The Mistake

 Synopsis: John Logan, hockey player, has been enjoying college life to the full but is getting increasingly despondent about what life after graduation has in store for him. A chance encounter with freshman Grace, with whom he has an instant connection, seems like an ideal distraction until Logan handles a situation between them badly and Grace no longer wants anything to do with him.
“I love you, you stupid jackass!”
Thoughts:

• I was pleasantly surprised that the win-her-back part of the story wasn't overly drawn out or disturbingly stalkery - very refreshing!
• Great character exploration and growth for both Logan and Grace
• Positive masculinity through Logan and his friendships with his team mates, and how he bonded with his apparent rival for Grace's affections.
• When Logan realises he has been a selfish lover and that Grace didn't enjoy an encounter he does do some work to rectify this by his own initiative, I loved that.
• In terms of negatives, there is some perpetuating of myths about virginity and the hymen. I would have liked to see the concept of virginity and Grace's insecurity about this addressed in a more progressive and feminist manner.
• I did think a lot of Logan's angst about his family situation and post-university plans could have been solved by just talking to his brother and dad.
• A nice balance of plot, character development and smut. I enjoyed the pacing and writing.

TW:

discussions of alcoholism and addiction.