catknit7's review
dark
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
I wasn’t sure at first if this was going to be for me, but the characters really hooked me in. I was never really sure where it was going, what the HEA would look like, but I always trusted the author would get there and they absolutely did. I’m excited for the next book in the series!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicidal thoughts, Alcoholism, Violence, Drug use, and Addiction
Moderate: Sexual assault
Minor: Homophobia
ginfizz's review
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Thank you to Netgalley and Carina Press for the ARC to review.
Game Misconduct is a standout rivals-to-lovers hockey romance. The highlight of the book is the character development of the two mcs. The way Mike and Danny grow and change is so beautiful to see. Their relationship is so hostile and mean at the start, but it's obvious that even when they're still "enemies," they make each other better and challenge each other in a really positive way. They both have that edge of desperation for connection, and if either of them had come to the other from a place of empathy and kindness, I doubt either of them would have been able to receive it; so really the antagonism of their interactions is the only way they could be open with each other.
The topics are heavy and it's always hard to see richly developed and sympathetic characters make bad choices, but the way it all comes together is all the more touching for how difficult the process is. Mind the trigger warnings and prepare for more than a little meanness, but it's ultimately such a gorgeous and powerful read.
Game Misconduct is a standout rivals-to-lovers hockey romance. The highlight of the book is the character development of the two mcs. The way Mike and Danny grow and change is so beautiful to see. Their relationship is so hostile and mean at the start, but it's obvious that even when they're still "enemies," they make each other better and challenge each other in a really positive way. They both have that edge of desperation for connection, and if either of them had come to the other from a place of empathy and kindness, I doubt either of them would have been able to receive it; so really the antagonism of their interactions is the only way they could be open with each other.
The topics are heavy and it's always hard to see richly developed and sympathetic characters make bad choices, but the way it all comes together is all the more touching for how difficult the process is. Mind the trigger warnings and prepare for more than a little meanness, but it's ultimately such a gorgeous and powerful read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Drug abuse, Alcoholism, and Sexual content
Moderate: Blood and Violence
Minor: Sexual assault
ravenanjell's review
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Addiction, and Drug abuse
Minor: Sexual assault
duckyreads's review
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Game Misconduct is a hockey romance, that delves into the more serious aspects of being a professional athlete. We follow Michael Sato, a defenseman that is trying to find his place in the NHL, and Daniel Garcia, a bruised veteran struggling to finish the season.
Since Mike's debut, they sparked a rivalry and fight every game. They unexpectedly run into each other and spark an unlikely partnership. Although they had a violent beginning in their relationship, I liked the moments that we see Danny and Mike visiting each other during the season, especially when they allowed themselves to have vulnerable conversations with each other.
I think the romance would've benefited from more of the conversations and interactions as Mike and Danny are getting to know each other excluding their sexual relationship. The mental health issues and alcohol addiction could've been handled more in-depth. I thought the formatting of the epilogue was nice.
Thank you to NetGalley and Carina Press for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Since Mike's debut, they sparked a rivalry and fight every game. They unexpectedly run into each other and spark an unlikely partnership. Although they had a violent beginning in their relationship, I liked the moments that we see Danny and Mike visiting each other during the season, especially when they allowed themselves to have vulnerable conversations with each other.
I think the romance would've benefited from more of the conversations and interactions as Mike and Danny are getting to know each other excluding their sexual relationship. The mental health issues and alcohol addiction could've been handled more in-depth. I thought the formatting of the epilogue was nice.
Thank you to NetGalley and Carina Press for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Sexual violence, Mental illness, Addiction, and Suicidal thoughts
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