
Tough Guy by Rachel Reid is a heartfelt story about NHL defenseman Ryan Price who is struggling with anxiety and self-doubt in his hockey career. When he reconnects with his high school crush, Fabian Salah, an aspiring musician, their unique and supportive relationship blossoms. The book beautifully explores themes of mental health, acceptance, and self-discovery, with a writing style that is intimate, empowering, and sensitively handles difficult topics such as sexual dysfunctions and anxiety disorders.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of anxiety disorders, mental health challenges, sexual dysfunction, and the stigma surrounding masculinity in sports.
Has Romance?
The book features a strong romantic element between the two main characters, making romance a central focus of the plot.
From The Publisher:
"This is a sweet, satisfying romance." - Publishers Weekly , starred review
They have nothing in common-so why does Ryan feel most like himself whenever he's with Fabian?
Pro hockey star Ryan Price may be an enforcer, but off the ice he struggles with anxiety. Recently traded to the Toronto Guardians, he's determined to make a fresh start in the city's dynamic LGBTQ Village. The last thing he expects to stumble upon in his new neighborhood is a blast from his past in the fabulous form of Fabian Salah.
Aspiring musician Fabian loathes hockey.
But that doesn't stop him from being attracted to a certain burly, ginger-bearded defenseman. He hasn't forgotten the kiss they almost shared back in high school, and it's clear the chemistry between them has only intensified.
Fabian is more than happy to be Ryan's guide to the gay scene in Toronto.
Between dance clubs and art exhibits-and the most amazing sex-Ryan's starting to feel something he hasn't experienced in a long time: joy. But playing the role of the heavy on the ice has taken its toll on his body and mind, and a future with Fabian may mean hanging up his skates for good.
USA TODAY bestselling author Rachel Reid
Game Changers
Book 1: Game Changer
Book 2: Heated Rivalry
Book 3: Tough Guy
Book 4: Common Goal
Book 5: Role Model
Book 6: The Long Game
Ratings (8)
Incredible (2) | |
Loved It (3) | |
Liked It (2) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (22):
Read It (10) | |
Want To Read (5) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (6) |
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