Caught Off Guard

This is how you write an MC that's both down bad AND has a spine. Literally this!

MC 1 was an emotionally constipated mean grump to MC 2 for 99% of the book and when he finally unclenched enough to say his love declaration was asked... 'What the fuck is wrong with you?'

💀And MC 2 meant it too. Lol I was living for it. And it's not just that.

MC 2 is sooo into him from the jump but his spine is always in attendance and I loved that for him. Like sure, he liked him....really really liked him(in spite of everything) but he kept calling him out on his bullshit behavior.

Only 2 reasons why this wasn't a 5* read for me.

1. There wasn't enough angst. We didn't have two POVs but it was kinda clear why MC 1 was being standoffish. Though we don't get an explanation for his clenched so tight behavior, which IMO is a missed opportunity.

2. The love declaration is a bit random. Which is why I absolutely loved MC 2's reaction and solution to it. Like....he hardly knows this guy except for the fact that he huffs so much he'd give the big bad wolf a run for his money —oh...and that he takes it really well.

And, even more surprising, I loved the side plot. Imagine. Me. Hockey. And the side characters! Ollie really pulled off the put upon bestie caught in the middle really well.

Overall a very enjoyable read, honestly. Love an MC who lays down the law and means it.