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Mooseheads Hockey #1
Open Lanes
Brayden
My dream has always been to go pro, but in that dream, she’s standing beside me. I messed up my chance once before but now I have a second chance. Just like on the ice, I will do anything I can to win. This time I’m playing for keeps.
Nicole
He tortured me through High School, followed me across the country to college, and now I am stuck in a car with him for five long days. All I want to do is get home and go back to pretending he doesn’t exist. If only my stupid hormones would get on board with the plan.
My dream has always been to go pro, but in that dream, she’s standing beside me. I messed up my chance once before but now I have a second chance. Just like on the ice, I will do anything I can to win. This time I’m playing for keeps.
Nicole
He tortured me through High School, followed me across the country to college, and now I am stuck in a car with him for five long days. All I want to do is get home and go back to pretending he doesn’t exist. If only my stupid hormones would get on board with the plan.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2021
20 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Mary Morano
16 books103 followersMary is a single mom who decided to take her own advice and follow her dreams of being an author. She’s a New York Islanders Fan and can be often found driving her kids to one of their many sports activities. She enjoys reading, and watching Harry Potter, Avengers Movies, and SVU. You can find her on social media, and she would love to hear from you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
July 15, 2021
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wowza, this book. It was something I truly cherished, and wished I could go on a road trip with friends too, but this is reality, 2021, and covid times in australia. Nothing more discouraging than that.
Anyway, I loved Brayden and Nicole. I mean sure, they got off on the wrong foot (a lot) in highschool, and then some years of college, but there was always a connection between them no matter how much it was pushed downwards/ignored/etc.
So this road trip finally managed to clear everything in between, renew their connection, and make the best of a road trip by seeing all the sights you wouldn't normally see. The writing made sure I never got bored in the entirety of it, and I gotta say I regret nothing from reading this.
And thank god for actual communication, I mean this was a severe problem in most novels, but not this one, thank hell. I actually liked how honest they were about each other from the start, and then nothing deterred them from that.
Also the steamy chemistry between them..utterly fiery and could not help root for them more.
Also, also the writer aspect. Can you believe a character actually can get acknowledged as a writer, and be supported?
What a rare concept, yeah? But thank god, this novel managed to change all that. I actually felt my heart jump and be like yess finally - acknowledgement for what we truly do.
Overall, it's a brilliant novel, and I certainly hope to read more strong and developed characters further from Morano.
Until the next read,
TMR
Wowza, this book. It was something I truly cherished, and wished I could go on a road trip with friends too, but this is reality, 2021, and covid times in australia. Nothing more discouraging than that.
Anyway, I loved Brayden and Nicole. I mean sure, they got off on the wrong foot (a lot) in highschool, and then some years of college, but there was always a connection between them no matter how much it was pushed downwards/ignored/etc.
So this road trip finally managed to clear everything in between, renew their connection, and make the best of a road trip by seeing all the sights you wouldn't normally see. The writing made sure I never got bored in the entirety of it, and I gotta say I regret nothing from reading this.
And thank god for actual communication, I mean this was a severe problem in most novels, but not this one, thank hell. I actually liked how honest they were about each other from the start, and then nothing deterred them from that.
Also the steamy chemistry between them..utterly fiery and could not help root for them more.
Also, also the writer aspect. Can you believe a character actually can get acknowledged as a writer, and be supported?
What a rare concept, yeah? But thank god, this novel managed to change all that. I actually felt my heart jump and be like yess finally - acknowledgement for what we truly do.
Overall, it's a brilliant novel, and I certainly hope to read more strong and developed characters further from Morano.
Until the next read,
TMR
June 29, 2021
I love hockey romances and as soon as I saw this was also a second chance at love, I jumped at the chance to read Open Lanes. Let me just say this is a great start to the new Mooseheads Hockey Series and if Nicole and Brayden’s story is anything to go by and Morano will certainly have a hit series on her hands. A new author and a new hockey series is certainly a win win for me.
Nicole and Brandenburg were best friends before he became her worst enemy and now in college they find themselves face to face once again but this time Brayden wants to redeem himself, he needs to apologise and make amends for his stupid ways but will Nicole give him one more chance…..
This one s a captivating read with wonderful characters, it’s about friendship, trust and most importantly forgiveness. It’s a fun, sweet read that will appeal to wide ranof audiences and I’m sure like me it will leave you excited for book 2.
Nicole and Brandenburg were best friends before he became her worst enemy and now in college they find themselves face to face once again but this time Brayden wants to redeem himself, he needs to apologise and make amends for his stupid ways but will Nicole give him one more chance…..
This one s a captivating read with wonderful characters, it’s about friendship, trust and most importantly forgiveness. It’s a fun, sweet read that will appeal to wide ranof audiences and I’m sure like me it will leave you excited for book 2.
June 7, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed an ARC copy of Open Lanes this weekend. Nicole and Brayden are sexy and adorable and so true to the book nerd / hockey fk boy university characters. Their road trip adventure is fast-paced and entertaining. Highly recommend for a quick beach read.
June 27, 2021
Cute College Read
In the first book of the Mooseheads Hockey series we are introduced to Brayden and Nicole, childhood best friends that have grown apart over the years, much to thier mothers dismay.
We start off learning about how much Brayden and Nicole have grown to hate each other. We all know it's hard for guys and girls to be best friends without one wanting more and that is what happened with these two. Once they hit high school, Brayden turned into a guy Nicole didn't recognize, one that tormented and teased her daily. One she wanted nothing to do with, however with thier moms also best friends since childhood, she really didn't have a choice. Brayden. Was. Always. There.
Next, we jump into a long road trip with these frenemies, as they make thier way from school to home for a visit and this is where we really get to know them and they get to know each other. While it was a lot of nonsense talk, school, the road side attractions they were going to see and so on, I did enjoy how these kids slowly unfolded thier past and present day after day. Trying to figure out where things went wrong between them.
The book is well written, albeit a smidge choppy with all of the internal monologue and commenting, however funny and refreshing. We are joined by each of their closest friends and of course the moms chime in here and there. Open Lanes wraps up Brayden and Nicole's story and Justin's is introduced at the end. Mary Moranco did a nice job with this first book, so I'll have no problem seeing what the rest of this team is up to.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
In the first book of the Mooseheads Hockey series we are introduced to Brayden and Nicole, childhood best friends that have grown apart over the years, much to thier mothers dismay.
We start off learning about how much Brayden and Nicole have grown to hate each other. We all know it's hard for guys and girls to be best friends without one wanting more and that is what happened with these two. Once they hit high school, Brayden turned into a guy Nicole didn't recognize, one that tormented and teased her daily. One she wanted nothing to do with, however with thier moms also best friends since childhood, she really didn't have a choice. Brayden. Was. Always. There.
Next, we jump into a long road trip with these frenemies, as they make thier way from school to home for a visit and this is where we really get to know them and they get to know each other. While it was a lot of nonsense talk, school, the road side attractions they were going to see and so on, I did enjoy how these kids slowly unfolded thier past and present day after day. Trying to figure out where things went wrong between them.
The book is well written, albeit a smidge choppy with all of the internal monologue and commenting, however funny and refreshing. We are joined by each of their closest friends and of course the moms chime in here and there. Open Lanes wraps up Brayden and Nicole's story and Justin's is introduced at the end. Mary Moranco did a nice job with this first book, so I'll have no problem seeing what the rest of this team is up to.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
June 29, 2021
It needs a good editing–to tighten the plot and smooth some elements–but I really enjoyed this book. It’s a promising debut novel.
You get a swoony hero who, surprisingly, is the one pining over the same girl for several years. That makes for a fast romance once they decide to get together though, when they have been separated for so long–and after having a problematic relationship in high school, with some degree of bullying involved. You can find Nicole’s forgiveness beautiful, I thought Bray needed to grovel some more. You also get a quirky heroine–who’s definitely the author’s projection. She brings the fun in the story.
The road trip was a nice touch, and the relationship between Nic and Bray evolves along the way. And you’ll learn useless information about weird roadside attractions.
You won’t get a lot of hockey, but there’s some interactions between teammates that give some sense of what it is to be a part of the Mooseheads. The new adult/college student vibe is strong. And I felt like Nic and Bray were my friends, through the way they told their story.
The main problem was the editing, and not just some spelling/tense/grammar mistake. But it’s a good debut, and Justin’s story, the next book in the series, will be an interesting one. Definitely give it a try!
Quickie
- Series: Mooseheads hockey #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #hockey romance #enemies to lovers #road trip #forced proximity
- Triggers: mention of past mild bullying
- Main couple: Nicole Miller & Brayden Montgomery
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the guy pining over his girl, what a nice change!
- – the book was in need of a good tightening of the story
You get a swoony hero who, surprisingly, is the one pining over the same girl for several years. That makes for a fast romance once they decide to get together though, when they have been separated for so long–and after having a problematic relationship in high school, with some degree of bullying involved. You can find Nicole’s forgiveness beautiful, I thought Bray needed to grovel some more. You also get a quirky heroine–who’s definitely the author’s projection. She brings the fun in the story.
The road trip was a nice touch, and the relationship between Nic and Bray evolves along the way. And you’ll learn useless information about weird roadside attractions.
You won’t get a lot of hockey, but there’s some interactions between teammates that give some sense of what it is to be a part of the Mooseheads. The new adult/college student vibe is strong. And I felt like Nic and Bray were my friends, through the way they told their story.
The main problem was the editing, and not just some spelling/tense/grammar mistake. But it’s a good debut, and Justin’s story, the next book in the series, will be an interesting one. Definitely give it a try!
Quickie
- Series: Mooseheads hockey #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #hockey romance #enemies to lovers #road trip #forced proximity
- Triggers: mention of past mild bullying
- Main couple: Nicole Miller & Brayden Montgomery
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the guy pining over his girl, what a nice change!
- – the book was in need of a good tightening of the story
June 28, 2021
This is the first book by Mary Morano and I was honored to be able to receive an ARC copy for review. This is an awesome first book and cannot wait to read more!
Braydon and Nicole grew up together and were best friends for years until he started acting out to keep other guys away from her. Nicole was hurt and devastated by Braydon's behavior and couldn't wait to leave for college. Braydon has been in love with Nicole for years and didn't know how to show it and when she decided to go to college he followed. Enter in douchbag boyfriend and an extended roadtrip and that is all she wrote! Backstory, Braydon's parents and Nicole's parents are best friends and moved to the neighborhood together and have been hoping for Braydon and Nicole to get together for YEARS.
Again, an awesome first book to a new series and I cannot wait to read more from Mary!
Braydon and Nicole grew up together and were best friends for years until he started acting out to keep other guys away from her. Nicole was hurt and devastated by Braydon's behavior and couldn't wait to leave for college. Braydon has been in love with Nicole for years and didn't know how to show it and when she decided to go to college he followed. Enter in douchbag boyfriend and an extended roadtrip and that is all she wrote! Backstory, Braydon's parents and Nicole's parents are best friends and moved to the neighborhood together and have been hoping for Braydon and Nicole to get together for YEARS.
Again, an awesome first book to a new series and I cannot wait to read more from Mary!
June 28, 2021
This is a cute, quick read about Nicole and Brayden. They are lifelong friends then enemies (or at least one sided enemy) and now Brayden hopes he can get Nicole to forgive him and fall in love with him. I like that the majority of the book was them on their road trip visiting weird sites and spending time in the car, chatting, listening to music, or just enjoying each other’s company. It was funny and was kind of odd at times, especially with their moms and what they found at home at the end of their road trip. But that’s the fun with these books…the quirky stories are some of the best because you remember them!
June 27, 2021
Brayden and Nicole are adorable! This best friends to enemies to lovers romance is so sweet! Brayden was a confused teenager who didn't know how to go from friends to having deeper feelings for his best friend which caused chaos. Now as college students he wants to straighten things out with Nicole because he likes her and everything he did in the past was a boy's way of keeping her to himself.
I loved how this love story progressed and they worked through their past issues while learning each other again. Their love in one for the books!
I loved how this love story progressed and they worked through their past issues while learning each other again. Their love in one for the books!
July 30, 2021
Brayden and Nicole have been best friends since birth, but in high school Brayden became a popular hockey star who made Nicole's life miserable. Now they're in college living completely different lives, and he has five days to convince Nicole that he's not the idiot jerk he used to be, and that their lifelong bond is truly special.
I really enjoyed this story. I've never read a hockey romance, and I sort of still haven't because this first book in the Mooseheads Hockey series is actually a really delightful second chance road trip romance. I love how the epilogue hints at the star of book two and I am excited.
I really enjoyed this story. I've never read a hockey romance, and I sort of still haven't because this first book in the Mooseheads Hockey series is actually a really delightful second chance road trip romance. I love how the epilogue hints at the star of book two and I am excited.
January 1, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
I felt that Brayden and Nicole's story was highly entertaining with the whole frenemies to lovers and second chance aspect. They had me laughing out loud throughout their road trip and shenanigans. Such a wonderful debut novel. I'm excited to meet the rest of the Moosehead Hockey Team and discover the story behind all the nicknames. Open Lanes by Mary Morano is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
I felt that Brayden and Nicole's story was highly entertaining with the whole frenemies to lovers and second chance aspect. They had me laughing out loud throughout their road trip and shenanigans. Such a wonderful debut novel. I'm excited to meet the rest of the Moosehead Hockey Team and discover the story behind all the nicknames. Open Lanes by Mary Morano is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
June 9, 2021
Nicole and Brayden were once the best of friends. Then he became her worst enemy, her meanest tormentor, and her albatross. She just has to make it to high school graduation and she can put him and everything about him in her rear view mirror. Until she discovers that he’s going to the same college as her. So, it’s on to Plan B. Except…
Brayden wants a chance to redeem himself. He knows he was stupid. He knows he was petty and childish and utterly moronic. If only the girl of his fantasies would please talk to him and let him apologize.
When Brayden finally sees some luck turning his way, he does his best to convince Nicole to join him for the long drive home. Since Nicole is sort of stuck without options at the second (and falls asleep), she ends up along for the ride. From then on, it’s a trip to remember. Remember the good, the bad, the stupid, and the ugly. Remember the friendship they once had. And remember just how attracted Nicole is to Brayden.
I loved how Brayden didn’t shy away from owning his misdeeds and his stupidity. He apologized and actually meant it. He didn’t give up because Nicole didn’t make things easy. Instead, he turned to Tattoo for advice. And listened to it. So Nicole and Brayden managed to find their happiness, but what about Tattoo? I can’t wait to read his story, because I have a feeling he should’ve been taking some of his own advice along the way…
Brayden wants a chance to redeem himself. He knows he was stupid. He knows he was petty and childish and utterly moronic. If only the girl of his fantasies would please talk to him and let him apologize.
When Brayden finally sees some luck turning his way, he does his best to convince Nicole to join him for the long drive home. Since Nicole is sort of stuck without options at the second (and falls asleep), she ends up along for the ride. From then on, it’s a trip to remember. Remember the good, the bad, the stupid, and the ugly. Remember the friendship they once had. And remember just how attracted Nicole is to Brayden.
I loved how Brayden didn’t shy away from owning his misdeeds and his stupidity. He apologized and actually meant it. He didn’t give up because Nicole didn’t make things easy. Instead, he turned to Tattoo for advice. And listened to it. So Nicole and Brayden managed to find their happiness, but what about Tattoo? I can’t wait to read his story, because I have a feeling he should’ve been taking some of his own advice along the way…
June 8, 2021
I was invited to be a part of this author’s first ARC team and I’m so glad. This book is a cute, quirky romance about 2 best friends who lost their way with each other in High School. But, much to Nic’s dismay her now sworn enemy is now following her to college! Ugh!
Although she ignores him circumstances beyond her control throw them together for the road trip of her life - from Maine to FL - and all the little weird roadside places in between.
Come along for the ride of your life and see if Nic and Brayden manage to make it home for the summer alive, in one piece and friends again - or will she do what she wanted to in High School and make him disappear from her life for good! It’s well worth the trip - I promise!
Although she ignores him circumstances beyond her control throw them together for the road trip of her life - from Maine to FL - and all the little weird roadside places in between.
Come along for the ride of your life and see if Nic and Brayden manage to make it home for the summer alive, in one piece and friends again - or will she do what she wanted to in High School and make him disappear from her life for good! It’s well worth the trip - I promise!
June 6, 2021
I love second chance romances, add in a hockey player & I cannot resist! This is a great book about two individuals who used to be best friends, at least until a teenage boy becomes a idiot.
I love how the friendship between these two redeveloped during their road trip home after Sophomore year of collage. Brayden is so adorable as he tries to win Nicole over. My only complaint is that I wish we had more chapters from Brayden’s POV just because I love him so much.
Definitely a must read & I am so excited for the next book!
I love how the friendship between these two redeveloped during their road trip home after Sophomore year of collage. Brayden is so adorable as he tries to win Nicole over. My only complaint is that I wish we had more chapters from Brayden’s POV just because I love him so much.
Definitely a must read & I am so excited for the next book!
June 8, 2021
Loved this book!! Based on the blurb I expected some stuff to be different but I was super pleasantly surprised!! Loved the story & relationship between the MCs & loved that the drama was about them & not too many outside forces. Great start to a new series & def worth the read!!
July 6, 2021
What a debut!
There was a lot of hype around this books from others who read it before me and I was worried that I would end up slightly disappointed by going in with high expectations but the author did not disappoint.
There was a lot of hype around this books from others who read it before me and I was worried that I would end up slightly disappointed by going in with high expectations but the author did not disappoint.
June 5, 2021
I have to say I'm normally into darker type books but i loved the sound of the blurb when i read it and i had to get it! It didn't disappoint! Please hurry with book 2 😂!!
June 17, 2021
A must read and add to your 2021 tbr list! Wow! I’m obsessed with this one.
A second chance, childhood bestfriends, to kinda enemies, to lovers, hockey college romance. Mary Morano brings us a beautiful romance that will have you hooked from the very beginning. I really fell in love with the characters. The protagonist, Nicole, was so relatable and funny. She’s my new older sister.
~
The characters go on a road trip from Maine to Florida and visit all these unique places. During said trip, they fix problems, analyze new feelings, and much more. The author provides us with amazing descriptions allowing readers to actually be able to imagine every-single detail. I really do love that when I’m reading. I was able to travel with them.
A second chance, childhood bestfriends, to kinda enemies, to lovers, hockey college romance. Mary Morano brings us a beautiful romance that will have you hooked from the very beginning. I really fell in love with the characters. The protagonist, Nicole, was so relatable and funny. She’s my new older sister.
~
The characters go on a road trip from Maine to Florida and visit all these unique places. During said trip, they fix problems, analyze new feelings, and much more. The author provides us with amazing descriptions allowing readers to actually be able to imagine every-single detail. I really do love that when I’m reading. I was able to travel with them.
June 13, 2021
Open Lanes is a low-angst, entertaining story about former friends turned enemies turned lovers.
The set up is classic but the author does a great job turning a college road trip into something funny, sexy, and ultimately poignant. It's mostly told from the female POV and the few insights into her hockey-bro, cinnamon roll hero's POV are well placed and intriguing. It packs plenty of heat so make sure you're prepared for lots of sex-positive, super steamy scenes. Highly recommend for a light (hot) summer read.
The set up is classic but the author does a great job turning a college road trip into something funny, sexy, and ultimately poignant. It's mostly told from the female POV and the few insights into her hockey-bro, cinnamon roll hero's POV are well placed and intriguing. It packs plenty of heat so make sure you're prepared for lots of sex-positive, super steamy scenes. Highly recommend for a light (hot) summer read.
July 1, 2021
This debut hockey romance covers so many bases - second chance, ex friends/enemies to lovers, road trip and stinky hockey gear that is almost a character in its own right.
Mary has written a good first novel with lots of positives. The hurt that Nicole carries after Brayden tortured her during high school is palpable. However, when she had no other choice but to join her ex best friend for a road trip home, he begins to make amends.
This is a slow burn second chance romance with lots of fun moments and some excellent secondary characters who I can’t wait to meet in future instalments.
I received an ARC for an honest review
Mary has written a good first novel with lots of positives. The hurt that Nicole carries after Brayden tortured her during high school is palpable. However, when she had no other choice but to join her ex best friend for a road trip home, he begins to make amends.
This is a slow burn second chance romance with lots of fun moments and some excellent secondary characters who I can’t wait to meet in future instalments.
I received an ARC for an honest review
June 9, 2021
Such an easy read!! Great chemistry between these two and such a fun trip to follow them on. Definitely a must read!
July 5, 2021
This college frenemies to lovers story is sweet, low angst and a fun read. Written mostly from the heroines point of view but with some insights into the hero’s feelings along the way their fun road trip covers the young friendship they shared, misunderstood teenage feelings and burgeoning lust as they are forced to get to know each other again.
The sexual tension is strong and leads to some spicy scenes throughout.
Second Chance
Frenemies to Lovers
College Romance
Hockey Romance
Athlete & Smart girl Romance
Road trip Romance
Low-zero angst
Fun Read
The sexual tension is strong and leads to some spicy scenes throughout.
Second Chance
Frenemies to Lovers
College Romance
Hockey Romance
Athlete & Smart girl Romance
Road trip Romance
Low-zero angst
Fun Read
July 1, 2021
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU / B&N / KOBO / APPLE BOOKS / GOOGLE PLAY / PAPERBACK
Nicole and Brayden are doomed to be in each other's lives, thanks to their moms being best friends. She thought she had escaped him, though, when she went away to college. But lo and behold but who does she find out is going to her university, too? You guessed it...But they hadn't always been enemies. They used to be close until they hit puberty, he became popular and she stayed her bookworm self. Suddenly he was tormenting her and bullying her relentlessly to the point of her crying herself to sleep sometimes. Yeah, it was bad. But she's been able to avoid him on campus for ages now so she is happy. Until her ex dumps her, literally, and who comes to her rescue by offering her a ride. You guessed it again...Now they're stuck driving home for a week together. Will Nicole be able to keep avoiding him, even while in the same car? Or will she find she's no match for Brayden's sweet charm?
This is a cute, fun read with two adorable characters. Brayden reminded me of the boy who used to tease me endlessly all through elementary and junior high because he couldn't figure out how to tell me he liked me. Unfortunately he took it too far, though, and hurt poor Nicole's heart. Thank God he got his second chance to tell her how he really felt and make it up to her in the sweetest way. I am looking forward to more Mooseheads Hockey now.
ARC via Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.
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June 27, 2021
Open Lanes is the debut novel by Mary Morano, and what a debut it is! If you like hockey romance stories, Open Lanes is the book for you!
Brayden is Nicole's neighbor and hockey playing former best friend, who had turned into her tormentor in high school. Nicole was so happy to be going away to college so she would never have to see Brayden again. That is, until she learned he had joined the hockey team at HER college! 😲 So much for getting away from him! Despite being at the same college she was able to avoid seeing or talking to Brayden for a full, much to her relief and his dismay. Little did Nicole know that Brayden watched her and pined for her from afar.
Brayden planned a road trip home for the summer, and invited Nicole to ride along with him, which did not go as he planned. He wanted to use this trip to show Nicole that he wants to reconcile with her and that he has changed. Little did Brayden know how badly he had tormented Nicole and how much he would need to grovel.
The level of pining by Brayden made my heart just melt! It is very rare to find a hero who actually pines for his love. There was a time in romance when pining by the hero was in most romance stories. Mary Morano has done a such fabulous job of writing Brayden's pining, to rivel any great classic pining romance. She has written Brayden in such a way that he is right up there for me next to probably my favorite hero of all time, Clayton Westmoreland (Duke of Claymore) from Judith McNaught's hero from Whitney, My Love. The way that Brayden loves Nicole, and pulls out all the stops to get her back, made me wonder if Brayden could be descended from Clayton Westmoreland!
Though we don't see actual hockey action in Open Lanes, there is a whole host of side characters (Brayden's teammates) who will have you champing at the bit to read the remaining stories in Mary Morano's Moosehead's Hockey series. In particular, I am *super stoked* for Penguin's story (book 3) coming in November 2021 in the Untouched Heroes anthology! What are you waiting for? Run quick and buy Open Lanes today, and pre-order the upcoming releases in the series!!!
Brayden is Nicole's neighbor and hockey playing former best friend, who had turned into her tormentor in high school. Nicole was so happy to be going away to college so she would never have to see Brayden again. That is, until she learned he had joined the hockey team at HER college! 😲 So much for getting away from him! Despite being at the same college she was able to avoid seeing or talking to Brayden for a full, much to her relief and his dismay. Little did Nicole know that Brayden watched her and pined for her from afar.
Brayden planned a road trip home for the summer, and invited Nicole to ride along with him, which did not go as he planned. He wanted to use this trip to show Nicole that he wants to reconcile with her and that he has changed. Little did Brayden know how badly he had tormented Nicole and how much he would need to grovel.
The level of pining by Brayden made my heart just melt! It is very rare to find a hero who actually pines for his love. There was a time in romance when pining by the hero was in most romance stories. Mary Morano has done a such fabulous job of writing Brayden's pining, to rivel any great classic pining romance. She has written Brayden in such a way that he is right up there for me next to probably my favorite hero of all time, Clayton Westmoreland (Duke of Claymore) from Judith McNaught's hero from Whitney, My Love. The way that Brayden loves Nicole, and pulls out all the stops to get her back, made me wonder if Brayden could be descended from Clayton Westmoreland!
Though we don't see actual hockey action in Open Lanes, there is a whole host of side characters (Brayden's teammates) who will have you champing at the bit to read the remaining stories in Mary Morano's Moosehead's Hockey series. In particular, I am *super stoked* for Penguin's story (book 3) coming in November 2021 in the Untouched Heroes anthology! What are you waiting for? Run quick and buy Open Lanes today, and pre-order the upcoming releases in the series!!!
June 22, 2021
I would’ve read this in one sit if it wasn’t because life was happening around me.
The story got me since the start, because I could see how much they cared about each other, even when the time had passed without them interacting at all. They had so much chemistry together, even when they thought there wasn’t, I loved how connected they were.
Brayden melted my heart and then evaporated the liquid… 😍OMG that man was SWOONY! He wanted to make up for all the things he did to her so bad. He loved her so much and it showed throughout the book. I loved how much he knew about her and how much he paid attention to her needs, the way he wanted to protect her and support her dreams. He noticed and appreciated everything about her. I loved he acknowledged his teenage stupidity and never tried to justify his actions.
Nic was such a sassy, creative and sweet heroine! I loved how strong and independent she was, how she wouldn’t let anyone step on her or make her feel less. I obviously understood why she was so reluctant to give Brayden a chance but loved how understanding she was and wss willing to listen and give him a chance. She was funny and had an inspiring free spirit that would’ve loved to have when I was that age!
Their relationship felt so natural from the jump and their entire adventure kept me flipping the pages like crazy. I was glued to my Kindle the entire time, I was transported to every place they visited and felt all the feelings as they reconnected and rekindled their flame. Talking about flame… this book was H A W T 🔥 I loved how steamy and beautiful those scenes were, and especially because of how sweet and wonderful the consent aspect was written… It literally made me squeal! Made me look forward their happy ending.
This was a swoon worthy, sexy and funny New Adult romance. I rooted for this couple from start to finish, they put a smile on my face and I can’t wait for the next boon on the series!
Many thanks to Mary Morano for gifting me an esrly copy of this book!
The story got me since the start, because I could see how much they cared about each other, even when the time had passed without them interacting at all. They had so much chemistry together, even when they thought there wasn’t, I loved how connected they were.
Brayden melted my heart and then evaporated the liquid… 😍OMG that man was SWOONY! He wanted to make up for all the things he did to her so bad. He loved her so much and it showed throughout the book. I loved how much he knew about her and how much he paid attention to her needs, the way he wanted to protect her and support her dreams. He noticed and appreciated everything about her. I loved he acknowledged his teenage stupidity and never tried to justify his actions.
Nic was such a sassy, creative and sweet heroine! I loved how strong and independent she was, how she wouldn’t let anyone step on her or make her feel less. I obviously understood why she was so reluctant to give Brayden a chance but loved how understanding she was and wss willing to listen and give him a chance. She was funny and had an inspiring free spirit that would’ve loved to have when I was that age!
Their relationship felt so natural from the jump and their entire adventure kept me flipping the pages like crazy. I was glued to my Kindle the entire time, I was transported to every place they visited and felt all the feelings as they reconnected and rekindled their flame. Talking about flame… this book was H A W T 🔥 I loved how steamy and beautiful those scenes were, and especially because of how sweet and wonderful the consent aspect was written… It literally made me squeal! Made me look forward their happy ending.
This was a swoon worthy, sexy and funny New Adult romance. I rooted for this couple from start to finish, they put a smile on my face and I can’t wait for the next boon on the series!
Many thanks to Mary Morano for gifting me an esrly copy of this book!
July 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this forced proximity, road trips, and friends to enemies to lovers romance! Open Lanes is Mary Morano’s debut novel and book one in the Mooseheads Hockey series.
Brayden and Nicole grew up together, they were childhood friends, and their parents are best friends. Things change and Brayden foolishly becomes Nicole’s worst enemy and tormentor. As it turns out, they are attending the same college. Circumstances throw these two together on the road trip of a lifetime and it remains to be seen if they make it back home in one piece.
Brayden and Nicole were such amazing characters. Brayden’s commitment to getting the girl of his dreams to fall in love with him was so adorable. I loved the forced proximity/road trip and rekindling of their friendship. I really enjoyed seeing these characters have a discussion about their shared past and hurt feelings like mature adults. These characters are flawed but realistic and their growth through this book was another thing I really enjoyed. This book was really good, but I would have loved to see more of the banter between Brayden and Nicole. Overall, a solid debut and I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brayden and Nicole grew up together, they were childhood friends, and their parents are best friends. Things change and Brayden foolishly becomes Nicole’s worst enemy and tormentor. As it turns out, they are attending the same college. Circumstances throw these two together on the road trip of a lifetime and it remains to be seen if they make it back home in one piece.
Brayden and Nicole were such amazing characters. Brayden’s commitment to getting the girl of his dreams to fall in love with him was so adorable. I loved the forced proximity/road trip and rekindling of their friendship. I really enjoyed seeing these characters have a discussion about their shared past and hurt feelings like mature adults. These characters are flawed but realistic and their growth through this book was another thing I really enjoyed. This book was really good, but I would have loved to see more of the banter between Brayden and Nicole. Overall, a solid debut and I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 29, 2021
5 stars - phenomenal first book by a new author worth reading
Let me start with: I don’t typically read YA, but … the blurb from this book caught my attention. The hook is a road trip and the introspective look at their relationship. I loved how this flowed. The angst from each of the main characters due to their youthful experience comes through clearly. They each phone a friend at different times for relationship advice that is spot on.
I love reading how Brayden faces his fears of telling Nicole how much and how long he cared for her, having made very stupid mistakes because he didn’t recognize his feelings for what they were. Nicole is struggling with her feelings for Brayden, unsure about trusting him because of all the hurt he had previously caused. The story evolves naturally.
Mary is a first time author and this story is phenomenal and I look forward to more in the series. BYW: if there were any grammar or editing issues, I totally missed them because I was so involved in the story.
Let me start with: I don’t typically read YA, but … the blurb from this book caught my attention. The hook is a road trip and the introspective look at their relationship. I loved how this flowed. The angst from each of the main characters due to their youthful experience comes through clearly. They each phone a friend at different times for relationship advice that is spot on.
I love reading how Brayden faces his fears of telling Nicole how much and how long he cared for her, having made very stupid mistakes because he didn’t recognize his feelings for what they were. Nicole is struggling with her feelings for Brayden, unsure about trusting him because of all the hurt he had previously caused. The story evolves naturally.
Mary is a first time author and this story is phenomenal and I look forward to more in the series. BYW: if there were any grammar or editing issues, I totally missed them because I was so involved in the story.
June 29, 2021
Thank you to Mary Morano for an ARC copy of Open Lanes in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoy Open Lanes entirely—and not only because of the romance and you-know-what. I want to touch briefly on a few points: our protagonists, the writing style, and a few of the tropes used in this novel.
Let’s talk about Nicole first. She is a flawed person, as we want our protagonist to be, but her flaws are fixable with a bit of effort and the right information. Brayden is her perfect foil. He holds onto the answers that will help Nicole learn and develop past her flaws, as I want the love interest to be. Both characters felt realistic for 20-year-olds. They have understandable miscommunications without it feeling forced, and I enjoyed every moment between these two lovely characters.
I’m a big fan of the writing itself as well. Morano wrote Open Lanes in a kind of first-person style that made me connect with the characters on a close, emotional level. I could understand their thoughts, emotions, and decisions. The story was told simply, in which I didn’t have to stumble over the words to see Nicole and Brayden and their tender romance. It felt like falling in love with them as much as they were falling in love with each other.
My only complaint is about Nicole’s development as a character through the second half of the book. I won’t give away any spoilers, but I wanted her to figure it out a bit earlier than she did. There could have been a couple of scenes that were taken out or changed and it would have quickened that part of the story to match the pace of the first half.
There are very few tropes that I could name that I avoid. I loved all the ones in this book. There was a great friends-to-enemies-to-lovers plot, the beloved one-bed trope, and of course, that Nicole and Brayden became stuck in a car together for a lengthy road-trip. These were all done well and natural, unlike some versions of these tropes that I’ve read. I worry about some of these romance tropes because it’s so easy to just place the characters into these situations with no reason for them to be there. The plot worked these tropes in seamlessly.
I would recommend this book to fans of contemporary, sport, or adult romance who are above 18. I can’t recommend similar books or authors as I’m just getting back into reading romance, but I will say that Open Lanes is a perfect place to start.
I enjoy Open Lanes entirely—and not only because of the romance and you-know-what. I want to touch briefly on a few points: our protagonists, the writing style, and a few of the tropes used in this novel.
Let’s talk about Nicole first. She is a flawed person, as we want our protagonist to be, but her flaws are fixable with a bit of effort and the right information. Brayden is her perfect foil. He holds onto the answers that will help Nicole learn and develop past her flaws, as I want the love interest to be. Both characters felt realistic for 20-year-olds. They have understandable miscommunications without it feeling forced, and I enjoyed every moment between these two lovely characters.
I’m a big fan of the writing itself as well. Morano wrote Open Lanes in a kind of first-person style that made me connect with the characters on a close, emotional level. I could understand their thoughts, emotions, and decisions. The story was told simply, in which I didn’t have to stumble over the words to see Nicole and Brayden and their tender romance. It felt like falling in love with them as much as they were falling in love with each other.
My only complaint is about Nicole’s development as a character through the second half of the book. I won’t give away any spoilers, but I wanted her to figure it out a bit earlier than she did. There could have been a couple of scenes that were taken out or changed and it would have quickened that part of the story to match the pace of the first half.
There are very few tropes that I could name that I avoid. I loved all the ones in this book. There was a great friends-to-enemies-to-lovers plot, the beloved one-bed trope, and of course, that Nicole and Brayden became stuck in a car together for a lengthy road-trip. These were all done well and natural, unlike some versions of these tropes that I’ve read. I worry about some of these romance tropes because it’s so easy to just place the characters into these situations with no reason for them to be there. The plot worked these tropes in seamlessly.
I would recommend this book to fans of contemporary, sport, or adult romance who are above 18. I can’t recommend similar books or authors as I’m just getting back into reading romance, but I will say that Open Lanes is a perfect place to start.
June 25, 2021
Nicole and Brayden had been best friends forever with their families living across the street from each other and their families are close. Once they got to high school things changed. Brayden really liked her but didn't know how to show her so he tormented her instead. She quit talking to him and when college came around he ended up going to the same school to play hockey, but that's ok since she froze him out for the first 2 years.
Time to go home for the summer and she ends it with her boyfriend and he dumps her on the side of the road and who ends up driving down that road driving back to home in Florida but Brayden.
What begins is the adventure of driving from Maine to Florida, taking in a bunch of weird roadside stops of places they both would love to see.
Will they make it home alive and go back to being friends and maybe something more or will she hate him even more?
A funny, cute read by a first time author for me. One I would certainly read again.
4 1/2
Time to go home for the summer and she ends it with her boyfriend and he dumps her on the side of the road and who ends up driving down that road driving back to home in Florida but Brayden.
What begins is the adventure of driving from Maine to Florida, taking in a bunch of weird roadside stops of places they both would love to see.
Will they make it home alive and go back to being friends and maybe something more or will she hate him even more?
A funny, cute read by a first time author for me. One I would certainly read again.
4 1/2
June 30, 2021
If you want an NA low angst insta love romance with a road trip vibes estranged friends second chance romance check this one out. ❤️ Nicole and Brayden were cute. I like how she wanted to be a writer and she was blunt and sassy. And Brayden was kinda a butthole for the things that he'd done, i felt like she forgave him too quickly i wanted a lot more groveling. But overall a good read. The nicknames between the players were the only thing i didn't like plus the interactions with tattoo were kinda off.
All opinions are my own. ARC Provided by givemebooksPR for a voluntary review.
All opinions are my own. ARC Provided by givemebooksPR for a voluntary review.
June 30, 2021
This book reminded me how much I love the sports romance genre. Second chance at love, hot hockey player heroe, strong female heroine ... if this story is any indication of what awaits us in the next books of the Mooseheads Hockey series, then I'm all in. The story really captivated me, the characters were very well developed, there were a lot of themes covered in this story like second chances, love, friendship, trust, forgiveness and obviously happiness. You really need to read this book, I can't wait for the second one in this series.
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