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All It Takes #3
Try to Fly
Benny
When reality kicks you while you're down, what do you do?
Get drunk and find the hottest guy in the club to take home? No?
Just me then.
Meeting Chris isn't on my bingo card for this year, but once I realize that what I feel for my straight best friend isn't love, I feel like anything is possible. There are a lot of things left unresolved when I take my annual trip back home, but I make damn sure to let Chris know that I'm up for more with him before I leave.
Chris
Friendships, dating, relationships—none of them have ever been something I wanted. And yeah, I might have some hangups about...well, a lot of things, but I also know that Benny is special.
He's sweet, funny, kind, and gorgeous.
So even though it terrifies me, even though I have to hide the panic that wants to come out thanks to my growing feelings for him, I know I can't walk away.
That is, until we both realize who the other man really is.
How can Benny ever be with me knowing what I've done?
When reality kicks you while you're down, what do you do?
Get drunk and find the hottest guy in the club to take home? No?
Just me then.
Meeting Chris isn't on my bingo card for this year, but once I realize that what I feel for my straight best friend isn't love, I feel like anything is possible. There are a lot of things left unresolved when I take my annual trip back home, but I make damn sure to let Chris know that I'm up for more with him before I leave.
Chris
Friendships, dating, relationships—none of them have ever been something I wanted. And yeah, I might have some hangups about...well, a lot of things, but I also know that Benny is special.
He's sweet, funny, kind, and gorgeous.
So even though it terrifies me, even though I have to hide the panic that wants to come out thanks to my growing feelings for him, I know I can't walk away.
That is, until we both realize who the other man really is.
How can Benny ever be with me knowing what I've done?
- GenresM M Romance
Kindle Edition
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 22, 2024
5 stars
I adore Hinsel Meyer's universe, she writes sweet, wonderful, amazing, imperfect guys and I love them all.
Chris really surprised me: he wanted to keep some emotional distance from Benny, but he fell oh so hard for him! And Benny, he had to face a revelation he was not ready for, he didnn't know what he felt anymore, he just craved Chris and he couldn't stay away from him (his text are utterly adorable)
I literally loved Bear and Jules and the fact that they went way out of their comfort zones to reassure Benny: it wasn't easy but Chris was there, helping him through all the mess and drama.
Like the other stories, there are a lot of interactions between all the characters from the previous books, it's like they all move forward together.
I'm already eager to read the next one.
While this is technically a standalone, it can be enjoyed more after reading the other books of the series.
I adore Hinsel Meyer's universe, she writes sweet, wonderful, amazing, imperfect guys and I love them all.
Chris really surprised me: he wanted to keep some emotional distance from Benny, but he fell oh so hard for him! And Benny, he had to face a revelation he was not ready for, he didnn't know what he felt anymore, he just craved Chris and he couldn't stay away from him (his text are utterly adorable)
I literally loved Bear and Jules and the fact that they went way out of their comfort zones to reassure Benny: it wasn't easy but Chris was there, helping him through all the mess and drama.
Like the other stories, there are a lot of interactions between all the characters from the previous books, it's like they all move forward together.
I'm already eager to read the next one.
While this is technically a standalone, it can be enjoyed more after reading the other books of the series.
September 22, 2024
{Try To Fly}
Arc review by Jessie Melka
__________•__________
“There’s an intensity about him that draws me in, it makes me want to grab him and take. Even after I’ve just had him I still want more.”
SHORT RESUME START:
Meeting Chris isn't on my bingo card for this year, but once I realize that what I feel for my straight best friend isn't love, I feel like anything is possible. There are a lot of things left unresolved when I take my annual trip back home, but I make damn sure to let Chris know that I'm up for more with him before I leave.
Chris Friendships, dating, relationships—none of them have ever been something I wanted. But I also know that Benny is special. He's sweet, funny, kind, and gorgeous. I know I can't walk away. That is, until we both realize who the other man really is. How can Benny ever be with me knowing what I've done?
SHORT RESUME END:
Well onwards and upwards fellow readers let’s talk about my experience reading this lovely book but shortly before we start I just wanted to say my appreciation to Hinsel who writes absolutely amazing books and I am incredibly in love with this whole universe and I am planning on reading all of the books besides this series
Benny might be one of my favourite characters ever. I really love his vibe and overall just his personality. I feel like this guy would seriously be one of the popular guys in a group there was so many moments where he made me laugh and was like you go queen!!
Chris is such an excellent guy. I don’t care how he sees himself. He is such a sweetheart and I’m really proud of how he handles himself. Just looking at how different traumas can affect your life. I’m so proud, that he let Benny in even though it was what he was afraid of
Chris and Bette is such a good match for each other. They really make each other better and stand out. The chemistry was amazing and there was so many moments where I just wanted to hook them both.
“Like most kisses he gives me, he makes the world around us seem quieter and further away. We’re the only thing that matters in those moments, and even when we lean back and the world comes back into focus, his blue eyes still make me feel like we’re all alone, high in the sky, flying together.”
*Swoons* as previously said that chemistry is definitely a 10 out of 10 intimately and otherwise the spice scenes Was just perfect absolute perfection. It was Incredibly hot. also, there was definitely some instant attraction between these two almost like fate.
As with all other of Hensels books the found family aspect always hits me right and hard. I like how all the boys are there for each other and especially how Bear and Jules support Benny and comfort him even though it might be a little bit awkward considering
“I didn’t have to try to be in love with her, I didn’t ever have to remind myself of it, I didn’t have to decide. I just was in love with her.”
And of course the nuts so found family but the blood relations Big Ben is the best seriously I wish I had a grandfather like him. Jake was also extremely supportive of Chris and it’s incredibly admirable how the family stick so close together
Now I will stop talking so much let’s get to my reading unfortunately I had to give this only a 4 out of five I just think there was a bit too much space between the climax of the book and the end of it all of course I love to see more of Chris and Ben but I really think there was some points that could’ve been moved to like an extra series like with the others that was also some bits that could’ve ended in a fantastic side Novell
But remember this is just my opinion and to always form your own opinions while reading and never take advice from other people if you wanna read it read it!!
🩷MM Hockey Romances
🏒Found Family
🩷One Night Stand
🏒 Breath Play
🩷Opposite Attracts
🏒Soft Top x Bossy Bottom
🩷NightClub Manager x Athlete
__________•__________
Arc review by Jessie Melka
__________•__________
“There’s an intensity about him that draws me in, it makes me want to grab him and take. Even after I’ve just had him I still want more.”
SHORT RESUME START:
Meeting Chris isn't on my bingo card for this year, but once I realize that what I feel for my straight best friend isn't love, I feel like anything is possible. There are a lot of things left unresolved when I take my annual trip back home, but I make damn sure to let Chris know that I'm up for more with him before I leave.
Chris Friendships, dating, relationships—none of them have ever been something I wanted. But I also know that Benny is special. He's sweet, funny, kind, and gorgeous. I know I can't walk away. That is, until we both realize who the other man really is. How can Benny ever be with me knowing what I've done?
SHORT RESUME END:
Well onwards and upwards fellow readers let’s talk about my experience reading this lovely book but shortly before we start I just wanted to say my appreciation to Hinsel who writes absolutely amazing books and I am incredibly in love with this whole universe and I am planning on reading all of the books besides this series
Benny might be one of my favourite characters ever. I really love his vibe and overall just his personality. I feel like this guy would seriously be one of the popular guys in a group there was so many moments where he made me laugh and was like you go queen!!
Chris is such an excellent guy. I don’t care how he sees himself. He is such a sweetheart and I’m really proud of how he handles himself. Just looking at how different traumas can affect your life. I’m so proud, that he let Benny in even though it was what he was afraid of
Chris and Bette is such a good match for each other. They really make each other better and stand out. The chemistry was amazing and there was so many moments where I just wanted to hook them both.
“Like most kisses he gives me, he makes the world around us seem quieter and further away. We’re the only thing that matters in those moments, and even when we lean back and the world comes back into focus, his blue eyes still make me feel like we’re all alone, high in the sky, flying together.”
*Swoons* as previously said that chemistry is definitely a 10 out of 10 intimately and otherwise the spice scenes Was just perfect absolute perfection. It was Incredibly hot. also, there was definitely some instant attraction between these two almost like fate.
As with all other of Hensels books the found family aspect always hits me right and hard. I like how all the boys are there for each other and especially how Bear and Jules support Benny and comfort him even though it might be a little bit awkward considering
“I didn’t have to try to be in love with her, I didn’t ever have to remind myself of it, I didn’t have to decide. I just was in love with her.”
And of course the nuts so found family but the blood relations Big Ben is the best seriously I wish I had a grandfather like him. Jake was also extremely supportive of Chris and it’s incredibly admirable how the family stick so close together
Now I will stop talking so much let’s get to my reading unfortunately I had to give this only a 4 out of five I just think there was a bit too much space between the climax of the book and the end of it all of course I love to see more of Chris and Ben but I really think there was some points that could’ve been moved to like an extra series like with the others that was also some bits that could’ve ended in a fantastic side Novell
But remember this is just my opinion and to always form your own opinions while reading and never take advice from other people if you wanna read it read it!!
🩷MM Hockey Romances
🏒Found Family
🩷One Night Stand
🏒 Breath Play
🩷Opposite Attracts
🏒Soft Top x Bossy Bottom
🩷NightClub Manager x Athlete
__________•__________
September 25, 2024
Hockey/sports romance, hookups to love, he-fell-first/he-fell-harder sensibility
THANK YOU AUTHOR. Mild spoilers on what I LOVED about this book more than so many.
Finally, a book in which it is not just okay but embraced when one MC finds out the other (years ago, not in the book, it’s very Safe for Me!),
Most refreshing thing I’ve read of late. I am so sick of MCs being expected to be instantly okay with support and space to wrap his head around it himself and didn’t try to gaslight him into thinking feeling any of that was immature or unacceptable. This made my year.
Why only 4 stars? The unsafe sex message regarding PreP. It protects from HIV, but not anything else, so, is a dangerous message, and I was put off that that happened. It detracted from the rest of this engaging read.
ANYWAY. Young hockey player Benny, who thinks he’s in love with his straight best friend, is devastated when that friend turns up with a girlfriend, and he goes off to a new gay club to drown his sorrows in drinks and dance. Club owner Chris, who’s older and experienced, has been so focused on getting the new club into the black that he hasn’t had time of late for his own…needs…and now he can’t take his eyes off this beautiful man who’s dancing like no one’s watching. As if mesmerized, he tells his staff to take over and makes his move…and everything escalates from there. Benny learns he has a kink, and Chris is the one who wants to explore it with him. Neither goes into their one-nighter expecting anything more, but, without realizing it, Chris is drawn in by Benny’s pure energy and starts thinking in ways he never has before, and Benny takes a chance and puts himself out there, hoping for more.
I really enjoyed this story. The growing and genuine connection between the two men is heartwarming (I loved their at first timid then friendly then more text exchanges), and their steamy times have a lovely intimacy to them. I thought the author was new to me, but, turns out I read book 1 of this related series a year or two ago and just forgot. LOL. Now I want to read more of Hinsel’s work.
The voice/tone inches over the cheesy edge a bit, but, I loved what was going on so much that I read through it and enjoyed these two getting put in a tailspin by each other. It’s particularly fun to see Chris trying to figure out what the hell he’s feeling, and I loved his older brother character, Jake, who I realized is a continuing character who runs a sex club that isn’t part of this book, but has been the place romances began in other books. All the secondary characters felt authentic and well-drawn, and while I was confused a bit by who was with who because I hadn’t read all the books, that didn’t matter as far as enjoying this one went, and I’d say you can read it as a stand-alone.
HEA, hockey player-club owner, hookups to lovers to love. The OM drama has nothing to do with cheating or wanting others; it stems from the past and was terrific, a fantastic midpoint reversal that caught me off guard in a great way. No cheating, no others in the book, these twos’ hearts and bodies were interested in each other pretty much from jump. Their minds just had to catch up, and watching that happen was totally entertaining. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
THANK YOU AUTHOR. Mild spoilers on what I LOVED about this book more than so many.
Finally, a book in which it is not just okay but embraced when one MC finds out the other (years ago, not in the book, it’s very Safe for Me!),
Most refreshing thing I’ve read of late. I am so sick of MCs being expected to be instantly okay with support and space to wrap his head around it himself and didn’t try to gaslight him into thinking feeling any of that was immature or unacceptable. This made my year.
Why only 4 stars? The unsafe sex message regarding PreP. It protects from HIV, but not anything else, so, is a dangerous message, and I was put off that that happened. It detracted from the rest of this engaging read.
ANYWAY. Young hockey player Benny, who thinks he’s in love with his straight best friend, is devastated when that friend turns up with a girlfriend, and he goes off to a new gay club to drown his sorrows in drinks and dance. Club owner Chris, who’s older and experienced, has been so focused on getting the new club into the black that he hasn’t had time of late for his own…needs…and now he can’t take his eyes off this beautiful man who’s dancing like no one’s watching. As if mesmerized, he tells his staff to take over and makes his move…and everything escalates from there. Benny learns he has a kink, and Chris is the one who wants to explore it with him. Neither goes into their one-nighter expecting anything more, but, without realizing it, Chris is drawn in by Benny’s pure energy and starts thinking in ways he never has before, and Benny takes a chance and puts himself out there, hoping for more.
I really enjoyed this story. The growing and genuine connection between the two men is heartwarming (I loved their at first timid then friendly then more text exchanges), and their steamy times have a lovely intimacy to them. I thought the author was new to me, but, turns out I read book 1 of this related series a year or two ago and just forgot. LOL. Now I want to read more of Hinsel’s work.
The voice/tone inches over the cheesy edge a bit, but, I loved what was going on so much that I read through it and enjoyed these two getting put in a tailspin by each other. It’s particularly fun to see Chris trying to figure out what the hell he’s feeling, and I loved his older brother character, Jake, who I realized is a continuing character who runs a sex club that isn’t part of this book, but has been the place romances began in other books. All the secondary characters felt authentic and well-drawn, and while I was confused a bit by who was with who because I hadn’t read all the books, that didn’t matter as far as enjoying this one went, and I’d say you can read it as a stand-alone.
HEA, hockey player-club owner, hookups to lovers to love. The OM drama has nothing to do with cheating or wanting others; it stems from the past and was terrific, a fantastic midpoint reversal that caught me off guard in a great way. No cheating, no others in the book, these twos’ hearts and bodies were interested in each other pretty much from jump. Their minds just had to catch up, and watching that happen was totally entertaining. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
September 23, 2024
Trying to fly follows Benny, a hockey player for the Las Vegas Pirates, and Chris, a club owner.
What worked for me:
-instalove is generally not my thing and I thought the trope was subverted well here. Benny and Chris are instantly drawn to each other and connect, but they both shy away from it for different reasons
- The team as found family aspect works really well for me in this series in general, this installment included
- I appreciated Benny getting over his weird feelings about Chris's past quickly
- Chris's backstory drama was well set up and paid off
What worked less for me:
-Gab's role as franchise manager continues to bother me slightly, especially because she's the only female character in the main setting (Benny has sisters who very briefly appear). Everyone loves her so much and constantly talks about how perfect she is that it loops around and irritates me
-The pacing felt a little off to me. There are three conflicts in this book and they all resolve at different points. First, Benny being in love with Bates, who is straight, second, Chris's sexual history, and third, Chris's fear of commitment due to personal backstory. The first resolved almost immediately, the second around the midpoint and the third towards the end. In theory this is okay, but none of these conflicts tied into each other or were at all entangled plot-wise, and I think it would make stronger conflicts and stronger resolutions if they did. This way, it seems like Chris's sexual history has nothing to do with his fear of commitment and like Benny's experience of rejection by Bates doesn't influence how he reacts to Chris's fear of commitment etc, so the characterization can feel a little static.
-The whole thread with Chris's sexual history came off a little slut-shame-y to me
-this is a personal preferences - 'in love with the straight best friend' stories where the endgame love interest is someone else really have to earn it for me to stomach the secondhand embarrassment and this did not really work for me.
-Very little sports in this sports romance
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
What worked for me:
-instalove is generally not my thing and I thought the trope was subverted well here. Benny and Chris are instantly drawn to each other and connect, but they both shy away from it for different reasons
- The team as found family aspect works really well for me in this series in general, this installment included
- I appreciated Benny getting over his weird feelings about Chris's past quickly
- Chris's backstory drama was well set up and paid off
What worked less for me:
-Gab's role as franchise manager continues to bother me slightly, especially because she's the only female character in the main setting (Benny has sisters who very briefly appear). Everyone loves her so much and constantly talks about how perfect she is that it loops around and irritates me
-The pacing felt a little off to me. There are three conflicts in this book and they all resolve at different points. First, Benny being in love with Bates, who is straight, second, Chris's sexual history, and third, Chris's fear of commitment due to personal backstory. The first resolved almost immediately, the second around the midpoint and the third towards the end. In theory this is okay, but none of these conflicts tied into each other or were at all entangled plot-wise, and I think it would make stronger conflicts and stronger resolutions if they did. This way, it seems like Chris's sexual history has nothing to do with his fear of commitment and like Benny's experience of rejection by Bates doesn't influence how he reacts to Chris's fear of commitment etc, so the characterization can feel a little static.
-The whole thread with Chris's sexual history came off a little slut-shame-y to me
-this is a personal preferences - 'in love with the straight best friend' stories where the endgame love interest is someone else really have to earn it for me to stomach the secondhand embarrassment and this did not really work for me.
-Very little sports in this sports romance
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
September 24, 2024
The Pistol Annies, Crystal Palace, only one stomp, bunny, feng shui, the mirror thing
"Try to Fly" - Book 3 is a splendid addition to the "All it Takes" series by Hinsel Meyer. We see characters from the previous two books, but prior reading isn't required. It's just more enjoyable if you do.
"Try to Fly" features Chris Collins, owner of Lure gay nightclub and Benny Olsen, right wing for the Las Vegas Pirates pro hockey team. Both men come from different backgrounds, but their mutual attraction and chemistry is off the charts. This book is very steamy and has some mild kinks.
Benny is a big teddybear for Chris. His hockey team's nickname is Rookie even though he's been with the team about 5 years. He was picked up when he was 17.
Chris has been running Lure for about 2 years. It's where Chris and Benny meet. As they become closer, they are in unknown waters. Both has never been in a relationship before. They also have very little dating experience. The way they navigate their way is sweet and fascinating. With Benny's personality, it makes dating a fun and cute adventure.
The story revolves around them finding their way and slotting into each other's life and circle of friends and family. All the characters are wonderful and extremely likeable. The imagery is richly descriptive; the overall book is well-written. It is really enjoyable and satisfying. I recommend it.
"Try to Fly" - Book 3 is a splendid addition to the "All it Takes" series by Hinsel Meyer. We see characters from the previous two books, but prior reading isn't required. It's just more enjoyable if you do.
"Try to Fly" features Chris Collins, owner of Lure gay nightclub and Benny Olsen, right wing for the Las Vegas Pirates pro hockey team. Both men come from different backgrounds, but their mutual attraction and chemistry is off the charts. This book is very steamy and has some mild kinks.
Benny is a big teddybear for Chris. His hockey team's nickname is Rookie even though he's been with the team about 5 years. He was picked up when he was 17.
Chris has been running Lure for about 2 years. It's where Chris and Benny meet. As they become closer, they are in unknown waters. Both has never been in a relationship before. They also have very little dating experience. The way they navigate their way is sweet and fascinating. With Benny's personality, it makes dating a fun and cute adventure.
The story revolves around them finding their way and slotting into each other's life and circle of friends and family. All the characters are wonderful and extremely likeable. The imagery is richly descriptive; the overall book is well-written. It is really enjoyable and satisfying. I recommend it.
September 28, 2024
A KINK DISCOVERY WITH HEART💕
Ahhh poor Benjamin Olsen, he is so sweet and kind and thinks he is in love with his straight best friend and team mate Norman Wenz until he meets gay nightclub Lure’s owner Chris…
Chris thinks he has everything in life he needs until BB crosses his way.. on the dance floor and then Benny’s lounge floor…
“I have my dream home, my dream job, and everything else I could ever want.”
“Everything is perfect as it is. Why would I ever want to change that?”
I loved their friendship and later relationship and how patient Chris was with Benny and his newfound kinks… among other things…
I loved getting a better insight into Daddy Jake (owner of Provoke) and I am excited to see his book is also in the pipeline…
We find Chris is a dark horse and has a past with shocking revelations that will shock Benny and throw a spoke in the wheel of their budding relationship…
I loved the cameos from couples from previous books and of course Gabs and look forward to Santa (Nicolay Brotnik) finding his ❤️…
Benny’s family is absolutely amazing and we see why he is such an amazing person who swept a commitment phobe off his feet…
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.-
Ahhh poor Benjamin Olsen, he is so sweet and kind and thinks he is in love with his straight best friend and team mate Norman Wenz until he meets gay nightclub Lure’s owner Chris…
Chris thinks he has everything in life he needs until BB crosses his way.. on the dance floor and then Benny’s lounge floor…
“I have my dream home, my dream job, and everything else I could ever want.”
“Everything is perfect as it is. Why would I ever want to change that?”
I loved their friendship and later relationship and how patient Chris was with Benny and his newfound kinks… among other things…
I loved getting a better insight into Daddy Jake (owner of Provoke) and I am excited to see his book is also in the pipeline…
We find Chris is a dark horse and has a past with shocking revelations that will shock Benny and throw a spoke in the wheel of their budding relationship…
I loved the cameos from couples from previous books and of course Gabs and look forward to Santa (Nicolay Brotnik) finding his ❤️…
Benny’s family is absolutely amazing and we see why he is such an amazing person who swept a commitment phobe off his feet…
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.-
September 27, 2024
How to get over loving the straight friend? Hooking up and can't forget said hook up.
This is quite an emotional slow burn, they burn the sheets fairly quickly but emotions aren't coming in fast.
When Benny has to face the painful truth about his friend having a girlfriend he is learning to realise that what he felt was definitely not love. I like the break between the initial hook up and when he and Chris reconnect. It gives some insight into both guys and I love their text exchange.
Slowly Chris lets Benny in, even a stumble in the road when Chris is faced with his past aka two of Benny's teammates, doesn't stop these two learning to realise that feelings aren't a bad thing and I like how Chris is reevaluating his priorities.
The reason for Chris' behaviour though comes out quite late and while it explains a lot, I think it fehlt rushed in the end. A bit too much was squeezed into the last couple of chapters.
This book should be read as part of the series. While Benny and Chris have their own HEA, you understand the background and the other characters a lot better after reading the previousl books.
This is quite an emotional slow burn, they burn the sheets fairly quickly but emotions aren't coming in fast.
When Benny has to face the painful truth about his friend having a girlfriend he is learning to realise that what he felt was definitely not love. I like the break between the initial hook up and when he and Chris reconnect. It gives some insight into both guys and I love their text exchange.
Slowly Chris lets Benny in, even a stumble in the road when Chris is faced with his past aka two of Benny's teammates, doesn't stop these two learning to realise that feelings aren't a bad thing and I like how Chris is reevaluating his priorities.
The reason for Chris' behaviour though comes out quite late and while it explains a lot, I think it fehlt rushed in the end. A bit too much was squeezed into the last couple of chapters.
This book should be read as part of the series. While Benny and Chris have their own HEA, you understand the background and the other characters a lot better after reading the previousl books.
September 24, 2024
"Benny’s head is more of a mess than mine is. Well, at least right now." - Chris
"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could ever find a man who understands and accepts me the way he does." - Benny
I really love this book, this book and their relationship just felt so easy, calming, safe. Benny is very open about his life and feelings. That was exactly what Chris someone that can take over the conversation without asking about Chris his life and to just talk about Benny or anything else. I'm glad that Chris could talk his feelings with Jake (his brother). Chris his childhood wasn't easy and that made the relationship between him and his brother so much strong, he is the only person he trusts.
They had very good conversation about boundaries and it just felt easy, they were so themselves with each other and relax with each other.
I received an ARC of this book from the author, thank you so much for the opportunity, I really love your writing and that you write the characters with so much care.
*
"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could ever find a man who understands and accepts me the way he does." - Benny
I really love this book, this book and their relationship just felt so easy, calming, safe. Benny is very open about his life and feelings. That was exactly what Chris someone that can take over the conversation without asking about Chris his life and to just talk about Benny or anything else. I'm glad that Chris could talk his feelings with Jake (his brother). Chris his childhood wasn't easy and that made the relationship between him and his brother so much strong, he is the only person he trusts.
They had very good conversation about boundaries and it just felt easy, they were so themselves with each other and relax with each other.
I received an ARC of this book from the author, thank you so much for the opportunity, I really love your writing and that you write the characters with so much care.
*
September 21, 2024
It was stated that prior reading was not required, and although that is technically true, I think if I had read the previous two entries in this series it would have filled in a lot of the context that I was missing for this book. Overall though, even though I was a bit confused at times, this was still an enjoyable read. I will say that I think Benny transitioned REALLY fast from thinking that he was in love with his best friend to being totally over it and in love with Chris. Also, Chris's trauma over his parents death, though hinted at very briefly earlier, was elaborated on way too late in the story in my opinion, so it felt really rushed. Still, these two are cute and the camaraderie between Benny and the rest of the team was really fun to read. I am definitely interested in reading the previous two entries in the series now.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
September 27, 2024
This is a great series and each book gets better and better. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Benny is pining over his unrequited love for his best friend and it’s dragging him down. It soon all changes when he meets a man who’s about to turn his world upside down. Chris brings some light into a dark time and the attraction is instantaneous. The chemistry is red hot and they soon realise that this is more than just lust.
I loved how well these two connected, its wasn’t too full on from day one as Benny had some stuff to work through and their lives aren’t well matched in terms of their work commitments and schedules. This causes some major personal conflict for Chris but I think it’s worked through well. They’re both very supportive to each other so it’s no surprise that love soon follows.
Loved that we get plenty of page time with the previous characters, love all the banter between the hockey team.
I loved how well these two connected, its wasn’t too full on from day one as Benny had some stuff to work through and their lives aren’t well matched in terms of their work commitments and schedules. This causes some major personal conflict for Chris but I think it’s worked through well. They’re both very supportive to each other so it’s no surprise that love soon follows.
Loved that we get plenty of page time with the previous characters, love all the banter between the hockey team.
September 27, 2024
This book was a bit different from Hinsel's other books. The majority of the book takes place during the off season, so we really don't get a lot of hockey. There wasn't as much team dynamics/interactions either compared with the rest of her backlist. But honestly, that just gave us more time for Benny and Chris, and these two are awesome
The blurb hints at some sort of twist, and while I really tried to figure it out, I did not see it coming. It added a bit of conflict which the story benefited from. I do wish we would have gotten a bit more about Chris's past. For it causing such a huge issue for him, I didn't think it got the amount of attention that it deserved.
Overall, another good addition to the series. There's plenty of heat, but we didn't get the sports aspects that we have in previous books. It was actually kind of refreshing to get more from the other MC. Now the wait for Santa's story!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
The blurb hints at some sort of twist, and while I really tried to figure it out, I did not see it coming. It added a bit of conflict which the story benefited from. I do wish we would have gotten a bit more about Chris's past. For it causing such a huge issue for him, I didn't think it got the amount of attention that it deserved.
Overall, another good addition to the series. There's plenty of heat, but we didn't get the sports aspects that we have in previous books. It was actually kind of refreshing to get more from the other MC. Now the wait for Santa's story!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
September 27, 2024
4.5⭐️
I love how this author writes sports romance. Hinsel Meyer writes team dynamics in such a real and beautiful manner, I love how these guys really show up for each other in a meaningful way. I absolutely loved the support Benny finds with the Pirates, and especially how supportive Jules and Bear are when Benny needed them. The world building between the author’s various sports series is impressive and I love being able to keep in touch with these amazing characters across the books. Benny and Chris have a lovely, sweet, and sometimes messy time figuring out how to be in a together. I loved that the author gives them the time to make mistakes and really grow into their relationship. I also really loved the blend of spice, intimacy, and absolute sweetness. I really loved getting to know these characters!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I love how this author writes sports romance. Hinsel Meyer writes team dynamics in such a real and beautiful manner, I love how these guys really show up for each other in a meaningful way. I absolutely loved the support Benny finds with the Pirates, and especially how supportive Jules and Bear are when Benny needed them. The world building between the author’s various sports series is impressive and I love being able to keep in touch with these amazing characters across the books. Benny and Chris have a lovely, sweet, and sometimes messy time figuring out how to be in a together. I loved that the author gives them the time to make mistakes and really grow into their relationship. I also really loved the blend of spice, intimacy, and absolute sweetness. I really loved getting to know these characters!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 12, 2024
Thank you Hinsel Meyer for this ARC. This review is entirely my own.
Hinsel Meyer's is one of my favorite authors and this book shows why this author is an auto buy, do not need to read the blurb, I just want it.
This is Benny's and Chris's story and it is some heartwarming, so wrap me in a warm blanket wonderful.The chemistry, the banter, the spice. We get to see Jules and Sterling, Drew and Bear, Milkman and Xander.
We meet Jake, Chris's brother (that is something you don't see coming). This author is able to leave all the side characters stories in the main story in a way that just adds to the story without taking away from the main MCs and their story.
This story shows makes you wish these amazing characters were real. Highly recommend this author.
Hinsel Meyer's is one of my favorite authors and this book shows why this author is an auto buy, do not need to read the blurb, I just want it.
This is Benny's and Chris's story and it is some heartwarming, so wrap me in a warm blanket wonderful.The chemistry, the banter, the spice. We get to see Jules and Sterling, Drew and Bear, Milkman and Xander.
We meet Jake, Chris's brother (that is something you don't see coming). This author is able to leave all the side characters stories in the main story in a way that just adds to the story without taking away from the main MCs and their story.
This story shows makes you wish these amazing characters were real. Highly recommend this author.
September 15, 2024
ARC Review!
Benny is the Rookie of the team, although not really a Rookie anymore, he's only 22 and thinks he's in love with his straight best friend. To drown his anger at seeing Bates with a girl he ends up at Lure and meets Chris. After an amazing night together Benny has a lot to think about and does he really love Bates? Chris, has his own feelings to sort out. A trauma from his childhood keeps him from truly letting anyone in. Can Benny break down his walls?
I love this series and the characters. I being emersed in their world, see their interactions with each other and their everyday lives. Yes, this book is about Benny and Chris, who are sweet and kind. They have low angst, lots of spice and communication. Seeing how their worlds come together is so fun.
Benny is the Rookie of the team, although not really a Rookie anymore, he's only 22 and thinks he's in love with his straight best friend. To drown his anger at seeing Bates with a girl he ends up at Lure and meets Chris. After an amazing night together Benny has a lot to think about and does he really love Bates? Chris, has his own feelings to sort out. A trauma from his childhood keeps him from truly letting anyone in. Can Benny break down his walls?
I love this series and the characters. I being emersed in their world, see their interactions with each other and their everyday lives. Yes, this book is about Benny and Chris, who are sweet and kind. They have low angst, lots of spice and communication. Seeing how their worlds come together is so fun.
September 28, 2024
Baby Benny…
I loved Benny and Chris! Benny was sweet and a little innocent of the world even though he was a professional hockey player. Chris was definitely not innocent in any way but you see him changing his ways for Benny.
Benny thought he was in love with his best friend but what he had was a puppy crush compared his feelings he develops for Chris. They have the chemistry and can’t stay away from each other even when some truths are revealed about Chris and his past. Benny being young made him needing time to sort out his feelings.
This has lots of chemistry, sweetness and steaminess. This was my first time reading a book by this author, I enjoyed it and will definitely go back and read the first two books in this series. Plus patiently wait for the next book.
I loved Benny and Chris! Benny was sweet and a little innocent of the world even though he was a professional hockey player. Chris was definitely not innocent in any way but you see him changing his ways for Benny.
Benny thought he was in love with his best friend but what he had was a puppy crush compared his feelings he develops for Chris. They have the chemistry and can’t stay away from each other even when some truths are revealed about Chris and his past. Benny being young made him needing time to sort out his feelings.
This has lots of chemistry, sweetness and steaminess. This was my first time reading a book by this author, I enjoyed it and will definitely go back and read the first two books in this series. Plus patiently wait for the next book.
September 17, 2024
Hinsel Meyer's is fast becoming one of my favourite authors, his books are so captivating.
Benny has just come out and he ventures out to a gay club, he is lonely and just looking to drink and dance. At the club, Chris, the owner is instantly attracted to Benny, but he doesn't know who he is.
Many of the side characters have featured in earlier books in the series and although this can be read as a standalone, the funniest part of the story when all the characters meet up for the first time and you really need to have read the preceding books to understand this interaction.
Can't wait for the next instalment in the series.
Benny has just come out and he ventures out to a gay club, he is lonely and just looking to drink and dance. At the club, Chris, the owner is instantly attracted to Benny, but he doesn't know who he is.
Many of the side characters have featured in earlier books in the series and although this can be read as a standalone, the funniest part of the story when all the characters meet up for the first time and you really need to have read the preceding books to understand this interaction.
Can't wait for the next instalment in the series.
September 22, 2024
Hinsel is an instaread for me. I always enjoy reading their books and this one did not disappoint. I love how, in each book, there is good mental health representation. This one focuses on anxiety and dealing with grief. Chris, who has never cared to be in a relationship, falls so hard and fast. Benny is very young and a whirlwind of energy, but there are times when he's a wise old soul. Of course it's a hockey romance so there is a lot of hockey. It's very cute. This is an interconnected stand alone, I think, but you will get more out of the story if you follow Hinsel's suggested reading order on their website because previously written couples play a big part in this story.
September 23, 2024
It's lightening in a bottle when Club owner Chris sees Benny on the dance floor and has to have him. Benny is innocence, enthusiasm and adorableness wrapped up in a sexy package and Chris who is leery of any relationships can't help himself around Benny and is drawn in. One passionate, hot night is all it takes for the need to set in, the craving to grow and then reality steps in when they find out exactly who each other really is and just who slept with who. I love all of Hinsel's books and this one is no exception with Benny so golden and lovable. It's filled with passion, friendship and humor. These two are wonderful for each other and it's a joy to share in their story.
September 28, 2024
I found a lot to appreciate in Chris and Benny’s story: both the characters and the plot they inhabit feel thoughtful and at times unexpected– there are tropes to be sure, but they don’t always play out in quite the way you’d anticipate (vague, because spoilers are the worst) and I liked that. It’s really interesting to see the way these two handle their initial attraction, how they navigate the various obstacles and revelations along the way, and how they interact with each other and various supporting characters. Well worth a read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 23, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and author the ARC. This is my first book by this author and I throughly enjoyed it. I will be reading more. This is the 3rd in the series and yes I missed some stuff of the other characters but not enough that I couldn’t follow along in this world. You can read this as a standalone. This is the store of Benny and Chris. They are so great. Low angst, no third act break up and great communication between them. The spice was spicing and I was here for it. The perfect amount of spice and plot IMO. I would totally recommend this book.
September 17, 2024
I enjoyed this one a lot. Benny & Chris fall for each other almost immediately, and then spend the rest of the book working out how to be okay with each other's schedules. There are a lot of side characters (Benny's teammates, members of both families, Chris's employees), and I felt like I might have gotten a little more out of this had I read the other books first.
Definitely a fun read, whether you've read the first 2 or not.
Definitely a fun read, whether you've read the first 2 or not.
September 20, 2024
Hinsel Meyer is one of my absolute favourite authors! Her stories transfix me and I have to scheduel a Hinsel read very carefully because I binge her words in one sitting, and I'm always a little sad when her stories end because it means I am no longer living in her world with those particular characters.
Try to Fly is no exception, I could not put this down!
Banter on point, all the usual suspects I have come to love, a couple of twists and turns. Overall ... Love, Love, Love
Try to Fly is no exception, I could not put this down!
Banter on point, all the usual suspects I have come to love, a couple of twists and turns. Overall ... Love, Love, Love
September 16, 2024
Meyer does it again. You would think with as much going on as this series and the parallel one have that at some point the stories would be drying up.
Not the case.
Meyer always finds a way to get more into the main story by squeezing the supporting characters and their story lines. It's a surprise each time and I love it.
Can't wait for the next one.
Not the case.
Meyer always finds a way to get more into the main story by squeezing the supporting characters and their story lines. It's a surprise each time and I love it.
Can't wait for the next one.
September 17, 2024
Fun on and off of the ice. An unorthodox first meeting but the best things in life are sometimes a surprise. This book has its “secrets” but as the secrets are brought to light acceptance and happiness surrounds our heroes. This book has good characters and their interactions and relationships make this book even better. An enjoyable experience. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
September 22, 2024
THOUGHTS
Thank you, Hinsel, for this eARC.
Try to Fly is the 3rd book in the All it Takes series. All of Hinsel novels are same universe, which is something I adore. Try to Fly focuses on Benny & Chris, one who loves love and one who is terrified. I cannot tell you how much I was rooting for them after their 1 night. This book had a few twists I just did not see coming. Hinsel, if you could just write a short story from everyone at the Dinner Parties POV, that would be amazing. Thank you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Try to Fly could be read as a standalone, but I would seriously read the rest of the universe. Hinsel had a cool graphic on her insta, which shows a suggested reading order
Things I loved
🍸 Dual POV
🏒 Same Universe
🍸 Epilogue
🏒 Opposites Attract
🍸 K1nk Discovery
🏒 Bonus Content
Thank you, Hinsel, for this eARC.
Try to Fly is the 3rd book in the All it Takes series. All of Hinsel novels are same universe, which is something I adore. Try to Fly focuses on Benny & Chris, one who loves love and one who is terrified. I cannot tell you how much I was rooting for them after their 1 night. This book had a few twists I just did not see coming. Hinsel, if you could just write a short story from everyone at the Dinner Parties POV, that would be amazing. Thank you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Try to Fly could be read as a standalone, but I would seriously read the rest of the universe. Hinsel had a cool graphic on her insta, which shows a suggested reading order
Things I loved
🍸 Dual POV
🏒 Same Universe
🍸 Epilogue
🏒 Opposites Attract
🍸 K1nk Discovery
🏒 Bonus Content
September 23, 2024
Going in I was worried for Chris! Benny really genuinely thought he was in love with his best friend. I loved that once he connected with Chris the feelings that he developed for Chris were real on their own, enough separate from his feelings for his best friend. I really liked these two and was glad the angst was low, and the chemistry was high.
September 26, 2024
Really good book. I enjoyed the characters alot and seeing characters from the other books was fun. The story developed well on the pages and the way that the characters interacted and the way that they fit eachother perfectly made it very sweet. There was plenty of spice and it was just all around a good book.
September 26, 2024
SUCH a great book!!! Spice starts early and is so delicious throughout. Benny and Chris form a wonderful friendship, then relationship. It’s also great fun seeing the guys from previous books. There is a shocking reveal that is also fairly entertaining. The setup for the next book is… gah!!! I need it now!
September 28, 2024
This was such a a sweet read. I will say they while this is interconnected I highly recommend reading the first few books in the series, this was my first book and at times in the beginning I was completely lost with all the characters.
Benny was so sweet and innocent definite. I really like how patient Christ was.
Definitely going to be checking out more from this autht
Benny was so sweet and innocent definite. I really like how patient Christ was.
Definitely going to be checking out more from this autht
September 15, 2024
This was the sweetest book. Benny has my heart!! It was a perfect balance of low angst and just enough to keep me from not wanting to put it down!
It could have you panting and giggling the whole way through! I’m glad I had to opportunity to get this ARC! I look forward to what’s coming next! 😏
It could have you panting and giggling the whole way through! I’m glad I had to opportunity to get this ARC! I look forward to what’s coming next! 😏
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