Time to Shine

                          

Title: Time to Shine

Author: Rachel Reid

Published: Carina Press, September 26, 2023

Pages: 382

Genre: LGBTQ+ Hockey Romance

For Landon Stackhouse, being called up from the Calgary farm team is exciting and terrifying, even if, as the backup goalie, he rarely leaves the bench. A quiet loner by nature, Landon knows he gives off strong “don’t talk to me” vibes. The only player who doesn’t seem to notice is Calgary’s superstar young winger, Casey Hicks.

Casey treats Landon like an old friend, even though they’ve only interacted briefly in the past. He’s endlessly charming and completely laid-back in a way that Landon absolutely can’t relate to. They couldn’t have less in common, but Landon needs a place to live that’s not a hotel room and Casey has just bought a massive house—and hates being alone.

As roommates, Casey refuses to be defeated by Landon’s one-word answers. As friends, Landon comes to notice a few things about Casey, like his wide, easy smile and sparkling green-blue eyes. Spending the holidays together only intensifies their bromance-turned-romance. But as the new year approaches, the countdown to the end of Landon’s time in Calgary is on.

Holiday hockey!!! What more could I ask for? Oh yeah...making it queer! And one of these cuties is a goalie?! Be still my heart. 

Landon is getting his shot in the big leagues. He is also struggling with some pretty intense imposter syndrome. But when his stint with the Outlaws extends longer than expected, Casey Hicks invites him to stay in his huge house with him! Which is a relief for Casey because it really is too big for one person. 

Casey is a delight. He's this cute little bundle of sunshine! He loves hockey and sex and not being alone. He also really likes the stoic new goalie! Landon also really likes Casey. He can't figure out why, until he does. And I loved every minute of his journey.

This is a very cozy book. But do check your trigger warnings. Landon is dealing with the grief of losing a family member in the past. But it is mostly cozy and I'm looking forward to rereading it in the swing of the Christmas season.

Thank you, NetGalley and Carina Press for the ARC copy!

Ratings

Stars: 5/5

Spice: 3/5