A review by jamieb_19
The Switched-Up Playbook by A.J. Kyler

funny inspiring lighthearted tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

"I’ve never managed to get you out of my system.”
“You don’t have to get me out of your system then. Not ever.”

I thought this was a fun debut college hockey romance. The book centers around Xander and Nicko, star hockey players from rival colleges who were drafted to the same NHL team. Thanks to an incident at the end of their freshman year, they’ve been enemies on and off the ice. But they’re tied together by the fact that Xander is best friends and roommates with Nicko’s twin brother, Nate. When Nate needs Nicko to step in and switch places with him temporarily, Xander finds himself having confusing new feelings for the guy he thinks is his best friend. But when he discovers the truth, he’s not sure what’s worse - thinking he's growing feelings for his best friend or actually growing feelings for the guy he’s never liked.

I hope my summary isn’t too confusing, I promise the book itself isn’t confusing! I enjoyed the dynamic between Xander, Nicko, and Nate. Twin shenanigans are always a good time. I’m not sure I totally bought the fact that Xander wouldn’t have been able to tell the difference when Nicko steps in as Nate, but I just went with it. I liked how it all played out, and I especially liked Nicko’s POV during that time. I felt bad for all he was going through with the recovery from his injury and the worries that created about his future. But I enjoyed seeing him get his confidence back.

Xander and Nicko were cute together when they finally gave in to their feelings. And they had plenty of sexual chemistry, too! They never lost the competitive edge and banter, though; it was kind of their “thing” and I’m glad they still challenged each other.

I really enjoyed the first part of the story. The middle was maybe a touch slow, but then I liked what happened at the end and how it all came full circle in the epilogue. It seems like we may get more from these characters, and I’d be happy to see what the future has in store for these guys!