Neutral Zone

Harrisburg Railers #6.1

by R.J. Scott, V.L. Locey

Tennant Rowe has it all, a boyfriend he adores, a loving family, and a career on the rise. He’s sure of his place in the world, and the future can only get brighter. Then one night, in a flash of skates and sticks, life changes forever. Getting back on the ice is Ten’s priority, and experts tell him that it’s just a matter of time.

Jared watches his lover fall in more ways than one, and when tragedy strikes, even the strongest of relationships are tested. Ten is strong, but Jared has to be stronger to help the man who holds his heart. Only, he has to admit that maybe it isn’t just him who can make Ten whole again.

Jared and Ten’s love is forever, but the rocky path to the romantic Christmas Jared had planned may be hard to travel.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Sports, Hockey, Holiday, Contemporary, LGBT

90 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 25, 2018

About the author

RJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk

Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's getting to be that time of the year and what better way to start the holiday reading season than spending Christmas with the Railers!!! Full review to follow soonish!

‘Tis the season to play hockey…fahlalalalalalalala…

Can you all believe it? It’s getting to be that time of year again and no, I’m not just talking about hockey season…Christmas is coming and I admit I love reading Christmas stories but really as a Canadian I have to say there’s nothing better than a Christmas story about hockey players and when it involves the characters from a series that I’ve been enjoying throughout the past year…well does it get any better? I think not.

First off though if you haven’t read R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey’s ‘Harrisburg Railers’ series…what are you waiting for? It’s Christmas time treat yourself to something good because you’re going to want to read the rest of the series first if you really want to enjoy this one and this one is worth enjoying.
‘Neutral Zone’ is a chance to revisit Ten and Mads (that’s Tennant Rowe & Jared Madsen). We first met Ten and Mad in ‘Changing Lines’ book one in this series and they’ve appeared on an off throughout the series but here in ‘Neutral Zone’ we get to catch up with them following a hockey related accident that has turned their world on end (you need to read ‘Goal Line’) for the details about this.

With Ten off in Arizona working hard to put himself back together and Mads back in Harrisburg giving it all he’s got to be the strong and supportive boyfriend that Ten needs it’s going to take everything that they’ve both got to keep their lives on track but neither man is willing to give it anything less than 110%. They’re both strong and fighters.

Basically, I loved…seriously LOVED this story. For me Christmas is about family, it’s about faith and hope, it’s about love and most of all a time for miracles even the ones that we make for ourselves. Ironically what I loved the most about this story was the fact that the only real miracle in this story was the miracle of love (yeah, I know I’m sappy). Ten’s struggles didn’t magically go away or get better or even easier but he’s a strong and determined young man and it’s with the love and support of his family and Mads the man who means the world to him that he finds the strength to keep working to keep fighting and believe in himself.

‘Neutral Zone’ was a perfect start to my holiday reading season and while I didn’t get to catch up with all the Railers…we got a Stan fix!!! and of all the Railers their hulking big Russian goalie of a teddy bear is definitely one of my favorites and he never fails to make me smile. If you’re a fan of this series you going to wan to read this one and if you haven’t had the Railers experience yet…seriously check it out this is one awesome hockey team and they’re not even Canadian, seriously can you imagine how cool are they?

*************************

An ARC of ‘Neutral Zone’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a perfect festive read as it has the necessary pathos to make the joy just ring out and warm even the coldest of hearts.

Jared is struggling, and it broke my heart to see him not know how to be there for Ten while, at the same time, support the worries of everyone else who loves the young ice hockey star.

The way the incident the brain injury which Ten suffered by way of a malicious hit in the previous Railers book is handled in an ongoing way is done through clever narrative and through some clever editing and formatting tricks and it works superbly well.

There's lots of good bits to go with the struggles though. Stan, ever wonderful Stan, is just absolutely top of the game in this one, he brought so many smiles to my face which went a long way to ease a bit of the heartache.

Loved every bit of this and cannot wait for more!

#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.

[Christelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

For all the fans of the Harrisburg Railers series, a sport MM romance series where the reader gets to know each player of this great Hockey team and follow their falling in love.

This Christmas novella is not a standalone “per se” : it’s better to have previously read at least books #1, 4 and 6 of that series as well as Ryker, the first instalment of a spin-off series, to fully enjoy this addition.

And let me say that I once again fondly appreciated this story! First, because I got again a focus on Ten and Jared, the first couple introduced in this series, one of my favorite. Then, I got to discover how they deal after the stunning twist RJ Scott and VL Locey pulled out in “Goal Line” (book#6) : with strength and determination but also fear and vulnerabilities, cementing their love in the process.

Age-gap, not a lot of steam (under the circumstances, it’s not surprising) but still a lot of chemistry between these 2, a light dose of Hockey times, a touch of friendship among and from the team, especially Stan being…well, “Stan” to my delight, and of family gatherings.

RJ Scott and VL Locey are a great team : their writing flows with a nice dynamics and they draw endearing characters. I warmed up quite fast for this series and am now totally on board, so it’s no surprise when I say I will be there to get more in a few months with Stan being the front star.


An ARC of “Neutral Zone” was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Edga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot express how much I loved this story. If you've not read the Harrisburg Railers series, start now; it's so good.

Got to be honest, I was so heartsick after what happened to Ten in an earlier book in the series, I really needed this one. What we got is a beautiful story of real love and the power it wields. Ten and Jared are so swoon worthy together, I swear I had tears in my eyes on occasion, whilst I was reading this. I loved the support they gave each other, and doubt that things would've worked out as they did, if they hadn't have had each other.

It is a beautiful addition to the series, with guys who really love each other and were willing to do whatever they could to support one another. I also loved the support they got from family and friends. Stan's there too, just being 'Stan', which was perfect, as far as I was concerned. There's also, of course, some scene stealing news from said Stan, which sets up the next book in the series. Can't wait!

A well written and excellent story, perfect for a fangirl who's become super invested in both the characters and the storyline. Loved it. I totally and highly recommend this series, a great read from two authors who know what their fans truly want.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhh I love these guys so. Freaking. Much. This novella picks up after the, er, unfortunate events of the last Railers book and Ryker.. and I admit, I was nervous going into this. I have been a huge Ten fan since the beginning of this series, and what happened hurt my heart. But this novella? Wonderful.

It is difficult to see Ten struggle so much with things that most of us take for granted and to see how strained Jared is with everything going on, but this story is full of hope and healing and love and family and friends, and it is exactly what I needed. No matter what struggles they go through, Ten and Jared's love and devotion to each other shine. I smiled a lot through this book. Also maybe shed a tear or two, but what can I say? These guys, and these authors, give me all the feels. And Stan is a GEM. Seriously, he is amazing, and I cannot wait for his and Erik's novella!

[LeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been impatiently waiting for this book to come out. One might even say....extremely ...but what can I say? I love Ten and Mads and all the Railers and their partners and NEED to read about them a.s.a.p.
It's so hard to read about a character you have grown to love, have to deal with everything Ten has had to since the tragic event on the ice. Watching his boyfriend Mads try to be strong for him as well as Ten's family and the team. For Mads things get to be overwhelming and he has to draw a new line and let out how he is feeling about it all.
Watching, and I do mean that, as with the amazing writing I can visualize what is written, Ten go through rehab, fight for some words and try to get back both physically and mentally to where he was before, at times was hard to do. Several times I teared up while reading his and Mads story. For both Ten and Mads have to deal with the end results of what happened to Ten.
The love these two share...the commitment and dedication to each other and their future, both as partners but Railers as well, is so beautiful to see. The way Tens family and teammates rally around these two men..wow.
We get to see quite a few of the men from the series of books and Ryker and his Jacob also make an appearance.
That is all you are getting out of me. You MUST read this book and make sure to have tissues handy because you will need them at certain points.
To say I loved this story is a HUGE understatement.
Always remember...Love Is Love!
I was given an ARC for my honest review.

[JustJen "Miss Conduct" · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series began with Ten and Mads, and with Ten being the star player and Mads being the defensive coach, their characters are present and play important roles throughout the various other players’ stories. I can’t imagine anyone reading this series (which must be read as a whole) not being devastated by the injuries Ten sustained at the end of the previous book, so to see another story with them as the focus had me a tad excited. As expected, Ten is still recovering, and Mads is trying to told it together in his absence as he recovers at a top notch rehabilitation facility in Arizona. Suffice to say, things are taking a toll on each of them.

Ten is struggling with his recovery, or more importantly, how difficult it has been, that he isn’t back to normal at supersonic speed and holding on to the hope of skating again. He’s extremely determined, but when things are just simply out of his control (as is the case with his brain injury), his frustration continues to grow. Mads, on the other hand, is struggling to be supportive but not overprotective, to maintain the business-as-usual routine at work, keeping his guys focused and in line when they are all still reeling a bit about what happened. He is still freaking out a bit inside about what happened and almost losing Ten, and having to be there for the entire family is putting a lot of added pressure on him.

What Ten and Mads mean to each other is never in question, but their struggles make them seem a bit more human. I absolutely love these guys, love the side characters (almost all of them :)) and love this series as a whole. So many of the teammates are important friends now and part of the overall family. It is always great to see them again and to be reminded of their own stories. Stan is one of my favorites, and it looks like there’s another chapter to his story coming up, as well as another in the side series that showed us Ryker’s (Mads’ son) story. I hope these authors keep this series going, because it has continued to keep my interest and excitement and I definitely recommend giving it a try.

Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is the book we’ve been waiting for, following up on Ten and his recovery after being injured. Book 6, Goal Line, needs to be read before this. The first book of the new spinoff series, Owatonna U, about Jared’s son Ryker, fills in interim details after the accident but isn’t necessary to read. With speech and motor skill problems, Ten chooses to travel to the best rehab center he can find because he’s determined to play again, refusing to accept never returning to the game. It’s far away from Jared and the team and both men struggle with loneliness and distance. As one would expect, recovery from such trauma takes time and it hit me right in the feels when Ten hits low points when it seems he’ll never speak properly much less get back on the ice. Jared’s coaching and temper is affected by the worries he hides, not wanting to show Ten anything but strength and support.

I loved how this unfolded with very realistic details about fears both Jared and Ten have but never wallowing in drama. Ten and Jared don’t fall apart; their determination to be together is stronger than ever, no matter what. The authors are quite adept at adding sweetness to balance the less positive elements in the narrative but never gets too sappy or cheesy around the holiday theme. There are some pleasant surprises in store. Stan, my favorite character, likely everyone’s favorite character, makes his presence known at points throughout the story for some extra humor and lightness. He’s got a surprise coming for us in the next story. The epilogue is absolutely wonderful and the future appears quite hopeful. This is such an excellent hockey series and I will follow as long as it continues, which I hope will last a very long time!

*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for JessieGBooks*

[~nikki the recovering book addict · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was actually a really lovely novella. To catch up with Ten again after his horrific injury. I enjoyed it!

[Emily Seelye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This holiday themed novella is the seventh in the series and not a stand alone. You need to have read either the previous book (I didn’t) or Ryker (which I did).

It’s Christmas and Ten is temporarily home from rehab after a head injury. He and Jared are trying to make the most of their time together.

It’s on the sweet and loving side, with a nice happy surprise ending.

I loved this. I was a little worried about the relationship after reading the blurb, but my fears were unfounded.

*ARC provided by authors

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg you guys!!! 😏😍😍😭😘😏❤🤩😍❤❤❤❤❤

[CrabbyPatty · Rating 5 out of 5]

FYI - this is not a stand-alone book and you'll want to read at least Book #1 and #6 in the Harrisburg Railers Hockey series (and maybe Ryker Book #1 in the Owatonna U Hockey series) to get the background on Mads and Ten.

Ten is in rehab recovering from a brain injury (suffered at the end of Book #6) and Mads is back home in Harrisburg with the team. There's a beautiful balance here between Mads wanting to wrap Ten in bubble wrap and protect him from harm while hoping that Ten will return with confidence to his former glory on the ice. And Ten struggles with loneliness and the fear that he will never regain fluent speech/thought or balance sufficient to return to hockey.

But all this worry is firmly grounded in the abundant love and admiration that Mads and Ten have for one another. I love how there is little manufactured angst here, but rather a lovely mix of hockey, family, hope and love (with a low steam level, which feels appropriate here). I highly recommend reading "Neutral Zone" and give it 4.5 stars.

I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews

[JenMcJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short read and since I was really enjoying it, it went by too fast. Ten and Rowe need to find a new normal. Some of it will be temporary and some of it won't and trying to get to a place where either feels in control is a struggle.

This was a nice slice of life for both men as Ten attempts to overcome his TBI as well as maintain their life. This book was mostly all storytelling that moves the couple forward since there was hardly any sex. It was nice.

Waiting on the next one.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Railers is my favorite hockey team to date and as someone who had a hard time letting go and moving on, I couldn't be happier to have this Christmas theme novella. Spoiler ahead for those who have not read this series before.

Tennent is recovering from his injury, is going to be a long journey ahead of him and although I was shocked when it happened and sad after that, I also want to see how Trent put things in perspective. Ten did mentioned about seeing all the veteran athletes who long suffered long term brain damage and at one point he was worried about Jared, so I kind of thinking he might have second thoughts about returning on ice. But no, Ten just want to get back and that's final. I can understand his passion for the sport that had consumed his whole life, but I also want to see him planning for more, something beyond the sport that might giving him permanent damage. Or maybe I just want to see what's their life after he retired from hockey.

Apart from reading about Ten recovery, we also get some really sappy and loving moment between him and Jared and let just say it was definitely a sweet HEA, a celebration with their family and the team. I heard Stan is getting another novella and I just kinda squee. I don't know when I can stop reading about this team, maybe never.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t know this book was going to be a Christmas one! It was a nice surprise.

I would have loved if it was longer. I was expecting it to be longer because Ten went through such a huge accident and then had to deal with the issues and how to get back on ice.

I was cheering and hoping he could get back on ice because hockey means so much to Ten. His injury didn’t affect only him but his family and the whole hockey team. They were so out of sync without Ten. And it was so sad to read about how difficult it was for Ten to get back on his normal self.

Jared had to deal with not only being away from Ten but with Ten’s family. Everyone turned to him because they got scared and he had to be strong for everyone, so he never got a chance to have some time for himself and deal with all.

Christmas is a magical time and Jared has plans. He was so supportive and I loved him a lot.

It was a very nice short story. It’s better read after Ryker’s book.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars.

Love Ten and Mads so much.... and it seems I can't get enough of Stan. OMG... I'm hooked!!!!

[Elle Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every single character in the Harrisburg Railers series, but have always had a special spot in my heart for Ten. When he got hurt, I was devastated. Luckily, V.L. Locey and R.J. Scott look after their readers. As such, this Christmas novella Neutral Zone was much anticipated and very appreciated.

The story pulls no punches in detailing Ten’s struggles with a head injury and realistically explores his process as he works through rehab for his injury. Having known people who’ve experienced traumatic brain injury, I think the authors did an admirable job of exploring the frustrations experienced by the affected individual and the emotions felt by those closest.

At the heart of the tale, however, is these authors’ trademark romance and they hit that out of the park too. Comic relief was provided as well, most notably by Stan, whose antics were very Stan-y.

My only complaint is that it was too short. OK, honestly it was a perfectly acceptable novella length; it’s just that I’m rather addicted to these characters and never want the stories to end.

Reviewer received a free advance copy in exchange for a review.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.5 stars

Spoiler Alert! There’s no way to review this novella without giving away significant spoilers for past events in the Harrisburg Railers series. If you’re up to date with the series, proceed. If not, make sure you read the series in order.

Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words to say how much I loved this. It is everything I needed with all I didn't know I wanted. After Ten got hurt I freaked out majorly, but seeing him work to get better and Mads working to support him was everything. I really, really loved this.

[SoCalBookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so freaking happy that we got more of Ten and Mads.

I really do love these guys and need so much more of them. I don’t think I could ever get sick of their story. The Railers are such a strong team and family who really band together no matter what they have to face.

This novella picks up after the “accident” that happens with Ten. We see him go through all kinds of struggles and emotions here. I just wanted to jump into the book, grab him and squeeze him and tell him everything would turn out OK.

Mads is the solid rock that Ten needs in order to get through this ordeal. I loved that Mads stood up to Ten’s family and put Ten and himself first over every single other thing going on in their lives. OMG. I was so freaking nervous, though, when the question was asked - I seriously thought for a second that Ten would really say no to what Mads wanted!

But of course RJ Scott and VL Locey wouldn’t let us down like that. Lol. These authors have put together some seriously amazing, fantastic books and I will follow them (and this team) and any other books they give us for as long as they give them to us. They are both auto-buy authors for me at this point, without even reading blurbs.


*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

[Carra · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off…yes, you need to read the other books in this series before starting this one. If you don’t have time for all of them, at least read book one, Changing Lines, and book six, Goal Line, as those have the most important information you’ll need so you’re not lost.

I always love getting to visit with previous couples in a series, and here in Neutral Zone it meant so much more due to the events that happened at the end of Goal Line. I think the authors did a spectacular job in showing the difficulties Ten was having with his current situation, but also his determination and absolute love of the sport. Another thing that was absolute? Ten and Jared’s love for each other—it’s on almost constant display in this book, so much so that it makes you ache to have them together.

There’s plenty to pull at your heartstrings, and also to put a smile on your face (especially when Stan’s around, you can’t not smile when he’s in a scene). It’s a good follow up to let fans of the series know where things stand for Ten and Jared, and to let us all see how things are headed for them.

4.5 stars for Neutral Zone, it’s a must-read for Harrisburg Railers series fans for sure! Remember, it’s not a standalone…but once you start the series you’ll want to read them all regardless. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and some light sexual content.

[Kirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve got so much affection for these two men. After the shocking moment when Ten got injured, I’ve been willing him to get better and be something like the man he was before and to watch him falter and struggle was heart-breaking, but we know what Ten’s like; if there’s a way back to a normal, he’s gonna get there because that’s who he is and he’s got SO much to fight for: his hockey career, the life he’s building with soul mate Mads, and all the teammates, family and fans who completely and utterly adore him. We all know he was going be relentless until he’s back up and running the show. I was sad that Ten was so far away from Mads while he was in rehabilitation, but he was in the best place and exactly where he needed to be. This journey wasn’t easy for either of them, not only Ten in his recovery but Jared for feeling utterly helpless at times and just watching the man he loves in this predicament. The tough times the authors put you through are rewarded with some breathtakingly beautiful moments; and that’s why I love this series, you feel EVERY emotion going and you’re privileged to meet and fall in love with some of the greatest characters, and you all know I’m gonna mention Stan here because he just blows me away with his kindness and compassion for the guys; he’s such an unstoppable force of love that I dare you not to fall head over heels for him. This is the perfect addition to the Railers series, it felt like being home and it was everything I’d hoped it would be. Five Christmas stars all the way.

Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.

[Heather Rawlins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally loved Neutral Zone. I love revisiting characters from a previous story in the series and of course Tennant and Jared are just so likable. This is one time I think although you don’t have to read Goal Line (the last book in Harrisburg Railers series) I recommend reading it. And if you plan to read the Owatanna U Hockey series, first book Ryker, I would read it first too.

I liked that it wasn’t all pretty, you got to see Ten and Jared deal with a very serious injury. It was still a Christmas story full of family and love. But I liked that the pace had to slow down as Ten’s injury was slowing him down. This was definitely more story for Ten and Jared, I love that. I love Christmas stories, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. I absolutely recommend it!

[Lora · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 stars!!!!

Oh be still my heart! Tennant Rowe has had my heart from the beginning of this series and this story just cemented his place there forever! (And Jared has a soft spot right next to him, too.)

As soon as this book hit my Kindle I was on it! This series of standalones is one of my favorites I’ve ever read and this quick holiday novella proved why. The couples are so perfectly matched. The friends so honest. The “extras” so special. One of my favorite “extras” was a girl in a jewelry shop. She didn’t have a big role, but her role felt so very special!!!

Honestly, the emotions were high in this book, but I still laughed out loud a few times - especially when Stan appeared! These hockey guys melt my heart and I’m so glad I get the chance to read all about them!


*** I voluntarily read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***

[Laurel Looney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I guess I have a new favorite book in this amazing series. Neutral Zone is simply amazing from the start to finish. It is definitely a Christmas read that everyone needs to experience. The love is definitely in the air for Ten and Mads. Loved loved loved this book. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There will be absolutely no spoilers in this review!! I will just say Mads and Ten....they were the perfect couple for a Christmas book!! There will be tears, there will be laughter, there will be sighs and there will be that facial expression of WOW!! These ladies did an amazing job with their words bringing out all the feels!! You don’t want to miss this one!!!! I’d give it hundreds of stars if they would let me!! #Railers #MadsTen

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the seventh book in the series, and most definitely needs to be read after the others. My review assumes that you are up to date - so if not, then please go and find book 1 and treat yourself to a whole load of goodness.

After Tennant's horrendous injury, he is in a fight to recover well enough to play again. His intense regime of therapy takes him far from home and both he and Mads are struggling with the separation. This is a really intense book, which deals with the aftermath of a serious injury and its impact on not just the injured but also their closest friends. In this case, inevitably the impact is felt on the ice too, as the team are reminded of the dangers, and aggression that they face whilst playing.

There is romance too - with both men wanting to make a permanent commitment to each other. A lovely pre-Christmas read.

[Jenny Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book with the understanding that I could leave a voluntary and honest review.

In this book we get more of the story of Tennant "Ten" Rowe and Jared Madsen. Ten isn't just not himself he has been injured bad. The thing is it makes him look at his life and all he wants is what he doesn't have, his old life back. However he refuses to let anyone from his life be there. Jared just wants to be there for his boyfriend. He knows they both have things to do to while he gets better but it just hard to be apart. Even though they wish they could be together they know that will do more harm than good. Will they find the new HEA they both need or will this be the end of them for good?

This is another amazing story in this series. It does have its ups and downs I really want to tell you about. However I don't want to ruin it for any other readers. I will say this book will have you hooked from the first word to the very end. Emotionally you will take a roller-coaster ride with these characters again. Again you won't want it to end. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good to find out how Ten and Jared are doing.

In my review of Goal Line (Harrisburg Railers #6) I said I thought it might be the last book in the series; I've never been so happy to be wrong!

Neutral Zone is a wonderful Christmas gift for fans of the Harrisburg Railers series. It's a quick but very satisfying story to read. Ten is in rehab and hates being away from Jared. Jared has a surprise for Ten but isn't sure this is the right time to give it to him.

It seems like RJ and V.L. always know the right buttons to push to make me cry while reading one of their co-authored books. 😊 This is actually a good thing as it means I really love the story.

If you are a fan of the Harrisburg Railers series you can't miss this story. It was so good to check in on all of the guys, especially Ten, Jared and Stan. I was also thrilled to learn that there are more books coming!

An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (posting on November 26, 2018)

[Sophie ARGINTARU · Rating 5 out of 5]

Les trois derniers romans de cette série sont des novellas de 90 pages chacune, où l’on retrouve tous nos héros qui « terminent » leurs intrigues sentimentales, mais qui constituent aussi des transitions vers deux autres séries, une young adult (« Owatonna U Hockey » mettant en scène notamment le jeune Ryker et son expérience universitaire) et l’autre ciblant les ennemis des Harrisburg Railers, soit comme on l’a vu dans le précédent roman : les Arizona Raptors).

Dans celui-ci, on suit notre couple vedette, Tennant et Jared, qui doivent trouver leurs marques, après le drame survenu quelques semaines plus tôt. Il est facile de s’aimer quand tout va bien… mais bien plus difficile d’affronter une épreuve, seuls ou à deux ! Cela renforcera-t-il leur amour ? Le noël qu’ils projetaient ne sera peut-être pas celui dont ils avaient rêvé. Cette intrigue est très émouvante… et heureusement, l’amitié des autres hockeyeurs nous offre de beaux moments !

Adorable et réconfortant !