to work on their relationship.
Wyatt Miller is a disabled veteran suffering from PTSD who has been living on the streets with his service dog, a Doberman named Lucy. With Seattle's weather turning worse and a cold snap forecasted, and with most of their belongings stolen, Wyatt becomes desperate to find a warm place for Lucy to stay. This brings him to a veterinary clinic where he stumbles upon Anthony, who finds himself offering the desperate homeless man and his dog a spare room to stay in.
Wyatt and Lucy meeting Anthony was nothing short of serendipitous and brought tears to my eyes at the beginning of the story. Anthony offers Wyatt and Lucy a place to stay for a few days, and during that time, they slowly get to know each other better.
It was really hard reading about Anthony and Simon's toxic relationship. While their reasons for pretending to still be together were backed up with somewhat believable excuses, I still wanted Anthony to be out of that uncomfortable situation, as it made for a tense reading experience. I also didn’t understand why Anthony kept forcing something that was clearly not working anymore. His relationship with Simon seemed effectively over the moment Simon moved out of their house, and their interactions had completely soured after that point.
I also felt quite apprehensive about what would happen when Wyatt and Lucy had to return to the streets, Wyatt's situation was presented as having no other option but living on the street. However, when we found out that, in addition to his parents, who were struggling with the weight of his father's terminal cancer, Wyatt also had two brothers who seemed to be doing okay in life, I really didn’t understand Wyatt’s reasons for not going back home or asking his family for help. I can't pretend to know what goes on in the mind of a homeless person, and I realize that shame can play a big part in keeping it a secret from your own family, but I really struggled to understand Wyatt’s reasoning, especially since he seemed more willing to give up Lucy, who meant the absolute world to him, than ask his family for help.
While I had my issues with this story, I still found it to be quite a compelling read. Unlike my recent m/m romance reads, Anthony and Wyatt's story didn't make me lose interest almost immediately after the beginning. I also adored the addition of pets to the story. I believe this is a standalone story, but the author will be part of a multi-author minor league hockey series, so I will be sure to check out their story in that series as well.
Themes: dual POV, hockey player/homeless veteran, character with an amputation, PTSD, pets/service dog, NHL
Wyatt Miller is a disabled veteran suffering from PTSD who has been living on the streets with his service dog, a Doberman named Lucy. With Seattle's weather turning worse and a cold snap forecasted, and with most of their belongings stolen, Wyatt becomes desperate to find a warm place for Lucy to stay. This brings him to a veterinary clinic where he stumbles upon Anthony, who finds himself offering the desperate homeless man and his dog a spare room to stay in.
Wyatt and Lucy meeting Anthony was nothing short of serendipitous and brought tears to my eyes at the beginning of the story. Anthony offers Wyatt and Lucy a place to stay for a few days, and during that time, they slowly get to know each other better.
It was really hard reading about Anthony and Simon's toxic relationship. While their reasons for pretending to still be together were backed up with somewhat believable excuses, I still wanted Anthony to be out of that uncomfortable situation, as it made for a tense reading experience. I also didn’t understand why Anthony kept forcing something that was clearly not working anymore. His relationship with Simon seemed effectively over the moment Simon moved out of their house, and their interactions had completely soured after that point.
I also felt quite apprehensive about what would happen when Wyatt and Lucy had to return to the streets, Wyatt's situation was presented as having no other option but living on the street. However, when we found out that, in addition to his parents, who were struggling with the weight of his father's terminal cancer, Wyatt also had two brothers who seemed to be doing okay in life, I really didn’t understand Wyatt’s reasons for not going back home or asking his family for help. I can't pretend to know what goes on in the mind of a homeless person, and I realize that shame can play a big part in keeping it a secret from your own family, but I really struggled to understand Wyatt’s reasoning, especially since he seemed more willing to give up Lucy, who meant the absolute world to him, than ask his family for help.
While I had my issues with this story, I still found it to be quite a compelling read. Unlike my recent m/m romance reads, Anthony and Wyatt's story didn't make me lose interest almost immediately after the beginning. I also adored the addition of pets to the story. I believe this is a standalone story, but the author will be part of a multi-author minor league hockey series, so I will be sure to check out their story in that series as well.
Themes: dual POV, hockey player/homeless veteran, character with an amputation, PTSD, pets/service dog, NHL
May 28, 2024
Well-written story, 1 really nice and 1 mostly sympathetic character, and main coon fluffballs playing basically the role of the 3r star of the book... what's not to like?
Well, there is always something, obviously:)
The narration in places has a somewhat didactic feel, e.g. when dealing with the topics of service dogs and homelessness, and though I don't mind much as I'm interested in these things, I still can't shake the feeling it could be done better and incorporated into the story mory smoothly, so you don't have this strong feeling of "let's take a break for a bit of PC now" which pulls you out of the flow.
The plotline concerning Anthony's boyfriend doesn't make much sense, his behavior changes according to author's need and it's not consistent.
And the biggest peeve for me - the fairy tale story feel. Wyatt is too big Cinderella in distress here, and I would really appreciate him being less passive. He's basically just sitting at home waiting for Anthony without lifting a finger to improve his own situation. Yes, he has PTSD and amputated leg, and yes, Anthony has a lot of money, so all the things impossible for Wyatt on his limited VA pension are no big deal for him. And there's nothing wrong to accept a help freely offered when you need it.
Still, it would be nice to see Wyatt searching for a job, thinking about his options, spending his time in different way than just watching TV - even if jobs are scarce and options are limited, at least I want to be shown this instead of told in few short words, so he looks like an active participant in his own life and not just a passenger in a train driven by someone else. And this passivity is absolutely the worst when it regards his family, and it takes away a lot of my sympathy for him and makes me feel that Anthony could do a lot better.
May 23, 2024
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
I am not usually one for sports romances. Just not a sports fan. But Anthony and Wyatt just called my name. Wyatt is a disabled Army vet who lost his leg. Through the all too true nightmare of the VA and some plain bad luck, he has ended up homeless on the streets with his incredibly loved dog, Lily. Right away, when his entire concern was his dog, to the point he was willing to give her to a no kill shelter just to make sure she was okay in the harsh winter. Never mind that he’s freezing also. This is how Wyatt meets Anthony. Anthony, hockey player for the Seattle Bobcats, hears Wyatt begging a vet for Lily to have a warm place to stay. Anthony is so lovely and can’t stand the idea of someone struggling like that. “But if she shouldn’t be sleeping out there, then neither should you.” Anthony has Maine Coon cats, Bear and Moose, that he loves dearly so he knows what putting your pets first is like.
Anthony offers his spare room and Wyatt is incredibly grateful. Wyatt feels he has nothing to give, while Anthony is slowly becoming entranced with this battle-scarred, kind man. What throws a wrench into the works is Anthony’s ex-boyfriend and teammate, Simon. When Simon and Anthony got together they were given a lot of shit about it from their team managers and admin. Knowing that it would come to a bad end if they let anyone know they were no longer together, they’ve been playing the charade that everything is great. Simon is the one who left, wanting space and not wanting Anthony, so he moved to an apartment. Anthony stayed in their house. They are leading separate lives, except Simon has to pick Anthony up for practice and games so no one catches on, and when they are on the road they are still assigned the same room. It is incredibly difficult. Anthony has tried to make things work, but Simon doesn’t want to, and he also doesn’t want either of them to move on.
There is also the added specter of this unbelievably skanky tabloid reporter, Cole Tandy. Way back in the day my aunt was an avid National Enquirer reader and would pass them on to me. We would laugh at the ridiculous, skating-the-line of satire, in each magazine. Cole Tandy makes the reporters for the Enquirer look like Anderson Cooper. The entire team hates Tandy. “….he’d rather lick every teammate’s mouthguard than give Cole Tandy the time of day.” So there is always the fear that Tandy will find out what’s really going on.
They are sweet together and also funny. “There’s a café near here that I really like that doesn’t charge an…” Anthony is mortified by it, but Wyatt takes it in stride. “I’m assuming they don’t charge an arm and a leg?” This is a slow burn relationship. The don’t jump in to anything before they have gotten to know each other and I appreciated that. . I loved seeing how the two of them were working through all the baggage that they both have.
I’ll admit, for the life of me I couldn’t figure out why Anthony was ever with Simon. Anthony is kind, good-hearted, and caring. Simon, at least at this stage, is none of those things. I tried to be sympathetic to him because the club really did put a ton of pressure on these two, but his words and actions over and over made me want to slap him. When he gets a comeuppance for his assholery I wanted to cheer!
Hockey fans will appreciate that aspect more than me, and I still loved it! I would definitely recommend giving Anthony and Wyatt a chance.
I am not usually one for sports romances. Just not a sports fan. But Anthony and Wyatt just called my name. Wyatt is a disabled Army vet who lost his leg. Through the all too true nightmare of the VA and some plain bad luck, he has ended up homeless on the streets with his incredibly loved dog, Lily. Right away, when his entire concern was his dog, to the point he was willing to give her to a no kill shelter just to make sure she was okay in the harsh winter. Never mind that he’s freezing also. This is how Wyatt meets Anthony. Anthony, hockey player for the Seattle Bobcats, hears Wyatt begging a vet for Lily to have a warm place to stay. Anthony is so lovely and can’t stand the idea of someone struggling like that. “But if she shouldn’t be sleeping out there, then neither should you.” Anthony has Maine Coon cats, Bear and Moose, that he loves dearly so he knows what putting your pets first is like.
Anthony offers his spare room and Wyatt is incredibly grateful. Wyatt feels he has nothing to give, while Anthony is slowly becoming entranced with this battle-scarred, kind man. What throws a wrench into the works is Anthony’s ex-boyfriend and teammate, Simon. When Simon and Anthony got together they were given a lot of shit about it from their team managers and admin. Knowing that it would come to a bad end if they let anyone know they were no longer together, they’ve been playing the charade that everything is great. Simon is the one who left, wanting space and not wanting Anthony, so he moved to an apartment. Anthony stayed in their house. They are leading separate lives, except Simon has to pick Anthony up for practice and games so no one catches on, and when they are on the road they are still assigned the same room. It is incredibly difficult. Anthony has tried to make things work, but Simon doesn’t want to, and he also doesn’t want either of them to move on.
There is also the added specter of this unbelievably skanky tabloid reporter, Cole Tandy. Way back in the day my aunt was an avid National Enquirer reader and would pass them on to me. We would laugh at the ridiculous, skating-the-line of satire, in each magazine. Cole Tandy makes the reporters for the Enquirer look like Anderson Cooper. The entire team hates Tandy. “….he’d rather lick every teammate’s mouthguard than give Cole Tandy the time of day.” So there is always the fear that Tandy will find out what’s really going on.
They are sweet together and also funny. “There’s a café near here that I really like that doesn’t charge an…” Anthony is mortified by it, but Wyatt takes it in stride. “I’m assuming they don’t charge an arm and a leg?” This is a slow burn relationship. The don’t jump in to anything before they have gotten to know each other and I appreciated that. . I loved seeing how the two of them were working through all the baggage that they both have.
I’ll admit, for the life of me I couldn’t figure out why Anthony was ever with Simon. Anthony is kind, good-hearted, and caring. Simon, at least at this stage, is none of those things. I tried to be sympathetic to him because the club really did put a ton of pressure on these two, but his words and actions over and over made me want to slap him. When he gets a comeuppance for his assholery I wanted to cheer!
Hockey fans will appreciate that aspect more than me, and I still loved it! I would definitely recommend giving Anthony and Wyatt a chance.
June 1, 2024
3.5 stars
Hearing about Wyatt and Lily's time on the streets was SO heartbreaking. It also helped to shine a light on the very real issues a lot of our veterans are facing and how just showing a little kindness and decency can go a long way in helping those less fortunate feel more human again.
I'm not a cat person. But I LOVED Bear and Moose. Bear's questionable intelligence and Moose's haughty attitude had me laughing more than once. And then there's sweet, devoted Lily. She deserved all the spoiling she got.
I thought Wyatt and Anthony made a really good couple. Anthony's kind heart and generosity helped Wyatt get on his feet again, and Wyatt's attention and focus on Anthony's wellbeing showed Anthony what love was supposed to be like in a relationship.
Having said that, I do feel like the story was a bit too long. Once Wyatt was moved in, there really wasn't much angst or drama. My mind was coming up with all these potential scenarios like Wyatt and Lily having to go back to living on the streets while Anthony desperately tried to track them down again. Or Wyatt's homeless situation being discovered by the tabloids and used to somehow humiliate Anthony and/or discredit his relationship with Simon. But instead we basically got pages of their home life being described as Wyatt making breakfast and playing with the cats while Anthony was at hockey practice or a game. Or them watching hockey on tv and enjoying simple conversations when Anthony had time off. There were also so many repetitive thoughts going on about (1) how grateful Wyatt was for meeting Anthony and being given the opportunity to get off the streets, (2) Anthony wondering why he stayed in the relationship with Simon for so long because even though they just met, things with Wyatt were so much easier, and (3) Wyatt questioning what he could possibly contribute to a relationship with someone as wonderful as Anthony.
The whole drama with Simon and Anthony having to pretend to the outside world that they were still a happy couple (or risk one of them being traded to another team) seemed to go on for too long as well. They were both miserable and they seemed to have the same arguments over and over. It was no surprise to me how Simon found out about Anthony and Wyatt having a relationship. I suspected he was doing it all along. And Wyatt introducing Anthony as his boyfriend to his family wasn't exactly keeping things under wraps when Anthony was supposed to be in a committed relationship with Simon at the time.
I guess things just seemed too easy for Wyatt after Anthony brought him home. Anthony provided food and shelter, bought Wyatt clothes, a laptop and a new phone, replaced the stolen gear Wyatt and Lily used to survive on the streets, and even helped fund the charitable organization Wyatt eventually was involved with. And of course all of Anthony's teammates (with the exception of Simon) loved Wyatt and accepted him in their friend circle too. So yeah, stuff like that just made it drag a little when I was hoping for a bit more angst, but I did still enjoy it.
Hearing about Wyatt and Lily's time on the streets was SO heartbreaking. It also helped to shine a light on the very real issues a lot of our veterans are facing and how just showing a little kindness and decency can go a long way in helping those less fortunate feel more human again.
I'm not a cat person. But I LOVED Bear and Moose. Bear's questionable intelligence and Moose's haughty attitude had me laughing more than once. And then there's sweet, devoted Lily. She deserved all the spoiling she got.
I thought Wyatt and Anthony made a really good couple. Anthony's kind heart and generosity helped Wyatt get on his feet again, and Wyatt's attention and focus on Anthony's wellbeing showed Anthony what love was supposed to be like in a relationship.
Having said that, I do feel like the story was a bit too long. Once Wyatt was moved in, there really wasn't much angst or drama. My mind was coming up with all these potential scenarios like Wyatt and Lily having to go back to living on the streets while Anthony desperately tried to track them down again. Or Wyatt's homeless situation being discovered by the tabloids and used to somehow humiliate Anthony and/or discredit his relationship with Simon. But instead we basically got pages of their home life being described as Wyatt making breakfast and playing with the cats while Anthony was at hockey practice or a game. Or them watching hockey on tv and enjoying simple conversations when Anthony had time off. There were also so many repetitive thoughts going on about (1) how grateful Wyatt was for meeting Anthony and being given the opportunity to get off the streets, (2) Anthony wondering why he stayed in the relationship with Simon for so long because even though they just met, things with Wyatt were so much easier, and (3) Wyatt questioning what he could possibly contribute to a relationship with someone as wonderful as Anthony.
The whole drama with Simon and Anthony having to pretend to the outside world that they were still a happy couple (or risk one of them being traded to another team) seemed to go on for too long as well. They were both miserable and they seemed to have the same arguments over and over. It was no surprise to me how Simon found out about Anthony and Wyatt having a relationship. I suspected he was doing it all along. And Wyatt introducing Anthony as his boyfriend to his family wasn't exactly keeping things under wraps when Anthony was supposed to be in a committed relationship with Simon at the time.
I guess things just seemed too easy for Wyatt after Anthony brought him home. Anthony provided food and shelter, bought Wyatt clothes, a laptop and a new phone, replaced the stolen gear Wyatt and Lily used to survive on the streets, and even helped fund the charitable organization Wyatt eventually was involved with. And of course all of Anthony's teammates (with the exception of Simon) loved Wyatt and accepted him in their friend circle too. So yeah, stuff like that just made it drag a little when I was hoping for a bit more angst, but I did still enjoy it.
December 9, 2024
Enjoyable hockey player-unhomed vet, adorable service dog, awkward breakup with ex hurt-comfort romance. If only one MC’s motivations made sense…! But, the romance is lovely.
LA Witt deals well with thorny situations, and this is a great one. Out gay hockey player Anthony Austin is supposedly in a relationship with a teammate, but they’re under so much pressure to be the poster children for gays in a relationship in hockey that they haven’t told anyone they’re separated and struggling, and it’s taking a toll on Anthony’s game.
Veteran Wyatt Miller and his incredible service dog, Lily, are unhomed. Wyatt is begging a local vet clinic to keep Lily overnight/out of the freezing temperatures when the most unlikely person steps in to help—Anthony, who’s there with his two Maine coon cats.
Taking a stranger into his home is probably not wise, but Anthony decides he doesn’t care—this man’s devotion to his dog overcomes his doubts. And so begins a truly lovely romance, strangers to tentative friendship…but don’t worry, while there’s growing awareness on both sides, nothing at all happens until after Anthony and his boyfriend truly break up. Then all bets are off.
But meanwhile, these two getting to know each other—and each other’s pets! Holy moly the ADORABLE PETS!!!—this is a pet-lovers story. The cuteness is real. ANYWAY, ahem. They get to know and respect each other, despite their hugely disparate situations, forming the least likely yet somehow most likely relationship out of nowhere, and it is sweet, supportive, appreciative without any smarmy weirdness due to Anthony kinda rescuing Wyatt…it really feels healthy, though I feel weirdly like it shouldn’t? But they’re so respectful of each other and of boundaries that it worked for me. And once they finally gave in to the attraction... smokin' hot.
Anthony’s ex-to-be is a piece of work, gaslighting, avoiding, blaming everything on Anthony…but he somehow is just shy of caricature and made for a strong antagonist.
The only place the book falls down HARD is on Wyatt’s unhomed situation, because he’s got a loving, supportive family, including two brothers, who would have helped him at any time. Yes, his parents are going through a terrible time, and he didn’t want to burden them, but, his two brothers are fine and want to hear from him. I can understand pride getting in his way, but it was completely unbelievable that Wyatt would let Lily suffer, or that he’d give her up just because he couldn’t bear to admit what had happened to him. The way this man was characterized, just, no way. That was unbelievable. And that undercut the entire book.
It says a lot that I forgot to mention earlier that Wyatt is an amputee with a prosthetic leg. I did appreciate that that is part of his character, something he deals with organically but isn’t made a big focus for conflict. It just is.
HEA, hockey player, unhomed vet with a disability, strangers to friends to lovers, hurt-comfort read. No cheating, but, the a-hole ex-to-be creates problems. Don’t worry, he gets what’s coming to him in the end, people finally see through him. Totally safe for me. Recommended.
LA Witt deals well with thorny situations, and this is a great one. Out gay hockey player Anthony Austin is supposedly in a relationship with a teammate, but they’re under so much pressure to be the poster children for gays in a relationship in hockey that they haven’t told anyone they’re separated and struggling, and it’s taking a toll on Anthony’s game.
Veteran Wyatt Miller and his incredible service dog, Lily, are unhomed. Wyatt is begging a local vet clinic to keep Lily overnight/out of the freezing temperatures when the most unlikely person steps in to help—Anthony, who’s there with his two Maine coon cats.
Taking a stranger into his home is probably not wise, but Anthony decides he doesn’t care—this man’s devotion to his dog overcomes his doubts. And so begins a truly lovely romance, strangers to tentative friendship…but don’t worry, while there’s growing awareness on both sides, nothing at all happens until after Anthony and his boyfriend truly break up. Then all bets are off.
But meanwhile, these two getting to know each other—and each other’s pets! Holy moly the ADORABLE PETS!!!—this is a pet-lovers story. The cuteness is real. ANYWAY, ahem. They get to know and respect each other, despite their hugely disparate situations, forming the least likely yet somehow most likely relationship out of nowhere, and it is sweet, supportive, appreciative without any smarmy weirdness due to Anthony kinda rescuing Wyatt…it really feels healthy, though I feel weirdly like it shouldn’t? But they’re so respectful of each other and of boundaries that it worked for me. And once they finally gave in to the attraction... smokin' hot.
Anthony’s ex-to-be is a piece of work, gaslighting, avoiding, blaming everything on Anthony…but he somehow is just shy of caricature and made for a strong antagonist.
The only place the book falls down HARD is on Wyatt’s unhomed situation, because he’s got a loving, supportive family, including two brothers, who would have helped him at any time. Yes, his parents are going through a terrible time, and he didn’t want to burden them, but, his two brothers are fine and want to hear from him. I can understand pride getting in his way, but it was completely unbelievable that Wyatt would let Lily suffer, or that he’d give her up just because he couldn’t bear to admit what had happened to him. The way this man was characterized, just, no way. That was unbelievable. And that undercut the entire book.
It says a lot that I forgot to mention earlier that Wyatt is an amputee with a prosthetic leg. I did appreciate that that is part of his character, something he deals with organically but isn’t made a big focus for conflict. It just is.
HEA, hockey player, unhomed vet with a disability, strangers to friends to lovers, hurt-comfort read. No cheating, but, the a-hole ex-to-be creates problems. Don’t worry, he gets what’s coming to him in the end, people finally see through him. Totally safe for me. Recommended.
June 5, 2024
Interference
By: L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfectly kind together!
In yet another emotional and at times heartbreaking book from one of the in my opinion M/M authors we get Wyatt and Anthony’s book. These two are amazing together. While the book has a good amount of trepidation and sadness the issues aren’t between Wyatt and Anthony these two are good together. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfectly kind together!
In yet another emotional and at times heartbreaking book from one of the in my opinion M/M authors we get Wyatt and Anthony’s book. These two are amazing together. While the book has a good amount of trepidation and sadness the issues aren’t between Wyatt and Anthony these two are good together. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
May 28, 2024
Contemporary romance, hockey player/army veteran, rich/poor, disability representation.
Wyatt Miller is a veteran who served in the military for twelve years and was discharged after being wounded during his third combat tour. His injury resulted in the amputation of his right leg so he wears a prosthetic to get around. He suffers from PTSD and nightmares, which his service dog Lily helps alleviate. Wyatt has been homeless for the last six months after losing his job and being evicted from his apartment. His VA disability payments are not enough to keep a roof over his head and his family is unaware of his reduced circumstances. His dad is battling cancer so he does not want his parents to worry about him during this time.
Anthony Austin is a professional hockey player (defenseman) with the Seattle Bobcats. He has been in a three-year relationship with his teammate, Simon, which has been on the rocks for the past year or so. Simon moved out of their home six months ago and keeps avoiding any attempt by Anthony to save their relationship. They were the first "out" couple in the League and are under constant pressure to maintain their relationship in public, out of fear that a breakup could affect team cohesion and lead to one of them being traded to another team. Anthony has two massive Maine Coon cats named Moose and Bear.
Wyatt and Anthony's paths cross at the veterinary clinic. Anthony overhears Wyatt asking the receptionist if they can house Lily for the night as it is predicted to be a very chilly night and there is no shelter that will take him with Lily by his side. One thing leads to another and Wyatt finds himself staying with Anthony at his massive house for the next ten days. In due course, Anthony breaks up with Simon and he is free to explore his growing feelings for Wyatt.
This was a really heartwarming story and my favourite from the author so far. There was more content about pets than hockey and I am not really a pet person but I enjoyed their antics in this story. I did wonder what Anthony ever saw in Simon because he was a particularly nasty character but he did get his comeuppance in the end so all's well that ends well I suppose.
Wyatt Miller is a veteran who served in the military for twelve years and was discharged after being wounded during his third combat tour. His injury resulted in the amputation of his right leg so he wears a prosthetic to get around. He suffers from PTSD and nightmares, which his service dog Lily helps alleviate. Wyatt has been homeless for the last six months after losing his job and being evicted from his apartment. His VA disability payments are not enough to keep a roof over his head and his family is unaware of his reduced circumstances. His dad is battling cancer so he does not want his parents to worry about him during this time.
Anthony Austin is a professional hockey player (defenseman) with the Seattle Bobcats. He has been in a three-year relationship with his teammate, Simon, which has been on the rocks for the past year or so. Simon moved out of their home six months ago and keeps avoiding any attempt by Anthony to save their relationship. They were the first "out" couple in the League and are under constant pressure to maintain their relationship in public, out of fear that a breakup could affect team cohesion and lead to one of them being traded to another team. Anthony has two massive Maine Coon cats named Moose and Bear.
Wyatt and Anthony's paths cross at the veterinary clinic. Anthony overhears Wyatt asking the receptionist if they can house Lily for the night as it is predicted to be a very chilly night and there is no shelter that will take him with Lily by his side. One thing leads to another and Wyatt finds himself staying with Anthony at his massive house for the next ten days. In due course, Anthony breaks up with Simon and he is free to explore his growing feelings for Wyatt.
This was a really heartwarming story and my favourite from the author so far. There was more content about pets than hockey and I am not really a pet person but I enjoyed their antics in this story. I did wonder what Anthony ever saw in Simon because he was a particularly nasty character but he did get his comeuppance in the end so all's well that ends well I suppose.
June 13, 2024
I liked this book. It was fine. Sweet. Lovely. But there were two things I feel I should mention.
This book was long. I love long books. But if a book is long, stuff has to happen. And it… didn’t. Both characters were in a difficult place at the start of the book, but then throughout the whole book, pretty much only good things happened. I mean, in a short story, that’s acceptable. But if the book is over 500 pages, gotta have some kind of conflict or drama or it’s just… 534 pages of fluff and my teeth are gonna fall out because it was way too sweet.
I loved the themes in this book. The relationship-within-a-sports-team-gone-wrong was fantastic because usually we get the HEA point of view. The homeless and disabled veteran theme was also fantastic, and it was done pretty well EXCEPT that at times it felt very “teachy”, which was not particularly enjoyable. Thinking back, I don’t think it was anything Wyatt said that made it feel teachy; it was more Anthony’s “omg you’re right! I never realised this!” responses to absolutely everything. I also don’t think this response was entirely believable. Anthony was kinda rich and entitled, and I think for some of it a more defensive/unhelpful problem solving response would have been more realistic. I mean, yeah, he would have looked like a bit of a muppet, but that’s the first step towards learning better.
P.S. Characters don’t have to be perfect, even if you love them. They’re more relatable if they make mistakes and develop/grow/learn over time.
And there was one thing I feel I should not mention but I’m gonna anyway. It’s not actually a spoiler, but
This book was long. I love long books. But if a book is long, stuff has to happen. And it… didn’t. Both characters were in a difficult place at the start of the book, but then throughout the whole book, pretty much only good things happened. I mean, in a short story, that’s acceptable. But if the book is over 500 pages, gotta have some kind of conflict or drama or it’s just… 534 pages of fluff and my teeth are gonna fall out because it was way too sweet.
I loved the themes in this book. The relationship-within-a-sports-team-gone-wrong was fantastic because usually we get the HEA point of view. The homeless and disabled veteran theme was also fantastic, and it was done pretty well EXCEPT that at times it felt very “teachy”, which was not particularly enjoyable. Thinking back, I don’t think it was anything Wyatt said that made it feel teachy; it was more Anthony’s “omg you’re right! I never realised this!” responses to absolutely everything. I also don’t think this response was entirely believable. Anthony was kinda rich and entitled, and I think for some of it a more defensive/unhelpful problem solving response would have been more realistic. I mean, yeah, he would have looked like a bit of a muppet, but that’s the first step towards learning better.
P.S. Characters don’t have to be perfect, even if you love them. They’re more relatable if they make mistakes and develop/grow/learn over time.
And there was one thing I feel I should not mention but I’m gonna anyway. It’s not actually a spoiler, but
June 16, 2024
The author can be a hit and miss for me. This one is definitely a miss.
I get that there are non-confrontational people, but when someone can't even stand up and advocate for themselves, they a little bit deserve their own situation. And Anthony is very much in this category.
The way the animals were treated was not unrealistic, I know a lot of people do this, but it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine. Pets should not eat people food. Especially not when people are eating people food. Give them cat/dog treats. Or if you really want to feed them whatever you are eating, give it to them before or after you eat. Otherwise don't be surprised when they steal your food. And don't be surprised when they steal your food that may be poisonous for them. Also the counter is no place for a cat. And they can be taught that. I've had cats my whole life, none of them jumped on the counter. So yeah, I know there are people who do this, but can we at least not advertise and normalize the behavior?
The dialogues made me feel like I was watching a really bad movie. They were forced and inane... And every repetition felt like my soul was being killed little by little. Because Anthony was such a great person. Even though he had money and had no material need, he was kind. Wyatt was so greatful that he ran into him when he did, because he is such a nice guy... And on the other hand, Anthony really fought for his relationship, unlike Simon. He really wanted to make it work, unlike Simon. He was really conflicted about the end of their relationship, unlike Simon...
And the messages... We were just being hit in the face with them over and over again. It is really hard to be a veteran, it is really hard to be homeless, there are people who are cruel with the homeless. And just to be sure about the correct reaction to this, we get Anthony's example, who didn't even know and is outraged by this. Man, where have you lived your whole life?
So yeah, my issues had issues with this one. Meh, onto the next.
I get that there are non-confrontational people, but when someone can't even stand up and advocate for themselves, they a little bit deserve their own situation. And Anthony is very much in this category.
The way the animals were treated was not unrealistic, I know a lot of people do this, but it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine. Pets should not eat people food. Especially not when people are eating people food. Give them cat/dog treats. Or if you really want to feed them whatever you are eating, give it to them before or after you eat. Otherwise don't be surprised when they steal your food. And don't be surprised when they steal your food that may be poisonous for them. Also the counter is no place for a cat. And they can be taught that. I've had cats my whole life, none of them jumped on the counter. So yeah, I know there are people who do this, but can we at least not advertise and normalize the behavior?
The dialogues made me feel like I was watching a really bad movie. They were forced and inane... And every repetition felt like my soul was being killed little by little. Because Anthony was such a great person. Even though he had money and had no material need, he was kind. Wyatt was so greatful that he ran into him when he did, because he is such a nice guy... And on the other hand, Anthony really fought for his relationship, unlike Simon. He really wanted to make it work, unlike Simon. He was really conflicted about the end of their relationship, unlike Simon...
And the messages... We were just being hit in the face with them over and over again. It is really hard to be a veteran, it is really hard to be homeless, there are people who are cruel with the homeless. And just to be sure about the correct reaction to this, we get Anthony's example, who didn't even know and is outraged by this. Man, where have you lived your whole life?
So yeah, my issues had issues with this one. Meh, onto the next.
December 31, 2025
I absolutely love the way L.A. Witt writes, and Interference reminded me exactly why. She writes such amazing MM romances. I know some reviewers have said this one felt too long, but honestly? I didn’t feel that way at all. The length felt necessary, because it gave Anthony and Wyatt the space they needed for a true slow burnwith all that tension, longing, and yearning had room to breathe. And wow, did it pay off.
Wyatt’s situation as a disabled veteran doing everything he can just to survive and protect his service dog hit me especially hard. As a veteran with PTSD myself, I really appreciated how respectfully and realistically Witt handled that part of the story. It wasn’t glamorized and it wasn’t brushed aside. It was heavy at times, yes, but it felt raw, real, and honest in a way that really mattered to me.
And then there’s Anthony, who looks like he has everything from the outside, stepping in simply because he can’t stand to see Wyatt and Lily suffer. I loved how kind and steady he was with Wyatt, and how their connection grows so slowly and carefully. You really feel every look, every small moment of trust, every shift from strangers to something deeper. It’s a slow burn in the best, most satisfying way.
This story is sad at times, and emotional, and messy in the way life can be, but it’s also beautiful. It’s about compassion, healing, and finding love and safety when you least expect it. Lily completely owns a piece of my heart too!
If you like hockey romances, military romances, or just deeply human love stories that don’t shy away from hard topics, I think this one is absolutely worth the read. For me, the length wasn’t a drawback, but instead was what allowed the story and characters to feel so fully lived in. And L.A. Witt handled PTSD with care and authenticity that meant a lot to me.
Raw, emotional, slow burn, and beautiful... I loved this book.
Wyatt’s situation as a disabled veteran doing everything he can just to survive and protect his service dog hit me especially hard. As a veteran with PTSD myself, I really appreciated how respectfully and realistically Witt handled that part of the story. It wasn’t glamorized and it wasn’t brushed aside. It was heavy at times, yes, but it felt raw, real, and honest in a way that really mattered to me.
And then there’s Anthony, who looks like he has everything from the outside, stepping in simply because he can’t stand to see Wyatt and Lily suffer. I loved how kind and steady he was with Wyatt, and how their connection grows so slowly and carefully. You really feel every look, every small moment of trust, every shift from strangers to something deeper. It’s a slow burn in the best, most satisfying way.
This story is sad at times, and emotional, and messy in the way life can be, but it’s also beautiful. It’s about compassion, healing, and finding love and safety when you least expect it. Lily completely owns a piece of my heart too!
If you like hockey romances, military romances, or just deeply human love stories that don’t shy away from hard topics, I think this one is absolutely worth the read. For me, the length wasn’t a drawback, but instead was what allowed the story and characters to feel so fully lived in. And L.A. Witt handled PTSD with care and authenticity that meant a lot to me.
Raw, emotional, slow burn, and beautiful... I loved this book.
July 23, 2024
This one gave me the warm and fuzzies. It’s a hurt/comfort slow burn focused on Wyatt, a homeless disabled veteran, and Anthony, the hockey player who helps him off the streets. And, of course, the world’s most adorable service dog and a pair of mischievous giant cats.
Some people might be turned off by the fact that Anthony spends a very big chunk of the book in a relationship with Simon, his teammate, but it’s important to emphasize that there is no love triangle and no cheating, physical or emotional. Anthony’s and Simon’s relationship is on the rocks way before Wyatt, but as long as they are together, nothing remotely romantic happens between Anthony and Wyatt.
In fact, my favorite part of this book is how much it takes its time to build their relationship from a solid friendship to something more. There’s physical attraction from relatively early on, but it’s them getting closer and leaning on each other that builds it into full-on feelings. The fact that there is no conflict between them also helps shape it into a dynamic that feels solid and genuine. The sexual tension is pretty well done as well — I had butterflies in my belly on their first kiss.
There are only a couple of things I think could’ve been better, but they are both very minor. One, I think the author leaned too hard on a villainous arc for Simon only to have it all be fine in the epilogue — I could’ve bought the therapy and apology had Simon not been such an unforgivable shit only two chapters ago, and it felt like the author wanted to have the cake and eat it too. The second is just the epilogue in general; too syrupy, with everything working all a little bit too perfectly. It was sweet, but I think it would’ve felt more special had it been a little more grounded.
All in all, a great read that reminded me I really want to find more hurt/comfort reads.
Some people might be turned off by the fact that Anthony spends a very big chunk of the book in a relationship with Simon, his teammate, but it’s important to emphasize that there is no love triangle and no cheating, physical or emotional. Anthony’s and Simon’s relationship is on the rocks way before Wyatt, but as long as they are together, nothing remotely romantic happens between Anthony and Wyatt.
In fact, my favorite part of this book is how much it takes its time to build their relationship from a solid friendship to something more. There’s physical attraction from relatively early on, but it’s them getting closer and leaning on each other that builds it into full-on feelings. The fact that there is no conflict between them also helps shape it into a dynamic that feels solid and genuine. The sexual tension is pretty well done as well — I had butterflies in my belly on their first kiss.
There are only a couple of things I think could’ve been better, but they are both very minor. One, I think the author leaned too hard on a villainous arc for Simon only to have it all be fine in the epilogue — I could’ve bought the therapy and apology had Simon not been such an unforgivable shit only two chapters ago, and it felt like the author wanted to have the cake and eat it too. The second is just the epilogue in general; too syrupy, with everything working all a little bit too perfectly. It was sweet, but I think it would’ve felt more special had it been a little more grounded.
All in all, a great read that reminded me I really want to find more hurt/comfort reads.
October 17, 2025
Longest 3.5🌟book EVER!!!!
The narrator choosing to leverage a rather monotone style for 2 of the 3 MMC voices was almost mind-numbing, but I was committed to sticking it out.
Yes, it took almost 4 weeks to get'r dun, but it's dun.
⚠️Potential Spoilers Below⚠️
Would I read it again...no.
Was it a delightful read in small increments....yes.
Like so many other reviewers, do I also believe this could have been a shorter book...HELL YEAH!!! Or rather, if all of those pages are a must-have, how about not spending soooooo many pages on world building. Maybe, instead, some of those pages would have been better utlized providing the reader with more time in the MMCs HEA storyline because they DEFINITELY deserved more time being happy in this book after all the shyte they went through in less than one hockey season. Hell, having read about soooo much sadness, desperation, and trauma on page after page, we all deserved more time in the "happy, happy, joy, joy" HEA afterglow. OMGEEEEEEEE!!!
And the Epilogue time jump didn't make any of this better. Yes, a few major questions were resolved BUT the reader was left to their own devices to navigate how the MMCs might have landed there. Ijs, if I read a book that has over 500 pages and an audiobook that's almost 15 hours long, I shouldn't have to surmise much of anything. lol There is more than enough real estate between those book covers to lay it all out on front street.
Will I read another LA Witt creation...IDK. Going to have to think about that one.
Sweet book nonetheless.
I wish nothing but the best for Anthony, Wyatt, each member of their nature trail loving minagerie...and even Simon and his new BF.
The narrator choosing to leverage a rather monotone style for 2 of the 3 MMC voices was almost mind-numbing, but I was committed to sticking it out.
Yes, it took almost 4 weeks to get'r dun, but it's dun.
⚠️Potential Spoilers Below⚠️
Would I read it again...no.
Was it a delightful read in small increments....yes.
Like so many other reviewers, do I also believe this could have been a shorter book...HELL YEAH!!! Or rather, if all of those pages are a must-have, how about not spending soooooo many pages on world building. Maybe, instead, some of those pages would have been better utlized providing the reader with more time in the MMCs HEA storyline because they DEFINITELY deserved more time being happy in this book after all the shyte they went through in less than one hockey season. Hell, having read about soooo much sadness, desperation, and trauma on page after page, we all deserved more time in the "happy, happy, joy, joy" HEA afterglow. OMGEEEEEEEE!!!
And the Epilogue time jump didn't make any of this better. Yes, a few major questions were resolved BUT the reader was left to their own devices to navigate how the MMCs might have landed there. Ijs, if I read a book that has over 500 pages and an audiobook that's almost 15 hours long, I shouldn't have to surmise much of anything. lol There is more than enough real estate between those book covers to lay it all out on front street.
Will I read another LA Witt creation...IDK. Going to have to think about that one.
Sweet book nonetheless.
I wish nothing but the best for Anthony, Wyatt, each member of their nature trail loving minagerie...and even Simon and his new BF.
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