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Interference
25% of the author’s royalties for Interference will be donated to organizations assisting homeless and/or disabled veterans.
Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
Interference is a 140,000+ word slow burn hockey and military romance. Don’t worry – there’s no cheating!
CW: combat PTSD, dying/death of a parent (cancer), experiences and trauma associated with homelessness
Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
Interference is a 140,000+ word slow burn hockey and military romance. Don’t worry – there’s no cheating!
CW: combat PTSD, dying/death of a parent (cancer), experiences and trauma associated with homelessness
534 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2024
About the author
L.A. Witt
229 books2,612 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
July 18, 2024
*3.5* Why was this book so loooooong? I usually like stories that take the time to develop characters and mood, but this was too much. My library copy says it is 617 pages, but the Kindle version says it’s just over 532. Either way, this is a very long, drawn out story.
Slooooow burn
Hockey/former military
No cheating
Hurt/comfort
The best animal co-characters
I deeply appreciate that 25% of the author’s royalties from this book will be donated to organizations supporting homeless and disabled veterans. This cause is very close to my heart.
Slooooow burn
Hockey/former military
No cheating
Hurt/comfort
The best animal co-characters
I deeply appreciate that 25% of the author’s royalties from this book will be donated to organizations supporting homeless and disabled veterans. This cause is very close to my heart.
June 8, 2024
While I am 100% behind the author's committment to give money from sales of this book to help homeless vets, this novel could be cut by a third and lose nothing of value. I got to 45%, and am stopping because even skimming it has become insufferably repetitious.
May 23, 2024
Slow burn and beautiful
Another great hockey romance from L.A. Witt! I loved the premise of this story and the hard-fought HEA.
I was nervous and anxious the whole time for Wyatt, but the desperation he felt at the beginning of the story eventually morphed into a sense of relief and hope as the story went on. It was stressful and heartbreaking to read at times.
Anthony… oh Anthony. The stress he hand to endure on one front while attempting to be his true self - to a degree - was difficult.
I loved how their friendship and their attraction grew.
This was a terrific read that I was able to read in one evening. Witt’s books are addictive!
Another great hockey romance from L.A. Witt! I loved the premise of this story and the hard-fought HEA.
I was nervous and anxious the whole time for Wyatt, but the desperation he felt at the beginning of the story eventually morphed into a sense of relief and hope as the story went on. It was stressful and heartbreaking to read at times.
Anthony… oh Anthony. The stress he hand to endure on one front while attempting to be his true self - to a degree - was difficult.
I loved how their friendship and their attraction grew.
This was a terrific read that I was able to read in one evening. Witt’s books are addictive!
July 29, 2024
There’s a lot wrong with this book
Pros- The animals are sweet and their antics take up much of book
The sample was so promising I spent almost $10 on an unknown to me author as this one is not ku
Anthony was quite sweet
Wyatt was a decent guy
The hockey team seemed decent guys
I got through the book and finished it
Giant sigh- onto the cons-
This book is PREACHY AS FUCK
It’s relentlessly repetitive in its preaching about homeless vets, bad cops, and service dogs of which Anthony ‘has no idea’ about. -eyeroll-
So many typos and dropped words I got tired of flagging and reporting them- example-
A place to stay for ten. Days.
“It was just bad night.”
…so we they make us sit for another three just to calm down.
Because I was biased and thought he was kind of dick?
The inner monologuing is painful smh
We have Wyatt who throughout the entire story is never homeless ON PAGE. His homelessness is discussed constantly as is the fact that he’s a veteran- off the top of my head- five times his ‘stolen’ tent and belongings is mentioned. Anthony’s reactions to everything Wyatt tells him is ‘I had no idea’. C’mon this guy cannot be that blind to the world smh
We’re told Wyatt is a veteran, he’s lost a limb, has ptsd, has a service dog, Lily, is receiving some type of income from his service, has a loving family three hours away, has a brother and sister in law, father is dying from cancer, mother is his full time carer.
Wyatt lies to his parents and says he has a job but simply doesn’t want to tell them he’s homeless. This is by his admission wonderful parents and a mother who he knows needs help caring for his dying father.
How can he not afford a bus trip three hours away to help his family who clearly care about him immensely
Mc2 Anthony is stuck with his ex- his hockey team won’t allow them to break up because it will look bad for the team/sport/THE GAYS pleeeaasseeee WHAT IN THE EVER LOVING FUCK
This a team where almost every player is married or with a partner and we’re supposed to believe Anthony and Simon (the ex) are the ONLY ones who are not allowed to break up
Homophobic as all get out not to mention forcing the guy to remain in an abusive relationship that clearly affects his ability to play hockey.
The repetitive nature of this story-
Every single thing of note is repeated multiple times- eg, more than five times. EVERY SINGLE THING.
The reader is told multiple times about the struggles of homeless vets, the issues with service dogs is discussed in one paragraph then again a couple paragraphs later.
Wyatt’s ptsd is triggered multiple times in the exact same way using the same wording and phrases within the space of a page
This book could have been cut in half and it still would have been too long.
The ending- unrealistic as all get out. Anthony becomes friends with the ex who attempted to ruin his life and career? Why?
And Wyatt In his dress uniform at a charity event where
he’s suddenly gone from homeless to entrepreneur and saviour to homeless vets.
Pros- The animals are sweet and their antics take up much of book
The sample was so promising I spent almost $10 on an unknown to me author as this one is not ku
Anthony was quite sweet
Wyatt was a decent guy
The hockey team seemed decent guys
I got through the book and finished it
Giant sigh- onto the cons-
This book is PREACHY AS FUCK
It’s relentlessly repetitive in its preaching about homeless vets, bad cops, and service dogs of which Anthony ‘has no idea’ about. -eyeroll-
So many typos and dropped words I got tired of flagging and reporting them- example-
A place to stay for ten. Days.
“It was just bad night.”
…so we they make us sit for another three just to calm down.
Because I was biased and thought he was kind of dick?
The inner monologuing is painful smh
We have Wyatt who throughout the entire story is never homeless ON PAGE. His homelessness is discussed constantly as is the fact that he’s a veteran- off the top of my head- five times his ‘stolen’ tent and belongings is mentioned. Anthony’s reactions to everything Wyatt tells him is ‘I had no idea’. C’mon this guy cannot be that blind to the world smh
We’re told Wyatt is a veteran, he’s lost a limb, has ptsd, has a service dog, Lily, is receiving some type of income from his service, has a loving family three hours away, has a brother and sister in law, father is dying from cancer, mother is his full time carer.
Wyatt lies to his parents and says he has a job but simply doesn’t want to tell them he’s homeless. This is by his admission wonderful parents and a mother who he knows needs help caring for his dying father.
How can he not afford a bus trip three hours away to help his family who clearly care about him immensely
Mc2 Anthony is stuck with his ex- his hockey team won’t allow them to break up because it will look bad for the team/sport/THE GAYS pleeeaasseeee WHAT IN THE EVER LOVING FUCK
This a team where almost every player is married or with a partner and we’re supposed to believe Anthony and Simon (the ex) are the ONLY ones who are not allowed to break up
Homophobic as all get out not to mention forcing the guy to remain in an abusive relationship that clearly affects his ability to play hockey.
The repetitive nature of this story-
Every single thing of note is repeated multiple times- eg, more than five times. EVERY SINGLE THING.
The reader is told multiple times about the struggles of homeless vets, the issues with service dogs is discussed in one paragraph then again a couple paragraphs later.
Wyatt’s ptsd is triggered multiple times in the exact same way using the same wording and phrases within the space of a page
This book could have been cut in half and it still would have been too long.
The ending- unrealistic as all get out. Anthony becomes friends with the ex who attempted to ruin his life and career? Why?
And Wyatt In his dress uniform at a charity event where
he’s suddenly gone from homeless to entrepreneur and saviour to homeless vets.
October 31, 2024
(3.5/5) This was a long book with a sweet slow burn, heartbreaking backstories, and so much fluffiness (in the form of two chunky cats and a gorgeous service dog).
I really enjoyed this book. I liked that it was longer so I could get to know the characters (and their pets) really well. I enjoyed the ups and downs, the insecurities of the two characters and their really sweet romance.
And the best part of the whole thing is that the author donates a portion of the royalties to organisations that support homeless and disabled veterans. I love seeing that.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked that it was longer so I could get to know the characters (and their pets) really well. I enjoyed the ups and downs, the insecurities of the two characters and their really sweet romance.
“I do have a choice,” he said again, “and my choice is you. Hands down.”
And the best part of the whole thing is that the author donates a portion of the royalties to organisations that support homeless and disabled veterans. I love seeing that.
May 25, 2024
This book could have been at least 100 pages shorter and crispier, because the repeated bouts of guilt, insecurity and self-recrimination got tiresome after 350 pages!
But absolutely love the animals - Lily was amazing. And Jason...I mean Bear...I mean Bear-Jason. Eep!
But absolutely love the animals - Lily was amazing. And Jason...I mean Bear...I mean Bear-Jason. Eep!
May 29, 2024
Interference is standalone MM Contemporary Sports Romance. Slowburn, Hockey, Hurt Comfort.
2POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 534 pages, May 22, 2024.
I had a pause with this author for last winter but the this new title doesn't seem any better. It just drags on and on and it just ... isn't good these days. Way too slow for starters. I get bored. Ugh. I give up. They used to write well to my taste often if not always, but lately - just no. Too depressing and bleak.
2POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 534 pages, May 22, 2024.
I had a pause with this author for last winter but the this new title doesn't seem any better. It just drags on and on and it just ... isn't good these days. Way too slow for starters. I get bored. Ugh. I give up. They used to write well to my taste often if not always, but lately - just no. Too depressing and bleak.
June 3, 2024
I so want to love this book. I love the story, mind you, but it feels so winded most of the time… Both MC are wonderful, but parts of this story just drag, and where those strings lead is often uninteresting and not worth the endless buildup. 😔
May 28, 2024
(3,75 stars rated up) Anthony Austin is a hockey player for the Seattle Bobcats who is not only a proudly out player but also in a loving relationship with one of his teammates, Simon Carson. With a big house in Medina that they bought together and two huge Maine Coons as pets, Anthony and Simon's relationship appears picture perfect. However, they've been living a lie ever since Simon moved out of their house six months ago. They’re still pretending to be a happy couple, keeping their separation a secret from everyone while they try to work on fixing their relationship—or rather, while Anthony tries to convince Simon to work on their relationship.
Wyatt Miller is a disabled veteran suffering from PTSD who has been living on the streets with his service dog, a Doberman named Lucy. With Seattle's weather turning worse and a cold snap forecasted, and with most of their belongings stolen, Wyatt becomes desperate to find a warm place for Lucy to stay. This brings him to a veterinary clinic where he stumbles upon Anthony, who finds himself offering the desperate homeless man and his dog a spare room to stay in.
Wyatt and Lucy meeting Anthony was nothing short of serendipitous and brought tears to my eyes at the beginning of the story. Anthony offers Wyatt and Lucy a place to stay for a few days, and during that time, they slowly get to know each other better.
It was really hard reading about Anthony and Simon's toxic relationship. While their reasons for pretending to still be together were backed up with somewhat believable excuses, I still wanted Anthony to be out of that uncomfortable situation, as it made for a tense reading experience. I also didn’t understand why Anthony kept forcing something that was clearly not working anymore. His relationship with Simon seemed effectively over the moment Simon moved out of their house, and their interactions had completely soured after that point.
I also felt quite apprehensive about what would happen when Wyatt and Lucy had to return to the streets, Wyatt's situation was presented as having no other option but living on the street. However, when we found out that, in addition to his parents, who were struggling with the weight of his father's terminal cancer, Wyatt also had two brothers who seemed to be doing okay in life, I really didn’t understand Wyatt’s reasons for not going back home or asking his family for help. I can't pretend to know what goes on in the mind of a homeless person, and I realize that shame can play a big part in keeping it a secret from your own family, but I really struggled to understand Wyatt’s reasoning, especially since he seemed more willing to give up Lucy, who meant the absolute world to him, than ask his family for help.
While I had my issues with this story, I still found it to be quite a compelling read. Unlike my recent m/m romance reads, Anthony and Wyatt's story didn't make me lose interest almost immediately after the beginning. I also adored the addition of pets to the story. I believe this is a standalone story, but the author will be part of a multi-author minor league hockey series, so I will be sure to check out their story in that series as well.
Themes: dual POV, hockey player/homeless veteran, character with an amputation, PTSD, pets/service dog, NHL
Wyatt Miller is a disabled veteran suffering from PTSD who has been living on the streets with his service dog, a Doberman named Lucy. With Seattle's weather turning worse and a cold snap forecasted, and with most of their belongings stolen, Wyatt becomes desperate to find a warm place for Lucy to stay. This brings him to a veterinary clinic where he stumbles upon Anthony, who finds himself offering the desperate homeless man and his dog a spare room to stay in.
Wyatt and Lucy meeting Anthony was nothing short of serendipitous and brought tears to my eyes at the beginning of the story. Anthony offers Wyatt and Lucy a place to stay for a few days, and during that time, they slowly get to know each other better.
It was really hard reading about Anthony and Simon's toxic relationship. While their reasons for pretending to still be together were backed up with somewhat believable excuses, I still wanted Anthony to be out of that uncomfortable situation, as it made for a tense reading experience. I also didn’t understand why Anthony kept forcing something that was clearly not working anymore. His relationship with Simon seemed effectively over the moment Simon moved out of their house, and their interactions had completely soured after that point.
I also felt quite apprehensive about what would happen when Wyatt and Lucy had to return to the streets, Wyatt's situation was presented as having no other option but living on the street. However, when we found out that, in addition to his parents, who were struggling with the weight of his father's terminal cancer, Wyatt also had two brothers who seemed to be doing okay in life, I really didn’t understand Wyatt’s reasons for not going back home or asking his family for help. I can't pretend to know what goes on in the mind of a homeless person, and I realize that shame can play a big part in keeping it a secret from your own family, but I really struggled to understand Wyatt’s reasoning, especially since he seemed more willing to give up Lucy, who meant the absolute world to him, than ask his family for help.
While I had my issues with this story, I still found it to be quite a compelling read. Unlike my recent m/m romance reads, Anthony and Wyatt's story didn't make me lose interest almost immediately after the beginning. I also adored the addition of pets to the story. I believe this is a standalone story, but the author will be part of a multi-author minor league hockey series, so I will be sure to check out their story in that series as well.
Themes: dual POV, hockey player/homeless veteran, character with an amputation, PTSD, pets/service dog, NHL
May 28, 2024
Well-written story, 1 really nice and 1 mostly sympathetic character, and main coon fluffballs playing basically the role of the 3r star of the book... what's not to like?
Well, there is always something, obviously:)
The narration in places has a somewhat didactic feel, e.g. when dealing with the topics of service dogs and homelessness, and though I don't mind much as I'm interested in these things, I still can't shake the feeling it could be done better and incorporated into the story mory smoothly, so you don't have this strong feeling of "let's take a break for a bit of PC now" which pulls you out of the flow.
The plotline concerning Anthony's boyfriend doesn't make much sense, his behavior changes according to author's need and it's not consistent.
And the biggest peeve for me - the fairy tale story feel. Wyatt is too big Cinderella in distress here, and I would really appreciate him being less passive. He's basically just sitting at home waiting for Anthony without lifting a finger to improve his own situation. Yes, he has PTSD and amputated leg, and yes, Anthony has a lot of money, so all the things impossible for Wyatt on his limited VA pension are no big deal for him. And there's nothing wrong to accept a help freely offered when you need it.
Still, it would be nice to see Wyatt searching for a job, thinking about his options, spending his time in different way than just watching TV - even if jobs are scarce and options are limited, at least I want to be shown this instead of told in few short words, so he looks like an active participant in his own life and not just a passenger in a train driven by someone else. And this passivity is absolutely the worst when it regards his family, and it takes away a lot of my sympathy for him and makes me feel that Anthony could do a lot better.
May 23, 2024
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
I am not usually one for sports romances. Just not a sports fan. But Anthony and Wyatt just called my name. Wyatt is a disabled Army vet who lost his leg. Through the all too true nightmare of the VA and some plain bad luck, he has ended up homeless on the streets with his incredibly loved dog, Lily. Right away, when his entire concern was his dog, to the point he was willing to give her to a no kill shelter just to make sure she was okay in the harsh winter. Never mind that he’s freezing also. This is how Wyatt meets Anthony. Anthony, hockey player for the Seattle Bobcats, hears Wyatt begging a vet for Lily to have a warm place to stay. Anthony is so lovely and can’t stand the idea of someone struggling like that. “But if she shouldn’t be sleeping out there, then neither should you.” Anthony has Maine Coon cats, Bear and Moose, that he loves dearly so he knows what putting your pets first is like.
Anthony offers his spare room and Wyatt is incredibly grateful. Wyatt feels he has nothing to give, while Anthony is slowly becoming entranced with this battle-scarred, kind man. What throws a wrench into the works is Anthony’s ex-boyfriend and teammate, Simon. When Simon and Anthony got together they were given a lot of shit about it from their team managers and admin. Knowing that it would come to a bad end if they let anyone know they were no longer together, they’ve been playing the charade that everything is great. Simon is the one who left, wanting space and not wanting Anthony, so he moved to an apartment. Anthony stayed in their house. They are leading separate lives, except Simon has to pick Anthony up for practice and games so no one catches on, and when they are on the road they are still assigned the same room. It is incredibly difficult. Anthony has tried to make things work, but Simon doesn’t want to, and he also doesn’t want either of them to move on.
There is also the added specter of this unbelievably skanky tabloid reporter, Cole Tandy. Way back in the day my aunt was an avid National Enquirer reader and would pass them on to me. We would laugh at the ridiculous, skating-the-line of satire, in each magazine. Cole Tandy makes the reporters for the Enquirer look like Anderson Cooper. The entire team hates Tandy. “….he’d rather lick every teammate’s mouthguard than give Cole Tandy the time of day.” So there is always the fear that Tandy will find out what’s really going on.
They are sweet together and also funny. “There’s a café near here that I really like that doesn’t charge an…” Anthony is mortified by it, but Wyatt takes it in stride. “I’m assuming they don’t charge an arm and a leg?” This is a slow burn relationship. The don’t jump in to anything before they have gotten to know each other and I appreciated that. . I loved seeing how the two of them were working through all the baggage that they both have.
I’ll admit, for the life of me I couldn’t figure out why Anthony was ever with Simon. Anthony is kind, good-hearted, and caring. Simon, at least at this stage, is none of those things. I tried to be sympathetic to him because the club really did put a ton of pressure on these two, but his words and actions over and over made me want to slap him. When he gets a comeuppance for his assholery I wanted to cheer!
Hockey fans will appreciate that aspect more than me, and I still loved it! I would definitely recommend giving Anthony and Wyatt a chance.
I am not usually one for sports romances. Just not a sports fan. But Anthony and Wyatt just called my name. Wyatt is a disabled Army vet who lost his leg. Through the all too true nightmare of the VA and some plain bad luck, he has ended up homeless on the streets with his incredibly loved dog, Lily. Right away, when his entire concern was his dog, to the point he was willing to give her to a no kill shelter just to make sure she was okay in the harsh winter. Never mind that he’s freezing also. This is how Wyatt meets Anthony. Anthony, hockey player for the Seattle Bobcats, hears Wyatt begging a vet for Lily to have a warm place to stay. Anthony is so lovely and can’t stand the idea of someone struggling like that. “But if she shouldn’t be sleeping out there, then neither should you.” Anthony has Maine Coon cats, Bear and Moose, that he loves dearly so he knows what putting your pets first is like.
Anthony offers his spare room and Wyatt is incredibly grateful. Wyatt feels he has nothing to give, while Anthony is slowly becoming entranced with this battle-scarred, kind man. What throws a wrench into the works is Anthony’s ex-boyfriend and teammate, Simon. When Simon and Anthony got together they were given a lot of shit about it from their team managers and admin. Knowing that it would come to a bad end if they let anyone know they were no longer together, they’ve been playing the charade that everything is great. Simon is the one who left, wanting space and not wanting Anthony, so he moved to an apartment. Anthony stayed in their house. They are leading separate lives, except Simon has to pick Anthony up for practice and games so no one catches on, and when they are on the road they are still assigned the same room. It is incredibly difficult. Anthony has tried to make things work, but Simon doesn’t want to, and he also doesn’t want either of them to move on.
There is also the added specter of this unbelievably skanky tabloid reporter, Cole Tandy. Way back in the day my aunt was an avid National Enquirer reader and would pass them on to me. We would laugh at the ridiculous, skating-the-line of satire, in each magazine. Cole Tandy makes the reporters for the Enquirer look like Anderson Cooper. The entire team hates Tandy. “….he’d rather lick every teammate’s mouthguard than give Cole Tandy the time of day.” So there is always the fear that Tandy will find out what’s really going on.
They are sweet together and also funny. “There’s a café near here that I really like that doesn’t charge an…” Anthony is mortified by it, but Wyatt takes it in stride. “I’m assuming they don’t charge an arm and a leg?” This is a slow burn relationship. The don’t jump in to anything before they have gotten to know each other and I appreciated that. . I loved seeing how the two of them were working through all the baggage that they both have.
I’ll admit, for the life of me I couldn’t figure out why Anthony was ever with Simon. Anthony is kind, good-hearted, and caring. Simon, at least at this stage, is none of those things. I tried to be sympathetic to him because the club really did put a ton of pressure on these two, but his words and actions over and over made me want to slap him. When he gets a comeuppance for his assholery I wanted to cheer!
Hockey fans will appreciate that aspect more than me, and I still loved it! I would definitely recommend giving Anthony and Wyatt a chance.
June 1, 2024
3.5 stars
Hearing about Wyatt and Lily's time on the streets was SO heartbreaking. It also helped to shine a light on the very real issues a lot of our veterans are facing and how just showing a little kindness and decency can go a long way in helping those less fortunate feel more human again.
I'm not a cat person. But I LOVED Bear and Moose. Bear's questionable intelligence and Moose's haughty attitude had me laughing more than once. And then there's sweet, devoted Lily. She deserved all the spoiling she got.
I thought Wyatt and Anthony made a really good couple. Anthony's kind heart and generosity helped Wyatt get on his feet again, and Wyatt's attention and focus on Anthony's wellbeing showed Anthony what love was supposed to be like in a relationship.
Having said that, I do feel like the story was a bit too long. Once Wyatt was moved in, there really wasn't much angst or drama. My mind was coming up with all these potential scenarios like Wyatt and Lily having to go back to living on the streets while Anthony desperately tried to track them down again. Or Wyatt's homeless situation being discovered by the tabloids and used to somehow humiliate Anthony and/or discredit his relationship with Simon. But instead we basically got pages of their home life being described as Wyatt making breakfast and playing with the cats while Anthony was at hockey practice or a game. Or them watching hockey on tv and enjoying simple conversations when Anthony had time off. There were also so many repetitive thoughts going on about (1) how grateful Wyatt was for meeting Anthony and being given the opportunity to get off the streets, (2) Anthony wondering why he stayed in the relationship with Simon for so long because even though they just met, things with Wyatt were so much easier, and (3) Wyatt questioning what he could possibly contribute to a relationship with someone as wonderful as Anthony.
The whole drama with Simon and Anthony having to pretend to the outside world that they were still a happy couple (or risk one of them being traded to another team) seemed to go on for too long as well. They were both miserable and they seemed to have the same arguments over and over. It was no surprise to me how Simon found out about Anthony and Wyatt having a relationship. I suspected he was doing it all along. And Wyatt introducing Anthony as his boyfriend to his family wasn't exactly keeping things under wraps when Anthony was supposed to be in a committed relationship with Simon at the time.
I guess things just seemed too easy for Wyatt after Anthony brought him home. Anthony provided food and shelter, bought Wyatt clothes, a laptop and a new phone, replaced the stolen gear Wyatt and Lily used to survive on the streets, and even helped fund the charitable organization Wyatt eventually was involved with. And of course all of Anthony's teammates (with the exception of Simon) loved Wyatt and accepted him in their friend circle too. So yeah, stuff like that just made it drag a little when I was hoping for a bit more angst, but I did still enjoy it.
Hearing about Wyatt and Lily's time on the streets was SO heartbreaking. It also helped to shine a light on the very real issues a lot of our veterans are facing and how just showing a little kindness and decency can go a long way in helping those less fortunate feel more human again.
I'm not a cat person. But I LOVED Bear and Moose. Bear's questionable intelligence and Moose's haughty attitude had me laughing more than once. And then there's sweet, devoted Lily. She deserved all the spoiling she got.
I thought Wyatt and Anthony made a really good couple. Anthony's kind heart and generosity helped Wyatt get on his feet again, and Wyatt's attention and focus on Anthony's wellbeing showed Anthony what love was supposed to be like in a relationship.
Having said that, I do feel like the story was a bit too long. Once Wyatt was moved in, there really wasn't much angst or drama. My mind was coming up with all these potential scenarios like Wyatt and Lily having to go back to living on the streets while Anthony desperately tried to track them down again. Or Wyatt's homeless situation being discovered by the tabloids and used to somehow humiliate Anthony and/or discredit his relationship with Simon. But instead we basically got pages of their home life being described as Wyatt making breakfast and playing with the cats while Anthony was at hockey practice or a game. Or them watching hockey on tv and enjoying simple conversations when Anthony had time off. There were also so many repetitive thoughts going on about (1) how grateful Wyatt was for meeting Anthony and being given the opportunity to get off the streets, (2) Anthony wondering why he stayed in the relationship with Simon for so long because even though they just met, things with Wyatt were so much easier, and (3) Wyatt questioning what he could possibly contribute to a relationship with someone as wonderful as Anthony.
The whole drama with Simon and Anthony having to pretend to the outside world that they were still a happy couple (or risk one of them being traded to another team) seemed to go on for too long as well. They were both miserable and they seemed to have the same arguments over and over. It was no surprise to me how Simon found out about Anthony and Wyatt having a relationship. I suspected he was doing it all along. And Wyatt introducing Anthony as his boyfriend to his family wasn't exactly keeping things under wraps when Anthony was supposed to be in a committed relationship with Simon at the time.
I guess things just seemed too easy for Wyatt after Anthony brought him home. Anthony provided food and shelter, bought Wyatt clothes, a laptop and a new phone, replaced the stolen gear Wyatt and Lily used to survive on the streets, and even helped fund the charitable organization Wyatt eventually was involved with. And of course all of Anthony's teammates (with the exception of Simon) loved Wyatt and accepted him in their friend circle too. So yeah, stuff like that just made it drag a little when I was hoping for a bit more angst, but I did still enjoy it.
December 9, 2024
Enjoyable hockey player-unhomed vet, adorable service dog, awkward breakup with ex hurt-comfort romance. If only one MC’s motivations made sense…! But, the romance is lovely.
LA Witt deals well with thorny situations, and this is a great one. Out gay hockey player Anthony Austin is supposedly in a relationship with a teammate, but they’re under so much pressure to be the poster children for gays in a relationship in hockey that they haven’t told anyone they’re separated and struggling, and it’s taking a toll on Anthony’s game.
Veteran Wyatt Miller and his incredible service dog, Lily, are unhomed. Wyatt is begging a local vet clinic to keep Lily overnight/out of the freezing temperatures when the most unlikely person steps in to help—Anthony, who’s there with his two Maine coon cats.
Taking a stranger into his home is probably not wise, but Anthony decides he doesn’t care—this man’s devotion to his dog overcomes his doubts. And so begins a truly lovely romance, strangers to tentative friendship…but don’t worry, while there’s growing awareness on both sides, nothing at all happens until after Anthony and his boyfriend truly break up. Then all bets are off.
But meanwhile, these two getting to know each other—and each other’s pets! Holy moly the ADORABLE PETS!!!—this is a pet-lovers story. The cuteness is real. ANYWAY, ahem. They get to know and respect each other, despite their hugely disparate situations, forming the least likely yet somehow most likely relationship out of nowhere, and it is sweet, supportive, appreciative without any smarmy weirdness due to Anthony kinda rescuing Wyatt…it really feels healthy, though I feel weirdly like it shouldn’t? But they’re so respectful of each other and of boundaries that it worked for me. And once they finally gave in to the attraction... smokin' hot.
Anthony’s ex-to-be is a piece of work, gaslighting, avoiding, blaming everything on Anthony…but he somehow is just shy of caricature and made for a strong antagonist.
The only place the book falls down HARD is on Wyatt’s unhomed situation, because he’s got a loving, supportive family, including two brothers, who would have helped him at any time. Yes, his parents are going through a terrible time, and he didn’t want to burden them, but, his two brothers are fine and want to hear from him. I can understand pride getting in his way, but it was completely unbelievable that Wyatt would let Lily suffer, or that he’d give her up just because he couldn’t bear to admit what had happened to him. The way this man was characterized, just, no way. That was unbelievable. And that undercut the entire book.
It says a lot that I forgot to mention earlier that Wyatt is an amputee with a prosthetic leg. I did appreciate that that is part of his character, something he deals with organically but isn’t made a big focus for conflict. It just is.
HEA, hockey player, unhomed vet with a disability, strangers to friends to lovers, hurt-comfort read. No cheating, but, the a-hole ex-to-be creates problems. Don’t worry, he gets what’s coming to him in the end, people finally see through him. Totally safe for me. Recommended.
LA Witt deals well with thorny situations, and this is a great one. Out gay hockey player Anthony Austin is supposedly in a relationship with a teammate, but they’re under so much pressure to be the poster children for gays in a relationship in hockey that they haven’t told anyone they’re separated and struggling, and it’s taking a toll on Anthony’s game.
Veteran Wyatt Miller and his incredible service dog, Lily, are unhomed. Wyatt is begging a local vet clinic to keep Lily overnight/out of the freezing temperatures when the most unlikely person steps in to help—Anthony, who’s there with his two Maine coon cats.
Taking a stranger into his home is probably not wise, but Anthony decides he doesn’t care—this man’s devotion to his dog overcomes his doubts. And so begins a truly lovely romance, strangers to tentative friendship…but don’t worry, while there’s growing awareness on both sides, nothing at all happens until after Anthony and his boyfriend truly break up. Then all bets are off.
But meanwhile, these two getting to know each other—and each other’s pets! Holy moly the ADORABLE PETS!!!—this is a pet-lovers story. The cuteness is real. ANYWAY, ahem. They get to know and respect each other, despite their hugely disparate situations, forming the least likely yet somehow most likely relationship out of nowhere, and it is sweet, supportive, appreciative without any smarmy weirdness due to Anthony kinda rescuing Wyatt…it really feels healthy, though I feel weirdly like it shouldn’t? But they’re so respectful of each other and of boundaries that it worked for me. And once they finally gave in to the attraction... smokin' hot.
Anthony’s ex-to-be is a piece of work, gaslighting, avoiding, blaming everything on Anthony…but he somehow is just shy of caricature and made for a strong antagonist.
The only place the book falls down HARD is on Wyatt’s unhomed situation, because he’s got a loving, supportive family, including two brothers, who would have helped him at any time. Yes, his parents are going through a terrible time, and he didn’t want to burden them, but, his two brothers are fine and want to hear from him. I can understand pride getting in his way, but it was completely unbelievable that Wyatt would let Lily suffer, or that he’d give her up just because he couldn’t bear to admit what had happened to him. The way this man was characterized, just, no way. That was unbelievable. And that undercut the entire book.
It says a lot that I forgot to mention earlier that Wyatt is an amputee with a prosthetic leg. I did appreciate that that is part of his character, something he deals with organically but isn’t made a big focus for conflict. It just is.
HEA, hockey player, unhomed vet with a disability, strangers to friends to lovers, hurt-comfort read. No cheating, but, the a-hole ex-to-be creates problems. Don’t worry, he gets what’s coming to him in the end, people finally see through him. Totally safe for me. Recommended.
June 5, 2024
Interference
By: L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfectly kind together!
In yet another emotional and at times heartbreaking book from one of the in my opinion M/M authors we get Wyatt and Anthony’s book. These two are amazing together. While the book has a good amount of trepidation and sadness the issues aren’t between Wyatt and Anthony these two are good together. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfectly kind together!
In yet another emotional and at times heartbreaking book from one of the in my opinion M/M authors we get Wyatt and Anthony’s book. These two are amazing together. While the book has a good amount of trepidation and sadness the issues aren’t between Wyatt and Anthony these two are good together. The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Disabled veteran Wyatt Miller is out of options. Six months after his eviction, every day is a struggle just to survive on the streets. Sometimes, the only thing that motivates him to move forward at all is his determination to protect and feed his beloved service dog, Lily.
Then a cold snap drives Wyatt to beg a veterinary clinic to board Lily… and puts him on the radar of someone who can’t stomach letting the dog or her owner sleep out in the cold.
On the surface, hockey star Anthony Austin has it all. The fans and cameras see a man with dazzling stats, a fairy tale home, and a red hot sports car. He and his longtime boyfriend are the poster boys for out-and-proud male athletes.
The limelight doesn’t see the cracks, though. His boyfriend has quietly moved out, and nothing Anthony says or does will bring him back. Anthony’s play is starting to suffer, and he’s too miserable to care.
When he sees the man pleading for a warm bed for his dog, Anthony doesn’t hesitate to open his home.
All he has in mind is keeping a man and his dog off the street. He has no idea Wyatt is about to upend his world—and his attempts at reconciling with his boyfriend.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
May 28, 2024
Contemporary romance, hockey player/army veteran, rich/poor, disability representation.
Wyatt Miller is a veteran who served in the military for twelve years and was discharged after being wounded during his third combat tour. His injury resulted in the amputation of his right leg so he wears a prosthetic to get around. He suffers from PTSD and nightmares, which his service dog Lily helps alleviate. Wyatt has been homeless for the last six months after losing his job and being evicted from his apartment. His VA disability payments are not enough to keep a roof over his head and his family is unaware of his reduced circumstances. His dad is battling cancer so he does not want his parents to worry about him during this time.
Anthony Austin is a professional hockey player (defenseman) with the Seattle Bobcats. He has been in a three-year relationship with his teammate, Simon, which has been on the rocks for the past year or so. Simon moved out of their home six months ago and keeps avoiding any attempt by Anthony to save their relationship. They were the first "out" couple in the League and are under constant pressure to maintain their relationship in public, out of fear that a breakup could affect team cohesion and lead to one of them being traded to another team. Anthony has two massive Maine Coon cats named Moose and Bear.
Wyatt and Anthony's paths cross at the veterinary clinic. Anthony overhears Wyatt asking the receptionist if they can house Lily for the night as it is predicted to be a very chilly night and there is no shelter that will take him with Lily by his side. One thing leads to another and Wyatt finds himself staying with Anthony at his massive house for the next ten days. In due course, Anthony breaks up with Simon and he is free to explore his growing feelings for Wyatt.
This was a really heartwarming story and my favourite from the author so far. There was more content about pets than hockey and I am not really a pet person but I enjoyed their antics in this story. I did wonder what Anthony ever saw in Simon because he was a particularly nasty character but he did get his comeuppance in the end so all's well that ends well I suppose.
Wyatt Miller is a veteran who served in the military for twelve years and was discharged after being wounded during his third combat tour. His injury resulted in the amputation of his right leg so he wears a prosthetic to get around. He suffers from PTSD and nightmares, which his service dog Lily helps alleviate. Wyatt has been homeless for the last six months after losing his job and being evicted from his apartment. His VA disability payments are not enough to keep a roof over his head and his family is unaware of his reduced circumstances. His dad is battling cancer so he does not want his parents to worry about him during this time.
Anthony Austin is a professional hockey player (defenseman) with the Seattle Bobcats. He has been in a three-year relationship with his teammate, Simon, which has been on the rocks for the past year or so. Simon moved out of their home six months ago and keeps avoiding any attempt by Anthony to save their relationship. They were the first "out" couple in the League and are under constant pressure to maintain their relationship in public, out of fear that a breakup could affect team cohesion and lead to one of them being traded to another team. Anthony has two massive Maine Coon cats named Moose and Bear.
Wyatt and Anthony's paths cross at the veterinary clinic. Anthony overhears Wyatt asking the receptionist if they can house Lily for the night as it is predicted to be a very chilly night and there is no shelter that will take him with Lily by his side. One thing leads to another and Wyatt finds himself staying with Anthony at his massive house for the next ten days. In due course, Anthony breaks up with Simon and he is free to explore his growing feelings for Wyatt.
This was a really heartwarming story and my favourite from the author so far. There was more content about pets than hockey and I am not really a pet person but I enjoyed their antics in this story. I did wonder what Anthony ever saw in Simon because he was a particularly nasty character but he did get his comeuppance in the end so all's well that ends well I suppose.
June 13, 2024
I liked this book. It was fine. Sweet. Lovely. But there were two things I feel I should mention.
This book was long. I love long books. But if a book is long, stuff has to happen. And it… didn’t. Both characters were in a difficult place at the start of the book, but then throughout the whole book, pretty much only good things happened. I mean, in a short story, that’s acceptable. But if the book is over 500 pages, gotta have some kind of conflict or drama or it’s just… 534 pages of fluff and my teeth are gonna fall out because it was way too sweet.
I loved the themes in this book. The relationship-within-a-sports-team-gone-wrong was fantastic because usually we get the HEA point of view. The homeless and disabled veteran theme was also fantastic, and it was done pretty well EXCEPT that at times it felt very “teachy”, which was not particularly enjoyable. Thinking back, I don’t think it was anything Wyatt said that made it feel teachy; it was more Anthony’s “omg you’re right! I never realised this!” responses to absolutely everything. I also don’t think this response was entirely believable. Anthony was kinda rich and entitled, and I think for some of it a more defensive/unhelpful problem solving response would have been more realistic. I mean, yeah, he would have looked like a bit of a muppet, but that’s the first step towards learning better.
P.S. Characters don’t have to be perfect, even if you love them. They’re more relatable if they make mistakes and develop/grow/learn over time.
And there was one thing I feel I should not mention but I’m gonna anyway. It’s not actually a spoiler, but
This book was long. I love long books. But if a book is long, stuff has to happen. And it… didn’t. Both characters were in a difficult place at the start of the book, but then throughout the whole book, pretty much only good things happened. I mean, in a short story, that’s acceptable. But if the book is over 500 pages, gotta have some kind of conflict or drama or it’s just… 534 pages of fluff and my teeth are gonna fall out because it was way too sweet.
I loved the themes in this book. The relationship-within-a-sports-team-gone-wrong was fantastic because usually we get the HEA point of view. The homeless and disabled veteran theme was also fantastic, and it was done pretty well EXCEPT that at times it felt very “teachy”, which was not particularly enjoyable. Thinking back, I don’t think it was anything Wyatt said that made it feel teachy; it was more Anthony’s “omg you’re right! I never realised this!” responses to absolutely everything. I also don’t think this response was entirely believable. Anthony was kinda rich and entitled, and I think for some of it a more defensive/unhelpful problem solving response would have been more realistic. I mean, yeah, he would have looked like a bit of a muppet, but that’s the first step towards learning better.
P.S. Characters don’t have to be perfect, even if you love them. They’re more relatable if they make mistakes and develop/grow/learn over time.
And there was one thing I feel I should not mention but I’m gonna anyway. It’s not actually a spoiler, but
June 16, 2024
The author can be a hit and miss for me. This one is definitely a miss.
I get that there are non-confrontational people, but when someone can't even stand up and advocate for themselves, they a little bit deserve their own situation. And Anthony is very much in this category.
The way the animals were treated was not unrealistic, I know a lot of people do this, but it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine. Pets should not eat people food. Especially not when people are eating people food. Give them cat/dog treats. Or if you really want to feed them whatever you are eating, give it to them before or after you eat. Otherwise don't be surprised when they steal your food. And don't be surprised when they steal your food that may be poisonous for them. Also the counter is no place for a cat. And they can be taught that. I've had cats my whole life, none of them jumped on the counter. So yeah, I know there are people who do this, but can we at least not advertise and normalize the behavior?
The dialogues made me feel like I was watching a really bad movie. They were forced and inane... And every repetition felt like my soul was being killed little by little. Because Anthony was such a great person. Even though he had money and had no material need, he was kind. Wyatt was so greatful that he ran into him when he did, because he is such a nice guy... And on the other hand, Anthony really fought for his relationship, unlike Simon. He really wanted to make it work, unlike Simon. He was really conflicted about the end of their relationship, unlike Simon...
And the messages... We were just being hit in the face with them over and over again. It is really hard to be a veteran, it is really hard to be homeless, there are people who are cruel with the homeless. And just to be sure about the correct reaction to this, we get Anthony's example, who didn't even know and is outraged by this. Man, where have you lived your whole life?
So yeah, my issues had issues with this one. Meh, onto the next.
I get that there are non-confrontational people, but when someone can't even stand up and advocate for themselves, they a little bit deserve their own situation. And Anthony is very much in this category.
The way the animals were treated was not unrealistic, I know a lot of people do this, but it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine. Pets should not eat people food. Especially not when people are eating people food. Give them cat/dog treats. Or if you really want to feed them whatever you are eating, give it to them before or after you eat. Otherwise don't be surprised when they steal your food. And don't be surprised when they steal your food that may be poisonous for them. Also the counter is no place for a cat. And they can be taught that. I've had cats my whole life, none of them jumped on the counter. So yeah, I know there are people who do this, but can we at least not advertise and normalize the behavior?
The dialogues made me feel like I was watching a really bad movie. They were forced and inane... And every repetition felt like my soul was being killed little by little. Because Anthony was such a great person. Even though he had money and had no material need, he was kind. Wyatt was so greatful that he ran into him when he did, because he is such a nice guy... And on the other hand, Anthony really fought for his relationship, unlike Simon. He really wanted to make it work, unlike Simon. He was really conflicted about the end of their relationship, unlike Simon...
And the messages... We were just being hit in the face with them over and over again. It is really hard to be a veteran, it is really hard to be homeless, there are people who are cruel with the homeless. And just to be sure about the correct reaction to this, we get Anthony's example, who didn't even know and is outraged by this. Man, where have you lived your whole life?
So yeah, my issues had issues with this one. Meh, onto the next.
July 23, 2024
This one gave me the warm and fuzzies. It’s a hurt/comfort slow burn focused on Wyatt, a homeless disabled veteran, and Anthony, the hockey player who helps him off the streets. And, of course, the world’s most adorable service dog and a pair of mischievous giant cats.
Some people might be turned off by the fact that Anthony spends a very big chunk of the book in a relationship with Simon, his teammate, but it’s important to emphasize that there is no love triangle and no cheating, physical or emotional. Anthony’s and Simon’s relationship is on the rocks way before Wyatt, but as long as they are together, nothing remotely romantic happens between Anthony and Wyatt.
In fact, my favorite part of this book is how much it takes its time to build their relationship from a solid friendship to something more. There’s physical attraction from relatively early on, but it’s them getting closer and leaning on each other that builds it into full-on feelings. The fact that there is no conflict between them also helps shape it into a dynamic that feels solid and genuine. The sexual tension is pretty well done as well — I had butterflies in my belly on their first kiss.
There are only a couple of things I think could’ve been better, but they are both very minor. One, I think the author leaned too hard on a villainous arc for Simon only to have it all be fine in the epilogue — I could’ve bought the therapy and apology had Simon not been such an unforgivable shit only two chapters ago, and it felt like the author wanted to have the cake and eat it too. The second is just the epilogue in general; too syrupy, with everything working all a little bit too perfectly. It was sweet, but I think it would’ve felt more special had it been a little more grounded.
All in all, a great read that reminded me I really want to find more hurt/comfort reads.
Some people might be turned off by the fact that Anthony spends a very big chunk of the book in a relationship with Simon, his teammate, but it’s important to emphasize that there is no love triangle and no cheating, physical or emotional. Anthony’s and Simon’s relationship is on the rocks way before Wyatt, but as long as they are together, nothing remotely romantic happens between Anthony and Wyatt.
In fact, my favorite part of this book is how much it takes its time to build their relationship from a solid friendship to something more. There’s physical attraction from relatively early on, but it’s them getting closer and leaning on each other that builds it into full-on feelings. The fact that there is no conflict between them also helps shape it into a dynamic that feels solid and genuine. The sexual tension is pretty well done as well — I had butterflies in my belly on their first kiss.
There are only a couple of things I think could’ve been better, but they are both very minor. One, I think the author leaned too hard on a villainous arc for Simon only to have it all be fine in the epilogue — I could’ve bought the therapy and apology had Simon not been such an unforgivable shit only two chapters ago, and it felt like the author wanted to have the cake and eat it too. The second is just the epilogue in general; too syrupy, with everything working all a little bit too perfectly. It was sweet, but I think it would’ve felt more special had it been a little more grounded.
All in all, a great read that reminded me I really want to find more hurt/comfort reads.
October 9, 2024
Wonderful storyline and MMC's...human as well as the the four-legged ones!
Love that dedication photo.- made it easy to visualize Bear more vividly.
I really liked this one by L. A. Witt -- I bought this months ago, but didn't ge to read it until this morning. Her last few hockey stories have covered some seriously heavy hockey-related issues, but have been exceptionally relatable. Anthony stood out as a warm, giving, completely down-to-earth sports celebrity who didn't let himself forget where he came from, before all the money, fame, and luxury. As an owner of two demanding, spoiled Maine Coons, he responded to Wyatt's overwhelmingly selfless concern for his doberman service dog getting shelter from the freezing cold Seattle night and offered both Wyatt and Lily shelter. Wyatt's a little shocked but willing to push his pride aside for his dog Lily, so he accepts, and his gentle, naturally honest and animal loving personality resonates with Anthony.
The romance builds slowly, and we get to see Anthony's extremely self-centered boyfriend Simon manipulate him to the point of exhaustion, sabotaging Snthony's concentration and hockey playing. The cats offer humor and lighthearted companionship to both men, since Wyatt is left at home while Anthony travels to away games, and both Bear and Moose quickly worm their way into Lily and Wyatt's affections (sigh - okay they go to me, too).
Great world and character building; I very much recommend this book. The cats alone are worth it, but Wyatt and Anthony are pretty awrsome as well.
Love that dedication photo.- made it easy to visualize Bear more vividly.
I really liked this one by L. A. Witt -- I bought this months ago, but didn't ge to read it until this morning. Her last few hockey stories have covered some seriously heavy hockey-related issues, but have been exceptionally relatable. Anthony stood out as a warm, giving, completely down-to-earth sports celebrity who didn't let himself forget where he came from, before all the money, fame, and luxury. As an owner of two demanding, spoiled Maine Coons, he responded to Wyatt's overwhelmingly selfless concern for his doberman service dog getting shelter from the freezing cold Seattle night and offered both Wyatt and Lily shelter. Wyatt's a little shocked but willing to push his pride aside for his dog Lily, so he accepts, and his gentle, naturally honest and animal loving personality resonates with Anthony.
The romance builds slowly, and we get to see Anthony's extremely self-centered boyfriend Simon manipulate him to the point of exhaustion, sabotaging Snthony's concentration and hockey playing. The cats offer humor and lighthearted companionship to both men, since Wyatt is left at home while Anthony travels to away games, and both Bear and Moose quickly worm their way into Lily and Wyatt's affections (sigh - okay they go to me, too).
Great world and character building; I very much recommend this book. The cats alone are worth it, but Wyatt and Anthony are pretty awrsome as well.
May 31, 2024
This is a Cinderella type story, with a wealthy hockey player who takes in a homeless veteran and his service dog one cold winter night. The highlight is the animals, both the dog, and the two Maine Coon cats with opposite personalities who flounce through the narrative. It has some pointed things to say about how we treat our veterans, and the Catch-22s of disability and homelessness. I liked the slow burn between the MCs and how they each found warmth and safety in sharing their lives and space.
Anthony is pretending to be with his ex-boyfriend Simon, and that pressure keeps him from being out even to his teammates about what is happening in his life. They are an out queer couple in professional hockey, and expected to present a happy rainbow front to fans and management, to "justify" being allowed to date. This might seem far-fetched as a plot driver, but in fact, I could see a hockey club putting that condition on teammates dating, that they not be allowed to bring any relationship drama into the locker room or onto the ice.
I did wish that Simon didn't become as stereotypically the bad guy. It would've been a fully psychologically interesting story if he and Anthony just broke up with maybe some bad feelings but not that much. And I would have liked more conflict between Anthony and Wyatt - was waiting for Wyatt to say "that's too much" to some of the largess. But I enjoyed the read and the ending was satisfying.
Anthony is pretending to be with his ex-boyfriend Simon, and that pressure keeps him from being out even to his teammates about what is happening in his life. They are an out queer couple in professional hockey, and expected to present a happy rainbow front to fans and management, to "justify" being allowed to date. This might seem far-fetched as a plot driver, but in fact, I could see a hockey club putting that condition on teammates dating, that they not be allowed to bring any relationship drama into the locker room or onto the ice.
I did wish that Simon didn't become as stereotypically the bad guy. It would've been a fully psychologically interesting story if he and Anthony just broke up with maybe some bad feelings but not that much. And I would have liked more conflict between Anthony and Wyatt - was waiting for Wyatt to say "that's too much" to some of the largess. But I enjoyed the read and the ending was satisfying.
August 2, 2024
Wyatt is a disabled veteran, now homeless with only his dog to keep him company. When Anthony sees them, he can’t help but try to help. Anthony may seem to have his life altogether, but no one sees him for who he really is.
Wyatt's situation had me crying sometimes, just so many things that were just unfair (& Simon, wow, I have no words...), one on top of the other... *sigh*
Just a tiny detail...We see Wyatt without his prosthetic in bed near the beginning, but he never seems to take it off at night when he's with Anthony. I know a fair bit about this topic, & it's better to take off any prosthetics at night to give your body a rest, as well as to extend the period of time the prosthetics will last. In any case, I wish he'd taken it off when he was with Anthony, just to show how comfortable they are with each other & to add a bit of realism.
Despite this detail, everything else that happened was quite realistic & just hard to read about, especially where Wyatt was concerned. A
There were a lot of things that had to happen for them to get their HEA, but it was worth it in the end, & the epilogue wrapped things up quite nicely.
Wyatt's situation had me crying sometimes, just so many things that were just unfair (& Simon, wow, I have no words...), one on top of the other... *sigh*
Just a tiny detail...We see Wyatt without his prosthetic in bed near the beginning, but he never seems to take it off at night when he's with Anthony. I know a fair bit about this topic, & it's better to take off any prosthetics at night to give your body a rest, as well as to extend the period of time the prosthetics will last. In any case, I wish he'd taken it off when he was with Anthony, just to show how comfortable they are with each other & to add a bit of realism.
Despite this detail, everything else that happened was quite realistic & just hard to read about, especially where Wyatt was concerned. A
There were a lot of things that had to happen for them to get their HEA, but it was worth it in the end, & the epilogue wrapped things up quite nicely.
August 4, 2024
All in all I liked it. I liked the characters, animals and the story. But.
It was too repetitive. I skipped some parts.
We didn't get to know ANYTHING about Wyatt's trauma or anything really about his life during the army, his friends, anything.
The whole thing between them was a bit too easy. Anthony saved him by taking him off the streets, buying him anything he needed and basically made it possible for Wyatt to start an organisation.
The whole discussion over what if they broke up, would he toss him out etc and going along with no, Anthony would get him a hotel room or something had me like '' you did not want to accept help from your parents but you gladly take it from a stranger? "
The whole family thing also. Wyatt thought he'd be a burden and chose homelessness instead of going home. Yes his parents would have to feed him but what other expenses would he have them cover? Actually he'd have enough money to get his few expenses covered while helping his mom and having stability to stand on his feet again. I don't get it.
It was too repetitive. I skipped some parts.
We didn't get to know ANYTHING about Wyatt's trauma or anything really about his life during the army, his friends, anything.
The whole thing between them was a bit too easy. Anthony saved him by taking him off the streets, buying him anything he needed and basically made it possible for Wyatt to start an organisation.
The whole discussion over what if they broke up, would he toss him out etc and going along with no, Anthony would get him a hotel room or something had me like '' you did not want to accept help from your parents but you gladly take it from a stranger? "
The whole family thing also. Wyatt thought he'd be a burden and chose homelessness instead of going home. Yes his parents would have to feed him but what other expenses would he have them cover? Actually he'd have enough money to get his few expenses covered while helping his mom and having stability to stand on his feet again. I don't get it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
Mygod this book .... Just 1 to 2 chapters in already made me cry 😭 like hello?
Im not from America but the struggles of your veterans there is just... its too much , no person who gave their life for the country deserves such treatment. Still, this story made me learn a lot , even the kinds of cats, maine coons? Damn! Now i want one! Lol , but still... oh yes! And about service dogs!? I didnt know service dogs has those kinds of jobs. Different jobs. Honestly, my frustration over Simon was been covered w how or what kind of a person Anthony is. Of all the MMCs i have encountered , this man is the greenest. The sweetest and kindest person ever. Pls sir. You deserve Wyatt. Big hugs to my baby Wyatt to. Just 2 chapters in and I already claimed him as my baby. Im so happy for you and Lily too Babe. Youve hanged in there so you deserve all the things youve got .. finally. I want to hug you so much. Im so happy for you and Anthony 😭❤️
Shut up! Im actually teary eyed writing this. Of all Wyatt's experience.. its just...
Im not from America but the struggles of your veterans there is just... its too much , no person who gave their life for the country deserves such treatment. Still, this story made me learn a lot , even the kinds of cats, maine coons? Damn! Now i want one! Lol , but still... oh yes! And about service dogs!? I didnt know service dogs has those kinds of jobs. Different jobs. Honestly, my frustration over Simon was been covered w how or what kind of a person Anthony is. Of all the MMCs i have encountered , this man is the greenest. The sweetest and kindest person ever. Pls sir. You deserve Wyatt. Big hugs to my baby Wyatt to. Just 2 chapters in and I already claimed him as my baby. Im so happy for you and Lily too Babe. Youve hanged in there so you deserve all the things youve got .. finally. I want to hug you so much. Im so happy for you and Anthony 😭❤️
Shut up! Im actually teary eyed writing this. Of all Wyatt's experience.. its just...
November 25, 2024
This is the review where I admit to myself that I don't connect with LA Witt's writing. I like the idea of the characters. I like the flow of the writing. I like the premise of the story. I like the social commentary. I just don't feel satisfied by the resolutions. Sure, this is a romance. Yes, the characters get together. Yes, there is romantic tension. I just don't feel like character development occurs. By the end of the story, time has progressed, but Anthony and Wyatt are the exact same people they were in the beginning. Events have changed their place in life, but they are unchanged. I guess that I prefer obvious character development or, at the least, punishment for the antagonist.
The setting was certainly accurate. I can attest to this because I live in the area. The hockey is fairly realistic. I question some management decisions, but this is fiction. If you like any of LA Witt's other books, you like hockey, you want to donate to a good cause, and you are looking for good narration, you will enjoy this book.
The setting was certainly accurate. I can attest to this because I live in the area. The hockey is fairly realistic. I question some management decisions, but this is fiction. If you like any of LA Witt's other books, you like hockey, you want to donate to a good cause, and you are looking for good narration, you will enjoy this book.
May 28, 2024
I have some mixed feelings ...
The story is really sweet, the slow burn romance feels real (even if it has a little Cinderella bive) and the cats are the best, but I got a little lost in the too much inner dialogue of the characters... I felt like it lacked the talking part of the relationship...
I would have liked more talking between the two of them, to explain to each other how they were in the situation they were and something more about their pasts, the author just gives us the condensed notes but not the whole or at least part of the story...
I am especially intrigued about Wyatt past and I can't understand why, while being safe in Anthony's house, he didn't start to try to solve his job and financial situation... I also didn't understand the evil turn of the Simon character... in the end I felt even sorry for him...
All in all, I have had a good time reading this but it could have been better
The story is really sweet, the slow burn romance feels real (even if it has a little Cinderella bive) and the cats are the best, but I got a little lost in the too much inner dialogue of the characters... I felt like it lacked the talking part of the relationship...
I would have liked more talking between the two of them, to explain to each other how they were in the situation they were and something more about their pasts, the author just gives us the condensed notes but not the whole or at least part of the story...
I am especially intrigued about Wyatt past and I can't understand why, while being safe in Anthony's house, he didn't start to try to solve his job and financial situation... I also didn't understand the evil turn of the Simon character... in the end I felt even sorry for him...
All in all, I have had a good time reading this but it could have been better
May 26, 2024
Oh yes, another great read. Needed some good editing, but t'was good. A little inconsistent at times ie: Wyatt took his shoes off without hesitation at the first team BBQ he went to, but his parent let him keep them on when he went to visit because they knew it was easier on him...... I find that annoying. But still a great read, if you dont get too bogged down in that stuff. I love a good long read - wondered if it might be too long especially as a slow burn but it wasnt. There was plenty of action to keep the pages turning and it wouldnt have worked if there had been a quick hot conflagration. The slow burn was necessary. Just read it 😊
May 30, 2024
The situation that Wyatt, a homeless vet, and his PTSD service dog Lily, were in at the beginning of the book just tore my heart out. I can totally understand why Anthony would offer his home to the two of them. The new housing arrangement was serendipitous for Anthony and his two Maine Coon cats, Moose and Bear. (BTW, Bear provided me with many humorous times.) I was glad Wyatt was there for Anthony, considering what a douchebag Anthony's ex, Simon, was to him.
It's a longer book, but I enjoyed the whole thing, especially where it leaves Wyatt and Anthony and their wonderful creatures.
It's a longer book, but I enjoyed the whole thing, especially where it leaves Wyatt and Anthony and their wonderful creatures.
June 1, 2024
2.5 stars…Overall this wasn’t a bad story. I liked the MC’s and the general plot. However, it could use a good editor to cut the fat. There was a lot of redundant internal dialogue. And while the cat/dog convos were cute at first, it felt unnecessary as the book went on.
It also felt strange that Wyatt made zero attempts to better his situation through most of the book. There wasn’t even discussion about it. A huge chunk of the story was basically a homeless man moved into a hockey player’s house and played with his cats all day. I kept waiting for more, but things didn’t really progress until about 75% into the book.
It also felt strange that Wyatt made zero attempts to better his situation through most of the book. There wasn’t even discussion about it. A huge chunk of the story was basically a homeless man moved into a hockey player’s house and played with his cats all day. I kept waiting for more, but things didn’t really progress until about 75% into the book.
July 23, 2024
3.75
this book was actually really sweet.
i didn't really have any issues except for maybe a few spots where the wording was weird, or a seemed like a word was missing from a sentence (like i was kind of missing context)? but there wasn't any actual typos
i had predicted that something was either going to happen with simon or tandy which i was right.
overall this story was cute.
but it also makes me sad cause like the way this country treats veterans and homeless ppl is awful, and like the way things are today so many of us are one setback away from being homeless. (sorry this isnt related to the book it just got me thinking)
this book was actually really sweet.
i didn't really have any issues except for maybe a few spots where the wording was weird, or a seemed like a word was missing from a sentence (like i was kind of missing context)? but there wasn't any actual typos
i had predicted that something was either going to happen with simon or tandy which i was right.
overall this story was cute.
but it also makes me sad cause like the way this country treats veterans and homeless ppl is awful, and like the way things are today so many of us are one setback away from being homeless. (sorry this isnt related to the book it just got me thinking)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2024
Boring…
DNF at 57%
I liked the idea of the story and the characters, but found the book just super boring…
The ex is flat, no dimension to this character, just here to be kinda mean to Anthony.
Most of the interactions are regarding the cats, and don’t get me wrong I LOVE pets, but I’d prefer to have character development or actual action happening.
It’s very repetitive, both Wyatt and Anthony thinking the same things and keep on thinking about it so we have like 4 chapters with 2 same point of views on the same action…
At 60% they’re still not together and try not to get attracted to each other for which ever reason…
There’s still no plot…
So it’s a big pass for me sorry!
DNF at 57%
I liked the idea of the story and the characters, but found the book just super boring…
The ex is flat, no dimension to this character, just here to be kinda mean to Anthony.
Most of the interactions are regarding the cats, and don’t get me wrong I LOVE pets, but I’d prefer to have character development or actual action happening.
It’s very repetitive, both Wyatt and Anthony thinking the same things and keep on thinking about it so we have like 4 chapters with 2 same point of views on the same action…
At 60% they’re still not together and try not to get attracted to each other for which ever reason…
There’s still no plot…
So it’s a big pass for me sorry!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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