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The NGU Polar Storms #1
Puck Around and Find Out
Ex-Figure Skater – Speed Demon Hockey Player
Wystan Finch is killing it as a hockey player after leaving Olympic figure skating due to a breakdown. A scholarship leads him to New Gothenburg University, where he joins the Polar Storms, but his arrival isn’t all fun and games. One of his teammates, Atlas, hates him from the moment he arrives. Wystan doesn’t understand why Atlas dislikes him so much, but he takes joy in irritating Atlas whenever he can. If Wystan feels more toward his rival, that’s only his business.
Captain – Or Else
Everything Atlas Frosteson wants is within his grasp. His one goal in life is to become the captain of the Polar Storms. On the day when his dream should come true, he loses the team vote to a hotshot new player, Wystan. When hate turns into something more, Atlas fights against the emotions that threaten to ruin everything he has worked hard for. His father would never forgive him or be proud of him if he gave in to the temptation of chasing after Wystan.
Hate Twists into a New Feeling
No matter which direction Atlas turns, Wystan is always there, both on and off the ice. Atlas is infuriated when his father starts dating Wystan’s mother, bringing them closer in proximity. Atlas’s obsession with Wystan could destroy his hockey career, yet he can’t get enough.
In the end, will Atlas succeed in getting rid of Wystan and taking his life back? And if he does, will he regret it?
Wystan Finch is killing it as a hockey player after leaving Olympic figure skating due to a breakdown. A scholarship leads him to New Gothenburg University, where he joins the Polar Storms, but his arrival isn’t all fun and games. One of his teammates, Atlas, hates him from the moment he arrives. Wystan doesn’t understand why Atlas dislikes him so much, but he takes joy in irritating Atlas whenever he can. If Wystan feels more toward his rival, that’s only his business.
Captain – Or Else
Everything Atlas Frosteson wants is within his grasp. His one goal in life is to become the captain of the Polar Storms. On the day when his dream should come true, he loses the team vote to a hotshot new player, Wystan. When hate turns into something more, Atlas fights against the emotions that threaten to ruin everything he has worked hard for. His father would never forgive him or be proud of him if he gave in to the temptation of chasing after Wystan.
Hate Twists into a New Feeling
No matter which direction Atlas turns, Wystan is always there, both on and off the ice. Atlas is infuriated when his father starts dating Wystan’s mother, bringing them closer in proximity. Atlas’s obsession with Wystan could destroy his hockey career, yet he can’t get enough.
In the end, will Atlas succeed in getting rid of Wystan and taking his life back? And if he does, will he regret it?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2023
127 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Ki Brightly
90 books708 followersI spend most of my days writing, editing, and perfecting the craft of storytelling.
A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.
A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
January 2, 2025
Exactly the kind of trashy drama I love to read 😂 I always keep meaning to read more from these authors as they have a massive storyverse and I do like what I've read so far.
I actually really enjoyed Wystan and Atlas together. I loved how Wy called Atlas 'my world' even if it did start out as a way to annoy him. Enemies to lovers is probably my favourite trope, but throw in 'stepbrothers' and teammates as well and it's a perfect recipe for me. These two were so ridiculous but I thoroughly enjoyed their melodramatic ways.
The family drama reminded me so much of 00s teen tv (Think The OC and Gossip Girl) and I'm so here for it. Wystan's mum was great and I did like how Atlas's dad woke up to what a twat he was being. I fully empathised with Atlas when his dad was being such a dickhead towards him.
I'm also super intrigued by a lot of the side characters so I hope there are more stories and more drama to come.
I actually really enjoyed Wystan and Atlas together. I loved how Wy called Atlas 'my world' even if it did start out as a way to annoy him. Enemies to lovers is probably my favourite trope, but throw in 'stepbrothers' and teammates as well and it's a perfect recipe for me. These two were so ridiculous but I thoroughly enjoyed their melodramatic ways.
The family drama reminded me so much of 00s teen tv (Think The OC and Gossip Girl) and I'm so here for it. Wystan's mum was great and I did like how Atlas's dad woke up to what a twat he was being. I fully empathised with Atlas when his dad was being such a dickhead towards him.
I'm also super intrigued by a lot of the side characters so I hope there are more stories and more drama to come.
August 24, 2025
I think of this story in two ways. Things that worked for me and those that didn't.
Things that worked.
Nobody bothered pretending to be icked out by the step brother thing. It's a pet peeve of mine when people act like it's some taboo thing, especially when these two met basically as adults. I love that it wasn't even an issue. Not for the team, and not for the parents. Hell, especially not the parents. The mom helped them keep the secret and when the dad found out, he was mad because he thought Atlas was doing it out of revenge.
They were both dicks. And the reasons for the rivalry make sense. Especially for Atlas. If my dad married someone who came with a fully grown son and ensured said son joined my team, only for said son to take the captaincy I'd been angling for for years, I'd feel some type of way, too. And he was a dick to Wystan because of this, so Wystan was a reactionary dick to him. See? Sense. And they never spent a villainous number of hours meditating upon this rivalry.
The dickishness was evenly spread. Atlas gets to be a dick in the first half - for good reason, and Wystan gets the honors in the second half - also for good reason. It's a balance I support.
Things that didn't work.
The sex. A lot of it felt vengeful, especially at the start, and I didn't like how Atlas talked to Wystan through it, even though Wy really seemed not to mind. I get that it's rivals to lovers but can we keep the bedroom as the only time you get along? I need a foundation for the romance, dammit, and clearly I'm not going to get it outside the bedroom. Sigh.
The whole deadbeat dad cured by love schtick they got going for Atlas' dad towards the end. Sure, he was THERE. Physically. But in every other way, that man was abusive to his son. Emotionally. Financially. Physically. I understood a lot of the resentment Atlas felt for him. There are multiple instances of him being a shit parent, and I'm not convinced by the whole come to Jesus moment he had towards the end. And he's a big part of their story so I'm not sure I can push aside my feelings for him.
In general, though? I'm unsure how I felt about this one. I liked elements of it but with everything put together, I still have a general 'meh' feeling about it.
I am once again begging for a half star rating system because this was a solid 2.5* read if there ever was one.
It's not fair to me to HAVE to rate it 3* and it's not fair to the book to say it was a 2* read.
Things that worked.
Nobody bothered pretending to be icked out by the step brother thing. It's a pet peeve of mine when people act like it's some taboo thing, especially when these two met basically as adults. I love that it wasn't even an issue. Not for the team, and not for the parents. Hell, especially not the parents. The mom helped them keep the secret and when the dad found out, he was mad because he thought Atlas was doing it out of revenge.
They were both dicks. And the reasons for the rivalry make sense. Especially for Atlas. If my dad married someone who came with a fully grown son and ensured said son joined my team, only for said son to take the captaincy I'd been angling for for years, I'd feel some type of way, too. And he was a dick to Wystan because of this, so Wystan was a reactionary dick to him. See? Sense. And they never spent a villainous number of hours meditating upon this rivalry.
The dickishness was evenly spread. Atlas gets to be a dick in the first half - for good reason, and Wystan gets the honors in the second half - also for good reason. It's a balance I support.
Things that didn't work.
The sex. A lot of it felt vengeful, especially at the start, and I didn't like how Atlas talked to Wystan through it, even though Wy really seemed not to mind. I get that it's rivals to lovers but can we keep the bedroom as the only time you get along? I need a foundation for the romance, dammit, and clearly I'm not going to get it outside the bedroom. Sigh.
The whole deadbeat dad cured by love schtick they got going for Atlas' dad towards the end. Sure, he was THERE. Physically. But in every other way, that man was abusive to his son. Emotionally. Financially. Physically. I understood a lot of the resentment Atlas felt for him. There are multiple instances of him being a shit parent, and I'm not convinced by the whole come to Jesus moment he had towards the end. And he's a big part of their story so I'm not sure I can push aside my feelings for him.
In general, though? I'm unsure how I felt about this one. I liked elements of it but with everything put together, I still have a general 'meh' feeling about it.
I am once again begging for a half star rating system because this was a solid 2.5* read if there ever was one.
It's not fair to me to HAVE to rate it 3* and it's not fair to the book to say it was a 2* read.
January 15, 2024
I was really excited to pick this one up!! I’ve only ever read one other Ki Brightly and MD Gregory book, and it was much different than this one. That being said, it just shows the versatility behind these two, and how well they write together!
We meet Wystan Finch and Atlas Frosteson—two rival players on the same, NGU Polar Storms team. Wystan is the new guy; they very good, very fast new guy, and it has Atlas quite angry! The hate that Atlas has for Wystan at first is suffocating and you can feel just how much it consumes his every being, even through his attempts to sabotage Wy. Ki and MD definitely wrote the tension between these two really well; the build up, the reconciling, all of it was so smooth!
It has been quite some time since I finished a book in ONE DAY, but this one had me hooked and I didn’t want to put it down. Wystan was an extremely likable character and I loved that what happens to him, brings out another side of him, because honestly, a scholarship, superstar athlete, would react the same way he did! Ki and MD never disappoint when it comes to giving us the spice in their books—but as the relationship between Atlas and Wy grew and progressed, so did the way in which they were connecting through sex.
The plot was built really well, the characters grew and learned and leaned on one another, and it was just an all around a solid book! I cannot wait to see what they give us next in this world!
Total Rating: 4.5⭐️
We meet Wystan Finch and Atlas Frosteson—two rival players on the same, NGU Polar Storms team. Wystan is the new guy; they very good, very fast new guy, and it has Atlas quite angry! The hate that Atlas has for Wystan at first is suffocating and you can feel just how much it consumes his every being, even through his attempts to sabotage Wy. Ki and MD definitely wrote the tension between these two really well; the build up, the reconciling, all of it was so smooth!
It has been quite some time since I finished a book in ONE DAY, but this one had me hooked and I didn’t want to put it down. Wystan was an extremely likable character and I loved that what happens to him, brings out another side of him, because honestly, a scholarship, superstar athlete, would react the same way he did! Ki and MD never disappoint when it comes to giving us the spice in their books—but as the relationship between Atlas and Wy grew and progressed, so did the way in which they were connecting through sex.
The plot was built really well, the characters grew and learned and leaned on one another, and it was just an all around a solid book! I cannot wait to see what they give us next in this world!
Total Rating: 4.5⭐️
December 20, 2023
Both Wystan and Atlas are part of the Polar Storms Ice Hockey Team of the New Gothenburg University.
Wystan is their latest addition, and Atlas hates him. Wystan gets way too much attention and could even get the position Atlas dreams of, Captain of the team.
It’s even worse, because Atlas’ dad dates Wystan’s mother 😡, and they will move in.
Oh boy, Atlas’ Dad was not Team Atlas but Team Wystan, that hurt!
What we can see are two guys who are enemies, on and off the ice.
They have sexual encounters full of roughness and aggression.
But, things change when both get to know each other better.
I love the ongoing tension, the push and pull, the hateful energy, and later on way more feeling.
There are hockey matters but also huge family matters.
All engagingly written, nice flow, enough depth and development, full of chemistry and emotions.
These guys and their team are a great promise for the next story of this series.
Wystan is their latest addition, and Atlas hates him. Wystan gets way too much attention and could even get the position Atlas dreams of, Captain of the team.
It’s even worse, because Atlas’ dad dates Wystan’s mother 😡, and they will move in.
Oh boy, Atlas’ Dad was not Team Atlas but Team Wystan, that hurt!
What we can see are two guys who are enemies, on and off the ice.
They have sexual encounters full of roughness and aggression.
But, things change when both get to know each other better.
I love the ongoing tension, the push and pull, the hateful energy, and later on way more feeling.
There are hockey matters but also huge family matters.
All engagingly written, nice flow, enough depth and development, full of chemistry and emotions.
These guys and their team are a great promise for the next story of this series.
March 1, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a decent book. The rivalry/hate/cruelty was agonizing and nerve wrecking to read. Both Atlas and Wy were not likeable at all. I had trouble picking one or the other. Throughout the book their reactions were extreme and annoying. But somehow that all melted down towards the HEA. Many parts were simplistic and the author made a few 'easy' choices that look silly on the page. (The kneeling before the game scene, then the whole Wy's dad scene)
Not a perfect book, but it kept me there.
This was a decent book. The rivalry/hate/cruelty was agonizing and nerve wrecking to read. Both Atlas and Wy were not likeable at all. I had trouble picking one or the other. Throughout the book their reactions were extreme and annoying. But somehow that all melted down towards the HEA. Many parts were simplistic and the author made a few 'easy' choices that look silly on the page. (The kneeling before the game scene, then the whole Wy's dad scene)
Not a perfect book, but it kept me there.
Read
December 14, 2023Hello and welcome back to New Gothenburg!
If you like hockey, M.D. Gregory and I hope you'll have fun with this book. If you don't really know much about hockey, never fear, this book is still for you! We've written it in such a way that it should be enjoyable for everyone. We had a great time writing all the ways Atlas and Wy hated each other, until their relationship became more.
Thanks for reading stories in New Gothenburg!
~Ki Brightly
If you like hockey, M.D. Gregory and I hope you'll have fun with this book. If you don't really know much about hockey, never fear, this book is still for you! We've written it in such a way that it should be enjoyable for everyone. We had a great time writing all the ways Atlas and Wy hated each other, until their relationship became more.
Thanks for reading stories in New Gothenburg!
~Ki Brightly
January 16, 2024
2.75 stars? I feel like this sits right in between 2.5 and 3 stars.
And that's mostly due to how much I disliked mfing Atlas. The start of this book made me so mad I was actually confused by how strongly it got to me.
I have read the rivals to lovers many, many times, especially in the past few weeks. I am used to it, to the boys acting like little shits before they fall in love. I have even read a few of the same "You stole the captaincy from me and I will make you pay!" plotline, and I loved it.
Why did this not work for me? Atlas, who has been around the team for a while and expected to become captain after he cozied up with the former cap, is angry as heck when the title he believed he deserves is snatched away by a promising new player. Who also happens to be the son of Atlas' dad's new girlfriend. And his new roommate as both Wystan and his mom have moved in Atlas' and his dad's house.
So when Atlas doesn't become captain... he decides to be the most insufferable person in existence. What bothered me though is not how he is mean to Wy but how little concern he has for the actual team and how his actions directly impact them. He acts like a child and constantly proves how people were right not to vote him captain. He doesn't deserve it! He sabotages everyone to get to Wy and he throws tantrums and he sulks and he is aggressive. Whatever.
Ok he has daddy issues, Ok he has a strange and kinda ambiguous history with the former captain that was barely addressed. Also that one scene where the former captain just watches Atlas go down because of a serious allergic reaction without caring felt so unreal I can't believe anyone would be *that* heartless and even if we went down the oh he is such a villain route, then why never bother mentioning him ever again after this? What was he even here for? He barely even made Wy jealous, that was juste... a weird useless subplot, I guess?
Wystan was cute as heck. Snarky, and funny and competent, I really liked him. I wish the story dived more into him beyond just his injury as most of the plot seemed to focus on Atlas instead? I loved him and his mom to bits though, that woman was everything and I still think she deserves better than Atlas' dad lol. Not sure I liked how Wy's depression / depressive state was handled though? It felt off and resolved way too easily, no real work required for a happy ending and a stable mental health.
I feel like the romance wasn't bad but it took me so long to just tolerate Atlas on page that I couldn't really enjoy it. Some stuff felt so random and so easily forgotten? I don't know I just wasn't convinced.
One thing I did like though was the side cast - I am desperate for a Thane x Boss book now, and one for Nikolai x London? maybe McAvoy's story? The Servian enforcer too! I might not have fallen in love with this book, I am definitely excited for more in this universe and I hope it was not meant as a standalone :,) IT WAS MORE THAN HINTED I FEEL LIKE I NEED ANSWERS NOW!!! Gimme more Thane!!!
And that's mostly due to how much I disliked mfing Atlas. The start of this book made me so mad I was actually confused by how strongly it got to me.
I have read the rivals to lovers many, many times, especially in the past few weeks. I am used to it, to the boys acting like little shits before they fall in love. I have even read a few of the same "You stole the captaincy from me and I will make you pay!" plotline, and I loved it.
Why did this not work for me? Atlas, who has been around the team for a while and expected to become captain after he cozied up with the former cap, is angry as heck when the title he believed he deserves is snatched away by a promising new player. Who also happens to be the son of Atlas' dad's new girlfriend. And his new roommate as both Wystan and his mom have moved in Atlas' and his dad's house.
So when Atlas doesn't become captain... he decides to be the most insufferable person in existence. What bothered me though is not how he is mean to Wy but how little concern he has for the actual team and how his actions directly impact them. He acts like a child and constantly proves how people were right not to vote him captain. He doesn't deserve it! He sabotages everyone to get to Wy and he throws tantrums and he sulks and he is aggressive. Whatever.
Ok he has daddy issues, Ok he has a strange and kinda ambiguous history with the former captain that was barely addressed. Also that one scene where the former captain just watches Atlas go down because of a serious allergic reaction without caring felt so unreal I can't believe anyone would be *that* heartless and even if we went down the oh he is such a villain route, then why never bother mentioning him ever again after this? What was he even here for? He barely even made Wy jealous, that was juste... a weird useless subplot, I guess?
Wystan was cute as heck. Snarky, and funny and competent, I really liked him. I wish the story dived more into him beyond just his injury as most of the plot seemed to focus on Atlas instead? I loved him and his mom to bits though, that woman was everything and I still think she deserves better than Atlas' dad lol. Not sure I liked how Wy's depression / depressive state was handled though? It felt off and resolved way too easily, no real work required for a happy ending and a stable mental health.
I feel like the romance wasn't bad but it took me so long to just tolerate Atlas on page that I couldn't really enjoy it. Some stuff felt so random and so easily forgotten? I don't know I just wasn't convinced.
One thing I did like though was the side cast - I am desperate for a Thane x Boss book now, and one for Nikolai x London? maybe McAvoy's story? The Servian enforcer too! I might not have fallen in love with this book, I am definitely excited for more in this universe and I hope it was not meant as a standalone :,) IT WAS MORE THAN HINTED I FEEL LIKE I NEED ANSWERS NOW!!! Gimme more Thane!!!
December 18, 2023
I keep trying these authors and keep consistently finding the same issue with their standalone books. They're really good at writing the first 80% of a book but time and time again the ending let's down the entire thing. On the flip side, their series are awesome and I think this is a sign they need to write longer books
This book didn't feel finished. Not by a long shot. So many issues weren't resolved and to be honest we didn't even get a clear discussion of what the relationship between the main characters was going to be.
My issues:
- Joseph. The man is straight up abusive to his son the entire book. Instead of either having him have some character growth or better yet, having the main characters leave him, we're given a half hearted comparison with Wys dad. Wys dad shows up at the end and is worse than Joseph, so we are just meant to accept that Joseph isn't that bad? Honestly, the whole relationship with Wys mum didn't make sense, because she is the sweetest, most caring person and I just don't believe she would stick around after watching how he treats both their kids
- Wys dad showing up. This just seemed like a random bit of drama thrown in to try to make Joseph seem better. It didn't make any sense with the rest of the story and could have been cut in favour of resolving some loose ends
- Wys injury. You can't heal mental health issues with a t shirt. When he gets injured, he clearly starts to suffer from depression and lashes out and pushes people away. But magically the team signs a t shirt and says he's a part of the team and then he's fine? It just lacked depth and this could have been a great moment for some character growth for Wy where he learns to address his demons rather than masking them with sport
- The relationship progression. Atlas and Wy slowly getting closer was written really well. But then it completely stalls after Wys injury and is never really resolved. They go from banging and hating each other, to sort of accepting they like each other, then Atlas out of the blue tells Wy he loves him, when we haven't gotten any of his POV that his feelings have even changed, Wy never really says it back and then that's the end. Not even a discussion that they're a real couple. This is meant to be a romance!
- The epilogue. A typical epilogue should at least give you some hope for the future. This one is set like a few weeks later and literally nothing has changed. The relationship is still up in the air. Wy is still injured and we have no indication if he'll be able to play again. At the start they both wanted to go pro - no mentions of this. Joseph is still an asshole and Elissa is stuck with him. The end?
This book didn't feel finished. Not by a long shot. So many issues weren't resolved and to be honest we didn't even get a clear discussion of what the relationship between the main characters was going to be.
My issues:
- Joseph. The man is straight up abusive to his son the entire book. Instead of either having him have some character growth or better yet, having the main characters leave him, we're given a half hearted comparison with Wys dad. Wys dad shows up at the end and is worse than Joseph, so we are just meant to accept that Joseph isn't that bad? Honestly, the whole relationship with Wys mum didn't make sense, because she is the sweetest, most caring person and I just don't believe she would stick around after watching how he treats both their kids
- Wys dad showing up. This just seemed like a random bit of drama thrown in to try to make Joseph seem better. It didn't make any sense with the rest of the story and could have been cut in favour of resolving some loose ends
- Wys injury. You can't heal mental health issues with a t shirt. When he gets injured, he clearly starts to suffer from depression and lashes out and pushes people away. But magically the team signs a t shirt and says he's a part of the team and then he's fine? It just lacked depth and this could have been a great moment for some character growth for Wy where he learns to address his demons rather than masking them with sport
- The relationship progression. Atlas and Wy slowly getting closer was written really well. But then it completely stalls after Wys injury and is never really resolved. They go from banging and hating each other, to sort of accepting they like each other, then Atlas out of the blue tells Wy he loves him, when we haven't gotten any of his POV that his feelings have even changed, Wy never really says it back and then that's the end. Not even a discussion that they're a real couple. This is meant to be a romance!
- The epilogue. A typical epilogue should at least give you some hope for the future. This one is set like a few weeks later and literally nothing has changed. The relationship is still up in the air. Wy is still injured and we have no indication if he'll be able to play again. At the start they both wanted to go pro - no mentions of this. Joseph is still an asshole and Elissa is stuck with him. The end?
December 20, 2023
3.5* It was ok but there were some bits I did not enjoy that much. One of them being Joseph - not sure he redeemed himself. The guys were pretty good together though and I will read the next book.
January 19, 2025
story of Atlas and Wystan
This is a rival teammates to more college romance, featuring Atlas Frosteson and Wystan Finch, and is book one in the NGU Polar Storms series.
From the very start, these two clashed. Their parents are dating, Wystan and his mum move in with Atlas and his dad, then Wy gets the captain position on the hockey team instead of Atlas, and if things can’t get worse, Atla’s dad is all about how awesome Wy is while putting his own son down.
Atlas is not a happy camper either Wy but for all their fighting, there is a primal attraction between them. It doesn’t take long for that attraction to turn psychical. They are all over each other, either wrestling, fighting or ripping each other’s clothes off. But as the story progresses the feelings and care come out and by the end, these two are completely gone for each other. Yay!
Alta’s dad seemed like an a-hole at the beginning but he does redeem himself, which made me happy because both these two guys needed that dad support.
I’d be interested to read future books in this series. I was shipping other characters all the way through this book.
I liked the narration too. I’ve only listened to one book by this narrator before, they did a great job.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM college romance
Rival teammates
Kinda stepbrothers
Ex figure skater
Calls him Birdy
Flirting
Hate & locker room spice
Can’t stay away
Dirty talk
Hurt / Comfort
Catching feelings
HEA
This is a rival teammates to more college romance, featuring Atlas Frosteson and Wystan Finch, and is book one in the NGU Polar Storms series.
From the very start, these two clashed. Their parents are dating, Wystan and his mum move in with Atlas and his dad, then Wy gets the captain position on the hockey team instead of Atlas, and if things can’t get worse, Atla’s dad is all about how awesome Wy is while putting his own son down.
Atlas is not a happy camper either Wy but for all their fighting, there is a primal attraction between them. It doesn’t take long for that attraction to turn psychical. They are all over each other, either wrestling, fighting or ripping each other’s clothes off. But as the story progresses the feelings and care come out and by the end, these two are completely gone for each other. Yay!
Alta’s dad seemed like an a-hole at the beginning but he does redeem himself, which made me happy because both these two guys needed that dad support.
I’d be interested to read future books in this series. I was shipping other characters all the way through this book.
I liked the narration too. I’ve only listened to one book by this narrator before, they did a great job.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM college romance
Rival teammates
Kinda stepbrothers
Ex figure skater
Calls him Birdy
Flirting
Hate & locker room spice
Can’t stay away
Dirty talk
Hurt / Comfort
Catching feelings
HEA
dnf
February 7, 2025I love a good rivals to lovers but I just can’t get into this. Their petty name calling and interactions is giving more high school than college. Which is a shame because I usually enjoy this duo’s writing
February 24, 2025
I got exactly what I asked for from this book! Trashy drama lol
I disliked Atlas for about 50% of the book, which is unfortunate seeing as he is one of the main characters. Wystan also took a little time to grow on me, but eventually I got over it.
I disliked Atlas for about 50% of the book, which is unfortunate seeing as he is one of the main characters. Wystan also took a little time to grow on me, but eventually I got over it.
February 26, 2024
Wystan and Atlas were fire! I really liked the pace of this one, from Hate F***ing to the sweeter romance that ended up developing.
February 11, 2024
I was going to return this book on page 2. And several times throughout. The guts of the story was good, but the toxicity of the people was too much for me - what sort of coach to elite athletes singles people out as 'you're the best player' etc. What sort of father does the same? Far too many sadly. The 2 MC's had their issues and they were valid, but add in the BS of some of the adults in their lives and I'm surprised they didnt have more issues. I know it is a story, and perhaps my mind wasn't in the game (so to speak), but if reactions were the authors aim then they successfully got mine. But I've read better hockey books to be honest
January 19, 2024
i was mad the whole 50% of the book. i was mad at basically, EVERYTHING. the characters, the situation, the setup.. and i felt like atlas doesn’t even get his closure apart from his dad (?):
1. him with hoffman
2. the way he felt betrayed at his teammates for not choosing him as the captain
3. joseph SUDDENLY being protective over atlas
and so on.. idek. it wasn’t my cup of tea.
1. him with hoffman
2. the way he felt betrayed at his teammates for not choosing him as the captain
3. joseph SUDDENLY being protective over atlas
and so on.. idek. it wasn’t my cup of tea.
December 30, 2023
3/5 stars
February 29, 2024
Relationship-wise, this one doesn't start off strong for me, but it definitely improves as it goes on. By the end, I was all over both guys. I think my main issue with the beginning is the dynamic between the two guys; Atlas hates Wystan, until he almost immediately doesn't, yet he keeps being an angry bitch; Wystan wants to fuck with Atlas because he's pissed that he hates him (or something?), so he doesn't give up the Captain position even though he knows it would be the right thing to do. IDK. I wasn't too into them at the start. But they grew on me. Another thing to mention is that this book gets a little melodramatic: you think it's bad when Atlas but then Wystan one-ups him by . One of these things would have been fine but the chances of both happening to two different guys on the same team, a few days apart, are not very high. And the dads in this book LOL. I don't even know what to say about Atlas' dad. No, thanks. What a dick. I LOL'd when , hahahaha. Asshole. Oh ... and what happens to Hoffman?? Same as with the injuries, he's also a total plot device :D He shows up, sows chaos, and is never seen again.
Also, I hate the name 'Atlas' - it's terrible, guys. And the nicknames, whaaaaatttttt ... :D I cringed every time Wystan called Atlas 'At Last'. NO. Wystan is almost as bad - what the heck kind of name is this? I kept thinking his name was 'Wystad' and was calling him 'Wasted' in my head. Just ... very distracting names.
Also, I hate the name 'Atlas' - it's terrible, guys. And the nicknames, whaaaaatttttt ... :D I cringed every time Wystan called Atlas 'At Last'. NO. Wystan is almost as bad - what the heck kind of name is this? I kept thinking his name was 'Wystad' and was calling him 'Wasted' in my head. Just ... very distracting names.
January 18, 2024
“We’re together. He’s my Birdy.”
Atlas & Wystan
My World & Birdy
Frost Son & Wy
Ugh this one was just -chefs kiss-
There was everything inside this book!
The downside.. I wanted more!
Atlas & Wystan HATE each other with a passion but what happens when that hate turns into something else, something unexpected.
This book has a lot of facets to it and it covered every spot great. I was drawn in from the start and it did not let me go until the end, this was a one sitting read.
Who doesn't love a good daddy issues book, I know I do.
The hard thing to swallow in this book was Joseph's behavior. I was so angry whenever he appeared and I just couldn't help rolling my eyes at anything he said.
What Atlas goes through is rough but it shines the light on the athlete/parent relationships and couldn't be more correct in certain ways. The way the words flew off the page to me was like a direct hit to my chest. There was just no love there even though it was claimed to be.
The shining light in all of this is Wystan for sure.
Atlas & Wystan's story definitely hits a lot of things but each of their POVs gives you the glimpse that you need to understand each one.
Yes there is spice and phew is there degradation but it doesn't take away from the story it adds to their dynamic and makes it that much better cause everyone knows the line between hate & love is razor thin.
This book is a first for me from these authors, I can't wait to see if we get more from this world. I am curious on some particular players and definitely need their story.
Atlas & Wystan
My World & Birdy
Frost Son & Wy
Ugh this one was just -chefs kiss-
There was everything inside this book!
The downside.. I wanted more!
Atlas & Wystan HATE each other with a passion but what happens when that hate turns into something else, something unexpected.
This book has a lot of facets to it and it covered every spot great. I was drawn in from the start and it did not let me go until the end, this was a one sitting read.
Who doesn't love a good daddy issues book, I know I do.
The hard thing to swallow in this book was Joseph's behavior. I was so angry whenever he appeared and I just couldn't help rolling my eyes at anything he said.
What Atlas goes through is rough but it shines the light on the athlete/parent relationships and couldn't be more correct in certain ways. The way the words flew off the page to me was like a direct hit to my chest. There was just no love there even though it was claimed to be.
The shining light in all of this is Wystan for sure.
Atlas & Wystan's story definitely hits a lot of things but each of their POVs gives you the glimpse that you need to understand each one.
Yes there is spice and phew is there degradation but it doesn't take away from the story it adds to their dynamic and makes it that much better cause everyone knows the line between hate & love is razor thin.
This book is a first for me from these authors, I can't wait to see if we get more from this world. I am curious on some particular players and definitely need their story.
March 10, 2025
Admittedly, I started off a little frustrated with this book on Atlas' behalf. Namely the way his father treated him. Suddenly this new guy, Wystan, comes in and takes the roll of captain that Atlas has worked so hard for and deserved. And not only had most of the team - aka Atlas' friends - voted in favor of Wystan, but his dad is suddenly calling Wystan "Superstar." As well as saying he's the star player.
Not only does Atlas have to deal with Wystan on the ice, but Wystan and his mom are moving into their home. His dad and Wystan's mom dating. It is safe to say Atlas isn't a fan of Wystan. Not in any sense of the word. Hates him for taking the captain position and maybe even more for taking the praise he has never gotten from his father, instead getting constant criticism and lectures.
Wystan on the other hand doesn't really hate Atlas. But he loves to get on his nerves. Loves to get under his skin. Even so, he sees a new side of Atlas, and feels for him when he overhears a conversation between him and his father. This also leads to ✨things✨ happening between the two when Wystan follows Atlas to his room...
This doesn't automatically fix things between the two. Just adds another layer of tension. But things slowly begin to change for Atlas and Wystan. Hate sex turns to something else entirely. Among other things.
I will say, Atlas' dad honestly redeemed himself. Somewhat. Being willing to change, plus a particular scene I won't go into too much because it could be considered a spoiler. All in all, his father is willing to change his ways.
Not only does Atlas have to deal with Wystan on the ice, but Wystan and his mom are moving into their home. His dad and Wystan's mom dating. It is safe to say Atlas isn't a fan of Wystan. Not in any sense of the word. Hates him for taking the captain position and maybe even more for taking the praise he has never gotten from his father, instead getting constant criticism and lectures.
Wystan on the other hand doesn't really hate Atlas. But he loves to get on his nerves. Loves to get under his skin. Even so, he sees a new side of Atlas, and feels for him when he overhears a conversation between him and his father. This also leads to ✨things✨ happening between the two when Wystan follows Atlas to his room...
This doesn't automatically fix things between the two. Just adds another layer of tension. But things slowly begin to change for Atlas and Wystan. Hate sex turns to something else entirely. Among other things.
I will say, Atlas' dad honestly redeemed himself. Somewhat. Being willing to change, plus a particular scene I won't go into too much because it could be considered a spoiler. All in all, his father is willing to change his ways.
January 4, 2024
Atlas thought he was headed into what he thought would be a great season of college hockey. He has worked hard to get where he is and he is a vote away from team captain. That is until Wystan arrived shortly before that and has everyone charmed by his personality and his skills on the ice. Atlas’s captaincy is suddenly gone and to make matters worse? Wystan and his mom are moving in with him since Wystan’s mom is dating his dad. Let’s just say Atlas is not having a good time. Not when his own dad seems to prefer Wystan over him. And the cherry on top? As much as Atlas can’t stand Wystan, he is still attracted to him. Wystan can’t understand exactly what Atlas’s deal is with him. Since the moment he arrived it’s been hostile. And things don’t seem to be getting much better. Well, at least until they put in all their anger and frustration into hooking up. Things only just get complicated from there. Especially when things slowly shift between them. But more problems arise as the two of them try and work together on this team and figure out what is between them. I really loved this story! I couldn’t put it down. Atlas and Wystan had such an enemies-to-lovers dynamic that grew into so much more as the story went on. They ended up balancing out one another very well and supported each other through all the ups and downs. Really great story! And I hope there will be more coming in this series!
December 12, 2023
Let me start by saying I'm not a sports fan. I don't know anything about hockey and ice skating. However, all those things didn't prevent me from enjoying this book a lot!
This story features enemies-to-lovers and you can really feel the hate dripping from the pages. That is to say, Atlas' hatred for Wyston. For his part, Wyston gives as good as he gets, but he doesn't really hate Atlas. I felt really connected to both main characters, could feel their emotions and wanted to keep on reading.
The pacing of this book is really good, making me want to keep on reading, even though there isn't that much going on. There is some suspense and action, but this is primarily a sports romance book.
At the end of the story, Wyston and Atlas get their very own HFN/HEA. I did have one question that hasn't been answered by the end, which I think is a shame.
Of course, a story situated in New Gothenburg wouldn't be complete without some familiar faces from Ki Brightly and M.D. Gregory's other books. Don't worry, this is a complete stand alone and you don't have to have read anything else from these authors.
Overall, a really good book to read, even if you don't like sports!
This story features enemies-to-lovers and you can really feel the hate dripping from the pages. That is to say, Atlas' hatred for Wyston. For his part, Wyston gives as good as he gets, but he doesn't really hate Atlas. I felt really connected to both main characters, could feel their emotions and wanted to keep on reading.
The pacing of this book is really good, making me want to keep on reading, even though there isn't that much going on. There is some suspense and action, but this is primarily a sports romance book.
At the end of the story, Wyston and Atlas get their very own HFN/HEA. I did have one question that hasn't been answered by the end, which I think is a shame.
Of course, a story situated in New Gothenburg wouldn't be complete without some familiar faces from Ki Brightly and M.D. Gregory's other books. Don't worry, this is a complete stand alone and you don't have to have read anything else from these authors.
Overall, a really good book to read, even if you don't like sports!
December 14, 2023
Enemies to lovers
College hockey
Set in the New Gothenburg world
Sort of stepbrothers
Well with only one more exam left that's not till next week I actually have some breathing room and that's translated to me not leaving my bed today. The burn out always hits the hardest right before the holiday break 😂
So while I was in my bed goblin era today I read this book without really coming up for air. And yesss omg Ki Brightly and MD Gregory are entering the hockey romance world! Look enemies to lovers isn't really my thing but by page 100 I couldn't help but love these two. There were some hard times in this book, I felt so bad for Wystan at times (and Atlas for that matter), but the way they tried to protect and be there for each other even though neither really knew how to be sweet killed me.
Each had these moments of softness throughout the book that hinted at the deeper feelings they had through it all. The little interactions made me ok with the angst of the enemies to lovers. I actually didn't mind it. And I liked how sweet Wystan's mom was to Atlas, it was clear he needed it.
College hockey
Set in the New Gothenburg world
Sort of stepbrothers
Well with only one more exam left that's not till next week I actually have some breathing room and that's translated to me not leaving my bed today. The burn out always hits the hardest right before the holiday break 😂
So while I was in my bed goblin era today I read this book without really coming up for air. And yesss omg Ki Brightly and MD Gregory are entering the hockey romance world! Look enemies to lovers isn't really my thing but by page 100 I couldn't help but love these two. There were some hard times in this book, I felt so bad for Wystan at times (and Atlas for that matter), but the way they tried to protect and be there for each other even though neither really knew how to be sweet killed me.
Each had these moments of softness throughout the book that hinted at the deeper feelings they had through it all. The little interactions made me ok with the angst of the enemies to lovers. I actually didn't mind it. And I liked how sweet Wystan's mom was to Atlas, it was clear he needed it.
December 24, 2023
I was really excited to see this new hockey series set in New Gothenburg by Ki Brightly and M.D. Gregory. Anyone who knows me knows that I adore anything these two write especially set in the New Gothenburg universe. This one was no exception.
Wystan Finch and Atlas Frosteson are not only rivals on the same team, but their parents are in a relationship and have recently moved in together. I absolutely adored Atlas’ nickname for Wystan (Birdy) though it did not start out sweet at all. Atlas was so angry and bitter at the beginning of the story that it was hard to like him. However, once he started to have feelings for Wystan and the anger was dialed down, he was really likable. Atlas’ dad was a jerk and I was so happy when Wystan called him out on it. However, I am still not convinced that he truly loves Elissa (Wystan’s mom) more than hockey. I hope for her case that she does because she is a very sweet woman.
As usual, I loved all of the cameos we got from some of our favorite New Gothenburg friends and I am looking forward to more stories from the hockey team. So many interesting characters. This was such an enjoyable read!
I received an ARC for my honest review
Wystan Finch and Atlas Frosteson are not only rivals on the same team, but their parents are in a relationship and have recently moved in together. I absolutely adored Atlas’ nickname for Wystan (Birdy) though it did not start out sweet at all. Atlas was so angry and bitter at the beginning of the story that it was hard to like him. However, once he started to have feelings for Wystan and the anger was dialed down, he was really likable. Atlas’ dad was a jerk and I was so happy when Wystan called him out on it. However, I am still not convinced that he truly loves Elissa (Wystan’s mom) more than hockey. I hope for her case that she does because she is a very sweet woman.
As usual, I loved all of the cameos we got from some of our favorite New Gothenburg friends and I am looking forward to more stories from the hockey team. So many interesting characters. This was such an enjoyable read!
I received an ARC for my honest review
December 14, 2023
4.5/5
Puck Around and Find Out is an enemies-to-lovers story about Wystan, a figure skater turned hockey player, and Atlas, a hockey player who wants nothing more than to be captain and make his dad proud. Both characters are well-developed, with depth and emotion.
The story flows well, drawing the reader in. The two MCs start off being able to barely tolerate each other, which is only compounded by the fact that their parents are engaged. I love the push and pull as they learn to trust and depend on one another, and I think it’s great that Wystan sees behind the walls Atlas has built. I loved that Wystan stands up for Atlas with his dad, and Atlas refuses to let Wystan push him away. I wish we had found out what happened with Atlas’s dad. But not knowing doesn’t detract from the story.
As always, the authors have thrown in little mentions of other New Gothenburg characters, which is fun to read. This book itself is the beginning of another sub-series in the bigger universe, and I’m eager to read about more of the Polar Storms players.
Puck Around and Find Out is an enemies-to-lovers story about Wystan, a figure skater turned hockey player, and Atlas, a hockey player who wants nothing more than to be captain and make his dad proud. Both characters are well-developed, with depth and emotion.
The story flows well, drawing the reader in. The two MCs start off being able to barely tolerate each other, which is only compounded by the fact that their parents are engaged. I love the push and pull as they learn to trust and depend on one another, and I think it’s great that Wystan sees behind the walls Atlas has built. I loved that Wystan stands up for Atlas with his dad, and Atlas refuses to let Wystan push him away. I wish we had found out what happened with Atlas’s dad. But not knowing doesn’t detract from the story.
As always, the authors have thrown in little mentions of other New Gothenburg characters, which is fun to read. This book itself is the beginning of another sub-series in the bigger universe, and I’m eager to read about more of the Polar Storms players.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2023
This is a standalone set in the larger New Gothenburg world created by Ki Brightly and MD Gregory.
Atlas is the spoiled rich kid who still doesn't live up to his Dad's monumentally high expectations. He aims to get the Captain spot on his college's hockey team, and finally make his Dad proud for once.
Wystan is from a working-poor broken home and has lost interest in figure skating. He takes up hockey and is scouted by NGU to be their star player.
Wystan storms into Atlas' life turning everything upside down. Wy's mom quickly falls in love with Atlas' Dad, and they move in with the Frosteson's. Wy usurps the Captain spot, unintentionally, from Atlas.
With Wy always in Atlas' face, it is no surprise that the tension between them is high. And there is only a thin line between hate and hate...scoring.
Atlas is the spoiled rich kid who still doesn't live up to his Dad's monumentally high expectations. He aims to get the Captain spot on his college's hockey team, and finally make his Dad proud for once.
Wystan is from a working-poor broken home and has lost interest in figure skating. He takes up hockey and is scouted by NGU to be their star player.
Wystan storms into Atlas' life turning everything upside down. Wy's mom quickly falls in love with Atlas' Dad, and they move in with the Frosteson's. Wy usurps the Captain spot, unintentionally, from Atlas.
With Wy always in Atlas' face, it is no surprise that the tension between them is high. And there is only a thin line between hate and hate...scoring.
December 17, 2023
I enjoyed meeting Atlas and Wystan. The two young men each have their own demons to deal with as they are thrown together. Atlas hates Wystan from the very start. As the two navigate their way on the team they also must do the same at home.
It was nice to see the two men find their way and begin to grow. The trust that they build is slow and sweet. As the two figure things out they find that the one that they can rely on is each other. Both Atlas and Wystan are strong and smart they show maturity as they go through their journey. The authors have done a good job of bringing out the emotions in these characters. The story is fast paced and pulled me in right from the start. As always, I loved seeing how the authors include other characters from the New Gothenburg world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was nice to see the two men find their way and begin to grow. The trust that they build is slow and sweet. As the two figure things out they find that the one that they can rely on is each other. Both Atlas and Wystan are strong and smart they show maturity as they go through their journey. The authors have done a good job of bringing out the emotions in these characters. The story is fast paced and pulled me in right from the start. As always, I loved seeing how the authors include other characters from the New Gothenburg world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2024
Great story! I finished this one in a day, and it held my interest enough to want to finish it without taking too many breaks in between. Atlas hates Wystan for basically feeling like Wystan has taken everything from him -- his team, his home, the position of team captain, etc, and while Wystan doesn't really hate Atlas, he dislikes him enough to go out of his way to irritate him, especially with the way Atlas treats him.
Over time, they learn things about each other that bring them reluctantly closer, and a series of injuries, accidents, and emotional trauma seems to tip the balance and they find themselves relying on each other and admitting that the relationship has dramatically changed for the better.
Over time, they learn things about each other that bring them reluctantly closer, and a series of injuries, accidents, and emotional trauma seems to tip the balance and they find themselves relying on each other and admitting that the relationship has dramatically changed for the better.
February 6, 2024
I’m reviewing the audio edition.
This story grabbed me from the beginning. Two guys with problem dads thrown together when Wystan and his mom move in with Atlas and his dad. That isn’t bad enough but Wystan is now on the same hockey team as Atlas and competing. When Wystan is picked team captain the feelings only grow between these two. Being forced together does nothing to make things better. When an incident happens that upsets the status of both guys things start changing.
This is an entertaining story between two guys, the jealousy and pettiness that young emotions can cause so much misery. I enjoyed the competition and the awakening between them of what each other's lives were really like. I feel that the narration by Keval Shah was perfect for these characters.
This story grabbed me from the beginning. Two guys with problem dads thrown together when Wystan and his mom move in with Atlas and his dad. That isn’t bad enough but Wystan is now on the same hockey team as Atlas and competing. When Wystan is picked team captain the feelings only grow between these two. Being forced together does nothing to make things better. When an incident happens that upsets the status of both guys things start changing.
This is an entertaining story between two guys, the jealousy and pettiness that young emotions can cause so much misery. I enjoyed the competition and the awakening between them of what each other's lives were really like. I feel that the narration by Keval Shah was perfect for these characters.
December 24, 2023
This latest book by Meg and Ki combines a number of tropes, mostly enemies to lovers and stepbrothers getting together. Atlas and Wystan are interested young men and these two writers write them well as if they have gotten into the heads of boys this age with all the false bravado and internal conflict that are so common at this age. I like that the authors write characters that are never totally good or bad and how they show how people can change and grow. While sports romance isn’t really my thing I found myself captivated by the characters and the story.
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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