Power Plays & Straight A's by Eden Finley is a heartwarming MM romance novel in the CU Hockey series that follows the budding relationship between Zach, a nerdy TA, and Foster, a jock hockey star. The story beautifully explores the dynamics of opposites attract trope, brother's best friend theme, and the challenges faced by the characters in balancing their personal ambitions with their growing feelings for each other. The writing style is engaging, filled with sweet moments, humorous interactions, and a perfect blend of romance and emotional depth that keeps readers hooked until the end.
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Has Romance?
The romance between the main characters is a central focus and highly developed.
From The Publisher:
FOSTER:
"Look out for Zach and don't hit on him."
My brother's request sounds easy enough. Keep an eye out for his best friend on campus and keep my hands to myself.
Easy.
Even if Zach is a quintessential nerd, who I've always thought was cute, I don't have the time to think with my … stick.
There's only one stick I should be focused on this year, and that's my hockey stick. My goal once I graduate is to get an NHL contract.
The last thing I need is a distraction. On or off the ice.
Only, keeping to the rules is harder than I thought it would be.
ZACH:
People confuse me.
And no one more than Foster Grant.
I've barely spoken two words to him in the whole time I've known him, but the second I step foot on campus, he's impossible to shake.
I can never anticipate his next move. And whenever we're together, my next move is a total mystery as well.
I want to give in to him, but that might mean coming clean about something I've never been bothered about before.
I'm still carrying my V-card.
And I think it's time to turn it in.
Ratings (22)
Incredible (1) | |
Loved It (7) | |
Liked It (11) | |
It Was OK (2) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (41):
Read It (22) | |
Want To Read (12) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (6) |
1 comment(s)
This was hilarious and sweet and adorkable. I mean;
“I have questions.” “What about?” There’s a pause. “Sex.” “And we’re done with the movie.” I reach over and close the laptop. “What questions?” “Umm … well, how do you, like, choose if you’re a top or a bottom?” “There’s a sorting hat. Like in Harry Potter. It wasn’t even placed on my head before it screamed, ‘Top!’ and then all the other tops welcomed me to their house.”
Finley, Eden ; James, Saxon . Power Plays & Straight A's (CU Hockey Book 1) (p. 192). Kindle Edition.
That had me in freaking hysterics. The romance was generally pretty good - there were a few misses with a lack of communication but there had to be a story somewhere. I liked that both characters were fairly comfortable with their sexuality and that all their friends and community were supportive of them. I even understood why Foster hadn't come out - although I liked that as soon as he took Zach home he was willing to speak up. I loved that his parents were so supportive and understanding - even though he wasn't the son they were expecting to be (well I want to say gay here but he's bi so I don't know however you put that into English). And even Zach's parents were pretty awesome.
I really liked Zach. I liked his willingness to put himself out there - even though he's not remotely comfortable with it. And Foster was so easy going and kind and they were very sweet together. I'm not sure I will continue with the series - I liked Jacob but I'm not sure I particularly care enough to read his story - but I may pick up Seth's book with the hopes of seeing more Zach/Foster. 4.5 stars.
What can you read after
Power Plays & Straight A's?
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