Lucas Hopkins
I’ve given everything to hockey — skipped college, left friends behind, all for a shot at the pros and a spot next to my brother. The contract is within reach. No distractions. Then the PR team announces a shirtless calendar shoot to drum up buzz. I expect awkward poses and fake smiles. Instead, I find him. Ezra Turner, all broody eyes and soft lips, moves behind the camera like poetry. His rare smile hits me harder than any check on the ice. I’ve never been attracted to guys. That’s my brother’s story, not mine. But maybe this isn’t about labels. Perhaps it’s about him. About us.
Ezra Turner
I’ve learned to keep my heart locked tight. A crumbling relationship and years of scars have taught me that lesson well. Then Lucas Hopkins barrels into my life — all cocky charm and surprising tenderness. He wants to protect me, but it’s his own heart on the line. I see it every time he looks at me. He’s fighting something raw and honest. And I don’t know if I’m brave enough to fall for someone who’s still questioning. But maybe this kind of love is worth taking a chance on.
The latest book in the multi-author Games We Play hockey series (season two) has ties to the Desert Ice Hockey series and takes readers on an emotional journey, featuring compelling characters and an engaging storyline. This story centers around Ezra, an up-and-coming photographer grappling with family issues and the burden of an abusive relationship, and Lucas, a hockey player on a journey of self-discovery as he embraces his bisexuality.
The story addresses the profound pain inflicted by family dynamics and romantic entanglements. Ezra’s struggle with his family’s rejection and Lucas’s battle with societal norms illustrate how external pressures can influence one’s identity and emotional well-being. The relationship between these characters’ trials not only highlights their individual challenges but also reflects the broader theme of acceptance in the face of adversity.
Despite the heavy topics addressed, the book skillfully incorporates light-hearted humor, providing moments of relief amidst the tension. Readers will enjoy the dynamic between Ezra and Lucas, whose growing relationship provides mutual healing. Their bond, enriched by shared experiences, delivers the heartfelt ‘happy-ever-after’ that fans of the Desert Ice Hockey series have come to cherish.
With a masterful blend of emotional depth and sports culture, this book presents story arcs that resonate with many. Stepping into the lives of Ezra and Lucas promises a compelling and rewarding experience.
About The Author
Christie Gordon started writing gay and MM romance after accidentally finding Yaoi fanfiction and falling in love with it. I’ve always had stories in my head and enjoyed writing, so I decided to try my hand at the genre and took up fiction writing classes at a local community college.
I published my first MM romance book with eXtasy back in 2009. I always follow my muses wherever they take me, writing a mixture of paranormal, historical, and contemporary romances. I enjoy writing about men discovering themselves, overcoming obstacles, and finding love in the process, along with a happy ending.
My day job is in the high-tech industry, and I hold a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration. I currently live in the Phoenix, Arizona, metro area, but I have also lived in the Bay Area of California and grew up in Minnesota. When I’m not writing, I watch boys’ love dramas or create digital artwork. I’m also a mother of two young adult sons, whose antics keep me on my toes. My one-eyed rescue pug is always by my side, snoring the day away.
Visit her website for a complete list of her books.
See my other reviews of Christie Gordon Books
Desert Football Series
Hidden Plays Book 1
Quarterback Drill Book 2
Desert Ice Hockey Series
Icing The Play Book 6
Skating to Him Book 5
Spinning to the Goal Book 4
Ice Rivals Book 3
Crossing Lines Book 2
Stick By Me Book 1
Rock U Series
More Than a Spark Book 6
Protect My Heart Book 5
The Swarm Series
Not Alone Book 1
Other Books
The Haunting Crush
Find Me in July
