Zach and Carter met as children and have been inseparable ever since. As they were about to set out on their respective careers as pro athletes they made a pact that no matter what they’d always be the other’s priority and would always spend their off-seasons together. And for years they had no trouble upholding the pact. But for Zach, who had been in love with Carter since they were kids, every year gets harder and harder. Especially standing by while Carter starts to fall for someone else. Zach is forced to step away to save his heart and their friendship but in the process leaves Carter confused and heartbroken. As Carter works to set things right between them again, he begins to realize his feelings toward Zach extend well beyond friendship.

I took a slight detour having to read a few other books but I was glad to finally return to the Chicago Thunder Hockey universe. I’d been curious about what was up with Zach and Carter from the little bits we got in the first two books. I love a good friends-to-lovers story and I thought this one was done well! The codependency was real with these two but they were soulmates for sure and I’m glad they finally figured things out. The early parts of this book were quite sad. My heart broke for Zach who was convinced his love for Carter was unrequited and having Carter be so oblivious to how Zach felt. I don’t blame Zach for pulling away as he did, at a certain point self-preservation needs to kick in. But it was still sad.

Things didn’t stay sad for too long, I loved that once Carter finally realized his true feelings, he was all in. The way he showed up for Zach when he needed him most and the way he cared for Zach was just perfect. I loved the hurt/comfort aspect of this one. I thought it was handled very well and felt realistic. And it gave them a bit of time to explore the new romantic aspect of their relationship. For all the angst and heartache at the start of the book, the later parts of the book more than make up for it. 

I also loved seeing all the other guys from the series. The way they supported and rooted for Zach and Carter was heartwarming. These guys are a great found family and the queer normative world Jodi Oliver has created is a refreshing break from reality. I loved all the Elliot moments, he’s by far my favorite (I’m a simp for a quirky goalie) and I love him more and more with each book. And I’m intrigued by the setup for Jackson and Hayden’s book. I’m already looking forward to returning to this universe in a few short months!