The Husband Game : An M/M Hockey Romance (Relationship Goals Book 1)

I am not a fan of the fake husband trope. And I really dislike the drunken Las Vegas marriage trope. But I decided to read this book because I remember Charlie from the previous series, and he was a memorable character. I am so happy I did. After reading many meh or disappointing MM romance novels recently, I found myself smiling at various moments throughout this story as the author showed me how the characters got to know each other and fell in love. Showed. Not merely told. There were so many romantic moments—so many gentle or subtle supportive moments—throughout the novel. The depiction of Charlie’s ongoing struggles with food seemed realistic. The author didn’t make the eating disorder magically go away just because Charlie found love. I have read several of B. Vaughn’s novels, including the Rules of the Game series. Before today I would have said her novels are okay or fine; I have enjoyed a few of the ones I’ve read enough to check out her new releases if I happen to see them, but I haven’t loved them enough to go out of my way to read her backlist or intentionally stay on top of her new releases. After today I’m going to follow her to make sure I catch her new releases. The Husband Game is the best romance this author has written—at least among the novels that I have read; and it is among the best romance novels I’ve read this year. (I read on average about 6 to 8 MM romance novels a week.) There was insta lust but no insta love, no stupid big misunderstanding, no…

Love Dustin’s perseverance. He has always wanted Charlie. But Charlie has been there to spar at every turn. Dustin liked to wind Charlie up if for nothing but to see the spark back in Charlie’s eyes. Love that they slowly learned to both trust one another. Loved that the hockey team welcomed Charlie and protected him like one of their own. The story was very good at depicting the internal struggles and war with the inner voice of someone battling an eating disorder. From personal I have to say it was very respectful and on target. Great story.

Another beginning to a great series I'm sure..if the other 4 books are like this 1st book ..when I write a review I don't like to give much away..I'll tell you it's well written..passionate, funny, sexy, sad and a hea...I'm glad I read the RELATIONSHIP SERIES 1st..that series introduced Charlie from this book..I don't remember if Dustin was mentioned but probably..if you can read the other series 1st..it tells a lot about Charlie and some other characters from the Relationship series are in this book..I can't wait to read book 2..get them you won't be disappointed if you like mm romance ..