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Bethesda Barracudas Hockey #1.5
The New Next One
How much are you willing to give up for the man you love?
Best friends Nick Johnson and Tyler Jensen seem to have the world by the tail. The eighteen-year-old stars of their school’s hockey team are looking forward to playing in college and hoping for careers with the pros.
Nick and Tyler know a lot about each other, but there are a few important details they haven’t discussed. To start with, neither man knows the other is gay. Making things interesting, Nick has a massive crush on Tyler, something he’s kept to himself for a long time. And although he’s never said a word about it, Tyler has wanted to date Nick since they met.
On a cold Minnesota night after a big win, Tyler finds the courage to confess his feelings to Nick. When Nick admits his attraction to Tyler, their relationship turns on a dime. As they fall in love, they skate around the challenges of a secret romance in an all-male boarding school, but what will happen when the stakes rise dramatically in a sport not known for being gay-friendly? Will Nick and Tyler make the easy choice or the hard one?
The New Next One is a prequel to the authors' book Nice Catching You. The New Next One is a new adult, friends-to-lovers romance featuring young athletes, plenty of steam, and a lot of emotion. Besides learning the background for Nice Catching You, you will meet the main characters for the authors' book Fire in the Ice.
Best friends Nick Johnson and Tyler Jensen seem to have the world by the tail. The eighteen-year-old stars of their school’s hockey team are looking forward to playing in college and hoping for careers with the pros.
Nick and Tyler know a lot about each other, but there are a few important details they haven’t discussed. To start with, neither man knows the other is gay. Making things interesting, Nick has a massive crush on Tyler, something he’s kept to himself for a long time. And although he’s never said a word about it, Tyler has wanted to date Nick since they met.
On a cold Minnesota night after a big win, Tyler finds the courage to confess his feelings to Nick. When Nick admits his attraction to Tyler, their relationship turns on a dime. As they fall in love, they skate around the challenges of a secret romance in an all-male boarding school, but what will happen when the stakes rise dramatically in a sport not known for being gay-friendly? Will Nick and Tyler make the easy choice or the hard one?
The New Next One is a prequel to the authors' book Nice Catching You. The New Next One is a new adult, friends-to-lovers romance featuring young athletes, plenty of steam, and a lot of emotion. Besides learning the background for Nice Catching You, you will meet the main characters for the authors' book Fire in the Ice.
107 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2022
112 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 27, 2021
I decided to pay for two months of Kindle Unlimited and read as many queer sports romances as I can this summer because who doesn't love a summer project? This was number one and I'm DNFing at 40%. The only tension here is the fear of being caught being gay in a homophobic environment and that's just not the kind of plot or tension I'm interested in.
July 11, 2022
Edited7/11/22 to add my comments on the audiobook
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Nick J. Russo did another fine job with his performance of this book. He’s done a great job will all of the books in this series.
A copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author/narrator.
Original Review:
I really loved this novella but I was a little puzzled as to why the authors decided to release this one after Nice Catching You. As I wrote this review though, I came to understand the logic of publishing this book after Nice Catching You. I was very satisfied with how The New Next One ended but a large part of that was probably because I had already read Nice Catching You. So, my recommendation is to read that book before you read this one.
POTENTIAL SPOILER WARNING:
So, The New Next One (that unusual title makes sense after you’ve read the book) is a story that didn’t leave me feeling unfulfilled or sad. It’s not a tragic love story. It’s a story about all the passion and emotion of first love and I loved it.
A 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***
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Nick J. Russo did another fine job with his performance of this book. He’s done a great job will all of the books in this series.
A copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author/narrator.
Original Review:
I really loved this novella but I was a little puzzled as to why the authors decided to release this one after Nice Catching You. As I wrote this review though, I came to understand the logic of publishing this book after Nice Catching You. I was very satisfied with how The New Next One ended but a large part of that was probably because I had already read Nice Catching You. So, my recommendation is to read that book before you read this one.
POTENTIAL SPOILER WARNING:
So, The New Next One (that unusual title makes sense after you’ve read the book) is a story that didn’t leave me feeling unfulfilled or sad. It’s not a tragic love story. It’s a story about all the passion and emotion of first love and I loved it.
A 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***
July 1, 2022
It’s sweet seeing first time love bloom knowing how both MCs have their HEAs with other people within this series. First love is something to cherish for sure.
January 22, 2021
The New Next One is a sweet friends to lovers romance by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood.
This is a tale of two best friends and teammates and their developing relationship into secret boyfriends. I enjoy this story immensely. The poor guys and their need to be secreted is so sad, yet completely realistic.
I adore sports romances and this one is just that. A young adult tale, set at a boarding school, these two hockey players discover their attraction is mutual, deciding to act on it.
Their story includes first times, sexual discoveries, and lots of sneaking around. It also includes an obstacle and tough decisions. And plenty of emotion. Oh man, this is a heartfelt read that had me in tears.
It Nick's start, as he's finding himself and his first love. But don't be looking for a happily ever after. I need my hands on the next book now!
The New Next One is heartfelt young adult/new adult sports romance. This Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood tale is a realistic short story that's perfect when you're in the mood for a tender first love tale.
This is a tale of two best friends and teammates and their developing relationship into secret boyfriends. I enjoy this story immensely. The poor guys and their need to be secreted is so sad, yet completely realistic.
I adore sports romances and this one is just that. A young adult tale, set at a boarding school, these two hockey players discover their attraction is mutual, deciding to act on it.
Their story includes first times, sexual discoveries, and lots of sneaking around. It also includes an obstacle and tough decisions. And plenty of emotion. Oh man, this is a heartfelt read that had me in tears.
It Nick's start, as he's finding himself and his first love. But don't be looking for a happily ever after. I need my hands on the next book now!
The New Next One is heartfelt young adult/new adult sports romance. This Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood tale is a realistic short story that's perfect when you're in the mood for a tender first love tale.
July 15, 2022
4.5 Stars!
This was bittersweet for me. For one part, I really liked Nick and Tyler individually and together. Their jump from friends to lovers was seamless and even if they had to keep their relationship a secret from everyone in their school and their team, it worked for them. For the other part, since this is the prequel to Nice Catching You, I knew how this book was going to end and it hurt.
This was a short audiobook, filled with all the awe and tender hotness of that first love, masterfully narrated by Nick J. Russo who just brings those youthful feelings forth with his voice. Definitely a recommendation from me!
This was bittersweet for me. For one part, I really liked Nick and Tyler individually and together. Their jump from friends to lovers was seamless and even if they had to keep their relationship a secret from everyone in their school and their team, it worked for them. For the other part, since this is the prequel to Nice Catching You, I knew how this book was going to end and it hurt.
This was a short audiobook, filled with all the awe and tender hotness of that first love, masterfully narrated by Nick J. Russo who just brings those youthful feelings forth with his voice. Definitely a recommendation from me!
January 24, 2021
Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood are Phenomenal Authors. The stories they write come from their hearts. Nick and Tyler's Story is no different. This book is Fantastic! From page One to the end I have fallen in love, cried and laughed. The Friendship that Nick and Tyler has just helped bond the love they have for each other. Please pick up your Copy today, you definitely will not be disappointed .
July 9, 2024
Oh good, we get the origin story of how Nick’s penis got its name. This was completely unnecessary and could have been summed up in like half a page in either Nick’s or Tyler’s book.
February 6, 2023
4⭐/ 2🌶️
Hockey Romance ✔
Forced Proximity ✔
Friends to Lovers ✔
Enemies to Lovers ✔
The Bethesda Barracuda’s Hockey Team stole a bit of my heart. I literally couldn’t review them individually because I binged them back/back/back.
The first two books, Nice Catching You and The New Next One read younger than the last 3 in the series. I’m not sure if it was an intentional choice by the authors because the characters were teenagers/young adults during the period these books took place or if the authors themselves matured in their writing.
I’m not sure what it is about hockey romances but they are the best. I especially love this series because of the bonds the characters have with each other and with the other members of the league. It’s these connections which give the series so much heart. Nick Johnson is the heart of this series and it is his story which inspires the rest. Although Nick is integral, he was not my favorite in the series. My favorite was Kevvy & Tyler’s story. I’m not usually a fan of second chance stories, but honestly this only qualifies in name only. Their relationship was more friends to lovers than second chance.
As far as I’m aware this series may be complete but there is still one story I hope gets told. I’m looking at you Gags.
Hockey Romance ✔
Forced Proximity ✔
Friends to Lovers ✔
Enemies to Lovers ✔
The Bethesda Barracuda’s Hockey Team stole a bit of my heart. I literally couldn’t review them individually because I binged them back/back/back.
The first two books, Nice Catching You and The New Next One read younger than the last 3 in the series. I’m not sure if it was an intentional choice by the authors because the characters were teenagers/young adults during the period these books took place or if the authors themselves matured in their writing.
I’m not sure what it is about hockey romances but they are the best. I especially love this series because of the bonds the characters have with each other and with the other members of the league. It’s these connections which give the series so much heart. Nick Johnson is the heart of this series and it is his story which inspires the rest. Although Nick is integral, he was not my favorite in the series. My favorite was Kevvy & Tyler’s story. I’m not usually a fan of second chance stories, but honestly this only qualifies in name only. Their relationship was more friends to lovers than second chance.
As far as I’m aware this series may be complete but there is still one story I hope gets told. I’m looking at you Gags.
May 18, 2021
This was a relatively short read but the quality of writing was so painful that it made it seem so much longer. There was so much telling instead of showing and when the authors bothered to describe something descriptions were so awkward and cringe worthy with such sappy romance a teenager would be ashamed of it. Some examples below:
If you are like me always on the look out for a good hockey mm romance I would suggest to keep a wide berth of this series.
Themes: friends to lovers, high school, teammates, closeted characters
We were both ramrod hard, and a desperate sword fight ensued.
“More than ever. Seeing you with Kev today—how sweet you were—did something to me. You’re it, Tyler. I want to be inside you more than anything.”
If you are like me always on the look out for a good hockey mm romance I would suggest to keep a wide berth of this series.
Themes: friends to lovers, high school, teammates, closeted characters
March 3, 2023
I DNF'd this at 14% because life is too short for bad dialog and shitty storytelling. I wanted so badly for this book to be good. It was promising, being a gay novel written by actual gay men...but, I'm sorry gents. You're just not very good writers. There were contradictions, a fat-shaming line, pretty sure another could be read as bi-phobic.
I can't even give this as scathing a review as I normally would because this just makes me so incredibly sad.
I can't even give this as scathing a review as I normally would because this just makes me so incredibly sad.
May 18, 2021
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: While this is the second in this series, it’s actually a prequel to the first book. It can be read as a standalone or before/after the first book in the series.
Nick Johnson is a star hockey player at his prep school in Minnesota. He’s gearing up for the season. One night after a win, his best friend Tyler, says something to him that seems like flirting. What? Nick’s wondering now if he’s reading this wrong, giving on vibes he’s certainly not intending to give or just what’s going on.
After the game, the team gets together and ultimately Nick and Tyler who have been best friends since they started high school, go off on their own to a secret place where they can be alone. And Tyler confesses that he’s had feeling for Nick for some time. Nick had assumed the Tyler was straight, but turns out all the girl talk was just that – talk. Nick confesses that he’s known he was gay for some time, but that hockey isn’t a welcoming environment for gay guys.
Nick and Tyler meet when they can, hiding their relationship from everyone. They are going to the same college, so there’s no reason to come out and they figure they can just keep in the closet and play their game. But then things go a bit differently and Nick ends up being the best high school player in the country and he gets another offer from another school. How will this affect their relationship? Can they make it?
This is a very sweet first love story. This is Nick’s backstory before going to UNY. I really liked seeing how he and Tyler negotiated their relationship and the tenderness they showed for one another. They were very cute together and honest. Their blooming love was very sweet. The love and trust they showed and the growth they made was really well written. This is a bit of a bittersweet story, but very authentic and true to love. Recommended especially for lovers of first time love and its challenges.
Note: While this is the second in this series, it’s actually a prequel to the first book. It can be read as a standalone or before/after the first book in the series.
Nick Johnson is a star hockey player at his prep school in Minnesota. He’s gearing up for the season. One night after a win, his best friend Tyler, says something to him that seems like flirting. What? Nick’s wondering now if he’s reading this wrong, giving on vibes he’s certainly not intending to give or just what’s going on.
After the game, the team gets together and ultimately Nick and Tyler who have been best friends since they started high school, go off on their own to a secret place where they can be alone. And Tyler confesses that he’s had feeling for Nick for some time. Nick had assumed the Tyler was straight, but turns out all the girl talk was just that – talk. Nick confesses that he’s known he was gay for some time, but that hockey isn’t a welcoming environment for gay guys.
Nick and Tyler meet when they can, hiding their relationship from everyone. They are going to the same college, so there’s no reason to come out and they figure they can just keep in the closet and play their game. But then things go a bit differently and Nick ends up being the best high school player in the country and he gets another offer from another school. How will this affect their relationship? Can they make it?
This is a very sweet first love story. This is Nick’s backstory before going to UNY. I really liked seeing how he and Tyler negotiated their relationship and the tenderness they showed for one another. They were very cute together and honest. Their blooming love was very sweet. The love and trust they showed and the growth they made was really well written. This is a bit of a bittersweet story, but very authentic and true to love. Recommended especially for lovers of first time love and its challenges.
January 24, 2021
I don't think the English language has the right word to describe how I felt about this book from the writing team that is Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood. With this prequel to 'Nice Catching You', they have ticked every box and raised the proverbial bar significantly. It's shorter than their books normally are but they have left absolutely nothing out; you will not be disappointed at all!
Taking us back to where it all began for Nick we find him in the closet at college on an ice hockey scholarship about to move onto his next uni; but what uni will he go to is the question. Especially after Nick's best friend Tyler starts making unexpected passes at him at the end of a game whilst still on the ice, setting Nick on fire.
As always Ryan and Josh have written a beautiful book full of emotional warmth, camaraderie, humour, sizzling sexual chemistry, ice hockey players who can't express their true sexuality in public, walks in the snow with snow ball fights, burgers at the diner, pizza, workouts in the gym, mutual support, and support for others.
The pace of this book is great, covering a multitude of subject areas for the late teenagers as they travel their way through their final months at college. Through the words, the reader becomes part of the angst, the love, the chilly walks, the glory, the fun, the chemistry, the hiding in the library basement, the decision making, the disappointment! It all flows, at great pace; R&J have managed to capture the novella rhythm perfectly.
I loved this book; it's amazing to read and then go straight into 'Nice Catching You', otherwise you'll be asking yourself what happened next and you definitely want to know!!!
I'm totally recommending this and all other Ryan Taylor and Josh Harwood books to you, they are fantastic books xx
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Taking us back to where it all began for Nick we find him in the closet at college on an ice hockey scholarship about to move onto his next uni; but what uni will he go to is the question. Especially after Nick's best friend Tyler starts making unexpected passes at him at the end of a game whilst still on the ice, setting Nick on fire.
As always Ryan and Josh have written a beautiful book full of emotional warmth, camaraderie, humour, sizzling sexual chemistry, ice hockey players who can't express their true sexuality in public, walks in the snow with snow ball fights, burgers at the diner, pizza, workouts in the gym, mutual support, and support for others.
The pace of this book is great, covering a multitude of subject areas for the late teenagers as they travel their way through their final months at college. Through the words, the reader becomes part of the angst, the love, the chilly walks, the glory, the fun, the chemistry, the hiding in the library basement, the decision making, the disappointment! It all flows, at great pace; R&J have managed to capture the novella rhythm perfectly.
I loved this book; it's amazing to read and then go straight into 'Nice Catching You', otherwise you'll be asking yourself what happened next and you definitely want to know!!!
I'm totally recommending this and all other Ryan Taylor and Josh Harwood books to you, they are fantastic books xx
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2022
𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘐 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸. 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘰𝘶𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶-𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦. 𝘕𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘴 𝘢 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘪𝘤𝘬 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘯.
Kevin and Tyler have been best friends since the start of prep school and have secretly crushed on each other for the entire time. Tyler finally gets the courage to say something and their relationship changes into something great but with college around the corner, they will need to make a tough decision.
I loved this look back into Kevin and Tyler’s beginnings and getting to see what led to the future events. Although they are adorable together, I loved their individual stories. I would recommend reading this book first before the rest of the series but either way you read it, it is still enjoyable.
Nick J. Russo does another amazing job at bringing the characters and story to life.
The New Next One contains… mm, prep school, sports (hockey), first times, closeted, secret relationship, single first-person point of view.
4.5 Maple Leafs
*advanced copy kindly provided and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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Kevin and Tyler have been best friends since the start of prep school and have secretly crushed on each other for the entire time. Tyler finally gets the courage to say something and their relationship changes into something great but with college around the corner, they will need to make a tough decision.
I loved this look back into Kevin and Tyler’s beginnings and getting to see what led to the future events. Although they are adorable together, I loved their individual stories. I would recommend reading this book first before the rest of the series but either way you read it, it is still enjoyable.
Nick J. Russo does another amazing job at bringing the characters and story to life.
The New Next One contains… mm, prep school, sports (hockey), first times, closeted, secret relationship, single first-person point of view.
4.5 Maple Leafs
*advanced copy kindly provided and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
Follow → Facebook ❤️ Instagram 🖤 Twitter ❤️ TikTok 🖤 Blog
February 1, 2021
*Spoilers* If you don't like cliffhangers, this is one that will keep you wanting more to know the end story. I normally hate them, but this book and the end are so worth waiting for the next to come.
I can honestly say this has been one of the hardest reviews for me to write. I really would like to convey the love that Tyler and Nick had and the ups and downs they had to go through being closeted hockey players. We always pull for the underdogs. In this case, they had a great story of young love. Tyler and Kevin were so sweet and loving together. They grew up around each other and went to school then off to college. Life was good for them. Then there comes a curve ball and Nick is offered the chance to play in another college miles and miles away. Will the love they have last? I gotta say no. Their young love does not last but their friendship does, so that has to count for something. I really did love this journey and the story. It was so realistic of what young love goes through. Great story. So, it is going to be a must that we read the next book to get Nick's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I can honestly say this has been one of the hardest reviews for me to write. I really would like to convey the love that Tyler and Nick had and the ups and downs they had to go through being closeted hockey players. We always pull for the underdogs. In this case, they had a great story of young love. Tyler and Kevin were so sweet and loving together. They grew up around each other and went to school then off to college. Life was good for them. Then there comes a curve ball and Nick is offered the chance to play in another college miles and miles away. Will the love they have last? I gotta say no. Their young love does not last but their friendship does, so that has to count for something. I really did love this journey and the story. It was so realistic of what young love goes through. Great story. So, it is going to be a must that we read the next book to get Nick's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2021
The New Next One by Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood
This is Nick and Tyler’s story. This is a prequel to the book Nice Catching You which is Nick and Jacob’s story of finding forever love. I loved how the authors presented Nick and Tyler’s story. A story of finding your first love that was so much fun to read. I recommend that you read both The New Next One and Nice Catching You if you haven’t. Both books are entertaining, fun and hot but all bring awareness to difficult situations and topics. I purchased both the ebook and the paperback. If you haven’t purchased paperbacks by these authors, you are missing out. Their paperback books are a nice size and the quality is excellent. I don’t normally buy paperbacks but once I purchased one of their paperback books I was blown away at the quality and the beauty. I now collect everyone of their paperbacks and their ebooks are always a one-click for me. After checking out The New Next One and Nice Catching You be sure to check Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood’s other books. You will be glad you did.
This is Nick and Tyler’s story. This is a prequel to the book Nice Catching You which is Nick and Jacob’s story of finding forever love. I loved how the authors presented Nick and Tyler’s story. A story of finding your first love that was so much fun to read. I recommend that you read both The New Next One and Nice Catching You if you haven’t. Both books are entertaining, fun and hot but all bring awareness to difficult situations and topics. I purchased both the ebook and the paperback. If you haven’t purchased paperbacks by these authors, you are missing out. Their paperback books are a nice size and the quality is excellent. I don’t normally buy paperbacks but once I purchased one of their paperback books I was blown away at the quality and the beauty. I now collect everyone of their paperbacks and their ebooks are always a one-click for me. After checking out The New Next One and Nice Catching You be sure to check Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood’s other books. You will be glad you did.
January 25, 2021
This was an absolute fantastic prequel to Nice Catching You. I loved getting to know Nick better and how get came to be before he met Jacob. I truly loved Nick and Tyler together. These two best friends have hidden their feelings for years until it was too much to take. I loved how devoted Nick and Tyler were to each even though they knew time was not on their side. My heart broke for these two but knowing that Nick got his perfect man in Jacob made the heartbreak worth it! After reading this, I actually went back and re-read Nice Catching You because I loved Nick and Jacob's story so much. I would highly recommend reading this book and Nice Catching You but I would also highly recommend Mr. Ryan and Mr. Joshua as two truly amazing and gifted authors and I can't wait to see what they have in store for us next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2021
Best friends Nick Johnson and Tyler Jensen are the stars of their school’s hockey team. They are eager to see how far they can go with their skills, perhaps even make it to the pros. Neither knew the other was gay and, being athletes, that information can bring on more pressure if the team won’t accept it.
This friends-to-lovers story will introduce the reader to these young men who are experiencing growing up, coming of age angst, hope, career aspirations, and first-time falling in love. Life is challenging in the best of situations, but can be more so when you are young and not prepared for what you may come up against. Do they have any kind of support system to help them meet their challenges? Are they ready to take a stand for what matters most?
The authors do a good job of presenting their story, but be ready for your own emotional responses to some of the concerns these two will face as they confront difficult choices along the way.
This friends-to-lovers story will introduce the reader to these young men who are experiencing growing up, coming of age angst, hope, career aspirations, and first-time falling in love. Life is challenging in the best of situations, but can be more so when you are young and not prepared for what you may come up against. Do they have any kind of support system to help them meet their challenges? Are they ready to take a stand for what matters most?
The authors do a good job of presenting their story, but be ready for your own emotional responses to some of the concerns these two will face as they confront difficult choices along the way.
April 26, 2021
I enjoyed this sweet, angsty, poignant coming-of-age story. Nick and Tyler are wonderful characters. They have been friends a long time, and then become something more. They both discover they are gay, and it’s a sweet story of first young love. But life gives us hard choices sometimes and we have to decide what is most important to us. Nick and Tyler are both hockey players, a sport that is not kind to gay players, so they hide their love, sneaking kisses and time together. As they grow and mature, things change and opportunities arise. Will they stay together for the long haul or will their love fade like a summer romance? I loved this story and the characters. Everything didn’t turn out exactly as I might have hoped, but I know there are more books to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2024
I listen to this on audible I loved this novella. I loved reading about Nick‘s first love with Tyler. It was super cute, but sad at the way they had a part, but I know they both have their happily ever after, but it was just cute and to read how they had to hide their feeling for so long because they were not sure if they were actually into each other, this was narrated by Nick Jay Russo, and I absolutely love him. He brings out the emotions of the characters and this was even like I said a short Novella and he still had my heart breaking when Nick and Tyler had to part. Not only does Nick have me fall in love with the characters but so do the authors I absolutely love this series this hockey series it’s wonderful and it was great like I said to read this little Novella and get a backstory for Nick so I absolutely recommend.
January 22, 2021
The New Next One by Ryan Taylor & Josh Harwood.
Nick Johnson a hockey player has always liked, well ,more than liked the look of Tyler Jensen , they play in the same school hockey team, naturally see each other a few times a week .
Eighteen year old Nick knows who he is, knowing that being gay in sport won't be easy ..but life sometimes does a back flip..
Nick hopefully thinks that one day he won’t feel like an empty shell watching his friends having a love life that he longs for, even thought it might have to be hidden..
Two hockey players who know the game well always rise up to the challenges , but do they know each other that well!
Maybe life isn't as hard as we think.
A lovely journey of friends to lovers who mature as young men.
A short read that packs a punch.
Nick Johnson a hockey player has always liked, well ,more than liked the look of Tyler Jensen , they play in the same school hockey team, naturally see each other a few times a week .
Eighteen year old Nick knows who he is, knowing that being gay in sport won't be easy ..but life sometimes does a back flip..
Nick hopefully thinks that one day he won’t feel like an empty shell watching his friends having a love life that he longs for, even thought it might have to be hidden..
Two hockey players who know the game well always rise up to the challenges , but do they know each other that well!
Maybe life isn't as hard as we think.
A lovely journey of friends to lovers who mature as young men.
A short read that packs a punch.
January 24, 2021
This book touched my heart and called to my humanity. Nick and Tyler’s coming of age story is beautifully written and tells the story of young love. The love these two share is intense and fierce from the very beginning, however it is also a love that must remain hidden. These authors poignantly address the issue of athletes being forced to remain closeted for fear of retribution. This is more than your average romance, it’s a story that has the ability to change someone’s life. I’m not going to lie, this book stirred up many emotions and even some tears. Alas, Nick & Tyler do not get their HEA, but Nick will find his forever love in the book Nice Catching You. Both are absolute must reads.
May 13, 2021
Sweet prequel
This is a sweet prequel to Nice Catching You. Nick and Tyler are best friends and teammates. It's their last year of school before going off to college together. Nick has been secretly crushing on Tyler for years, but one night after a hockey game Tyler reveals he has been crushing on Nick too. Having to keep their relationship a secret can be tough, especially as the end of the year approaches and one of them is given an unexpected opportunity. I was nervous to read this since I had already read about Nick's HEA, but it was sweet reading about his first love. It also helped prepare for the heartache since I knew it was coming. But the heart won't hurt too long, Tyler's HEA is coming soon. I can't wait to read all about it!
This is a sweet prequel to Nice Catching You. Nick and Tyler are best friends and teammates. It's their last year of school before going off to college together. Nick has been secretly crushing on Tyler for years, but one night after a hockey game Tyler reveals he has been crushing on Nick too. Having to keep their relationship a secret can be tough, especially as the end of the year approaches and one of them is given an unexpected opportunity. I was nervous to read this since I had already read about Nick's HEA, but it was sweet reading about his first love. It also helped prepare for the heartache since I knew it was coming. But the heart won't hurt too long, Tyler's HEA is coming soon. I can't wait to read all about it!
October 24, 2022
I’m seeing a trend here…
I read Nice Catching You (Barracudas book 1) first but I wish that I would have read this one first. Written in first person POV, all from Nick’s POV. Good amount of M/M sexy times (both guys are 18). This book does not have a HEA or even a HFN. It doesn’t have a cliffhanger but the expectation is that you’ll go read (or have read) Nick’s book and then Tyler’s book.
My issue is that this author likes the “epilogue dump” - like an information dump, he uses the epilogue to relay a bunch of information instead of letting the MC experience it. It was worse in book 1 but it comes across as an abrupt, unfinished ending.
I read Nice Catching You (Barracudas book 1) first but I wish that I would have read this one first. Written in first person POV, all from Nick’s POV. Good amount of M/M sexy times (both guys are 18). This book does not have a HEA or even a HFN. It doesn’t have a cliffhanger but the expectation is that you’ll go read (or have read) Nick’s book and then Tyler’s book.
My issue is that this author likes the “epilogue dump” - like an information dump, he uses the epilogue to relay a bunch of information instead of letting the MC experience it. It was worse in book 1 but it comes across as an abrupt, unfinished ending.
March 19, 2023
I found out this was a prequel to the Bethesda Barracudas series so I definitely wanted to read it first before diving back into this universe. (Mohegan U has been so awesome so couldn’t wait to get started!) This was short and sweet but did not disappoint! Nick and Tyler’s backstory was swoony, cute, and emotional in many ways. I’m glad I read this before starting Book 1! There’s a few characters who will apparently show up in other books so I’m excited to see what’s ahead. The authors are so amazing. Hockey tropes are some of my favorites so this was a great read. A quick one at that - I sat down and read it in one sweep ! Anyhow, onto Nick’s continuation in the first book !!
July 26, 2024
Cute little short that gives a bit of background on Nick from Nice Catching You and a small preview of Tyler and Kevin who are our main characters in Fire In the Ice.
I thought it was sweet to see them as young high school kids. I can’t even imagine how impossible it would feel to have to deny a part of yourself in order to do what you love. So seeing them find a slice of happiness for themselves was lovely.
As young love goes sometimes, theirs didn’t withstand time and distance, but how often are our high school loves our forever loves? Kudos to Tyler for having the brass balls to shoot his shot with his best friend. That certainly wouldn’t have been easy.
I thought it was sweet to see them as young high school kids. I can’t even imagine how impossible it would feel to have to deny a part of yourself in order to do what you love. So seeing them find a slice of happiness for themselves was lovely.
As young love goes sometimes, theirs didn’t withstand time and distance, but how often are our high school loves our forever loves? Kudos to Tyler for having the brass balls to shoot his shot with his best friend. That certainly wouldn’t have been easy.
March 6, 2026
This book itself was actually a very quick little read that gave a good window into Nick from the previous book and his first love with his high school best friend, Tyler Jensen.
With that said. The way this book ends. It’s bittersweet for both boys. But the way it ties back to how the first book opens, knowing that Nick gets his HEA after all the darkness that swallows him up after his failed relationship with Tyler, and it is tolerable.
Also seeing Kevin and how he comes out to both Nick and Tyler, being younger and rejected by Tyler, that’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out in the next book.
With that said. The way this book ends. It’s bittersweet for both boys. But the way it ties back to how the first book opens, knowing that Nick gets his HEA after all the darkness that swallows him up after his failed relationship with Tyler, and it is tolerable.
Also seeing Kevin and how he comes out to both Nick and Tyler, being younger and rejected by Tyler, that’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2021
3.5 stars
I’ve been meaning to try this author duo for some time now, but with my never-ending to-be-read list, I hadn’t gotten an opportunity. However, as a big hockey fan, I couldn’t resist the chance to read The New Next One.
This short acts as a prequel of sorts to the first book of the series- at least in regards to the timeline. Fair warning, if reading this as a prequel, it’s a bit different and details the first of love of a main character from the series, so the ending may not be what some readers prefer or expect. I suspect if you are a stickler for a happily-ever-after, it would be best to read this series in order and let The New Next One be a nice follow up that provides some background/ history for Nick.
All that said, I did enjoy The New Next One and am happy I read it in the order I did. The writing was solid, the pacing balanced, and the romance sweet and fitting with the young adult feel. I also really liked that this book examined some difficult feelings the characters encountered as closeted high school athletes. If you enjoy hockey romances, and like a mixture of youthful sweetness with poignant emotion, I would certainly recommend this series and short.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I’ve been meaning to try this author duo for some time now, but with my never-ending to-be-read list, I hadn’t gotten an opportunity. However, as a big hockey fan, I couldn’t resist the chance to read The New Next One.
This short acts as a prequel of sorts to the first book of the series- at least in regards to the timeline. Fair warning, if reading this as a prequel, it’s a bit different and details the first of love of a main character from the series, so the ending may not be what some readers prefer or expect. I suspect if you are a stickler for a happily-ever-after, it would be best to read this series in order and let The New Next One be a nice follow up that provides some background/ history for Nick.
All that said, I did enjoy The New Next One and am happy I read it in the order I did. The writing was solid, the pacing balanced, and the romance sweet and fitting with the young adult feel. I also really liked that this book examined some difficult feelings the characters encountered as closeted high school athletes. If you enjoy hockey romances, and like a mixture of youthful sweetness with poignant emotion, I would certainly recommend this series and short.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 22, 2021
You will love it!!!!
The New Next One is a prequel to Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood’s awesome holiday novel Nice Catching You. It follows main character Nick as he falls in love for the first time. This friends to lovers story will pull you in and make you fall in love right along with these characters. Since we know that true love finds Nick eventually, we can sit back and enjoy this story full of warmth and firsts. You will truly love this New Adult, coming of age, and finding of first love story!
The New Next One is a prequel to Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood’s awesome holiday novel Nice Catching You. It follows main character Nick as he falls in love for the first time. This friends to lovers story will pull you in and make you fall in love right along with these characters. Since we know that true love finds Nick eventually, we can sit back and enjoy this story full of warmth and firsts. You will truly love this New Adult, coming of age, and finding of first love story!
January 25, 2021
The New Next One is a beautifully written sweet friends to lovers coming of age story. In this book Nick and his friend Tyler explore their more than friendly feelings for each other. They are both on the school hockey team and have to be careful no one finds out about them. This is such a beautiful story and I was glad to see some of Nick's back story. Now it's time for a re-read of Nice Catching You, which should be enjoyed next as it continues Nick's story. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to more from these amazing authors.
January 29, 2021
What a good story about friends who grow up together, learn to play hockey well together, are there for one another and unbeknownst to one another they also are both gay and have feelings for one another. Which also comes with complications as they are in a sport that is not exactly gay friendly and they are playing on the same team so have to hide their relationship while being together a lot. What a neat coming of age, friends to lovers, sports romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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