Defensive Zone: Chicago Thunder, Book 3

I truly loved Zach and Carters' story. Best friends since they were 6 years old. Zach has loved Carter since they were 10. Twenty years of watching Carter with other people has Zach pulling away in order to save his heart from breaking. Circumstances finally lead Carter to realize what was in front of him for all these years, and then tragedy strikes, and Zach is badly injured. This story is full of ups and downs, heartbreak, and joy. With a wonderful happy ever after for everyone. 5/5 stars

I loved this book. The unconventional romance (straight bff in love with gay bff) wasn't appealing at first. But the story of these two characters drew me in. Characters from other books in the series make a few appearances which was nice. My only issue is Zach and Carter weren't written that differently. When reading their dialogue, it was difficult to remember who was who as the book progressed. The only clear distinction was 1 played football and the other played hockey. I was constantly going back a few pages to figure out who was speaking but I kept reading. Story ends with all the feels. Highly recommend.

“He’s my entire world. My soulmate, in every way. It’s like for my entire life, I’ve been building this LEGO set, and I’ve always been missing one piece, but it’s always been there; right in front of me. I just wasn’t ready to see it.” Oh my boys. I love a friends to lovers trope and it hits even harder when it’s a childhood friends to lovers because the backstory is just more beautiful and in depth. Zach has been in love with his best friend for 20 years. Carter has been completely oblivious. These two were absolutely soulmates and made for each other. Waiting for Carter to catch up was absolutely heartbreaking at times but the moment Carter realized his feelings and how Zach felt, it was like Carter’s whole world opened up. The pining between the two of them, the exploration and love morphing from a friendship type love to an ‘in love’ love.. it was so beautiful to watch as it unfolded. The spice was so good and you can really feel the chemistry. I loved how there were no awkward feelings or moments. Zach and Carter just went with it and fell into a really beautiful relationship. Carter was there for all of Zach’s hard moments and Zach was there when Carter was feeling guilty for the past. I just loved these two so much. What you’re getting: Childhood best friends to lovers Unrequited love Co-dependency Bi awakening Found family Hockey player MC Football player MC Injury rep HEA Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️