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Zone Entry
My new teammate and roommate is the perfect golden boy with a fake smile that pisses me off. So why do I want to kiss him?
Caleb
My new teammate pisses me off. Everyone else is falling over themselves when Golden Boy flashes a fake smile. Me? I just want to wipe it off his face.
Off the ice, there’s no escaping Nick Sandoval’s dimples and plastic grin—because he’s my new roommate.
And on the ice? We need to get our act together, or else our final year of college hockey’s going to waste.
I can’t ignore him, and I won’t put up with that bullshit front he puts up for everyone.
Especially when I push his buttons just right and get a glimpse at something no one else has seen—the real Nick Sandoval.
He’s passionate, snarky� and hot as sin.
Nick
I’m in control on and off the ice. I don’t cause trouble and I don’t draw attention.
Until now.
Because Caleb Jennings is determined to make my ice-cold control shatter. He’s antagonistic, impossible to ignore, and has made it his personal mission to wind me up.
My game’s a mess when we’re on the ice together. When I get back to my room, I can’t escape because he’s there as well.
Caleb turns me into a person I don’t recognize. A version that fights back. A version that wants things I really, really shouldn’t.
And one of those things I want� is him.
Zone Entry is an M/M dislike-to-love romance, perfect for readers who like the tension between roommates, hockey teammates, and hormonal college men.
Caleb
My new teammate pisses me off. Everyone else is falling over themselves when Golden Boy flashes a fake smile. Me? I just want to wipe it off his face.
Off the ice, there’s no escaping Nick Sandoval’s dimples and plastic grin—because he’s my new roommate.
And on the ice? We need to get our act together, or else our final year of college hockey’s going to waste.
I can’t ignore him, and I won’t put up with that bullshit front he puts up for everyone.
Especially when I push his buttons just right and get a glimpse at something no one else has seen—the real Nick Sandoval.
He’s passionate, snarky� and hot as sin.
Nick
I’m in control on and off the ice. I don’t cause trouble and I don’t draw attention.
Until now.
Because Caleb Jennings is determined to make my ice-cold control shatter. He’s antagonistic, impossible to ignore, and has made it his personal mission to wind me up.
My game’s a mess when we’re on the ice together. When I get back to my room, I can’t escape because he’s there as well.
Caleb turns me into a person I don’t recognize. A version that fights back. A version that wants things I really, really shouldn’t.
And one of those things I want� is him.
Zone Entry is an M/M dislike-to-love romance, perfect for readers who like the tension between roommates, hockey teammates, and hormonal college men.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2025
143 people are currently reading
720 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
March 15, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
TROPES:
🏒 Hockey players
🏒 College setting
🏒 Dislike to love
🏒 Teammates & roommates
🏒 Queer awakening
A very cute sports romance. The nice boy and his prickly teammate. Loved how Caleb always riled up Nick.
Not only cute, but also spicy. Caleb and Nicky had a great dynamic, loved the teasing and the locker room naughty times.
For how much I enjoy these simple cliché college romances, it was just that. Not exactly special or different from many others I’ve read, but still a nice time and these two made me happy (even if I already forgot most of it, but we’ll chuck that up to my squirrel brain).
The rating is more for the vibes than anything, and because I’m more like Nick than I thought.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Cheating (not MCs)
- Mentions of parental death
- Anxiety
- Chronic illness (not MCs)
- Vers MCs
- Frotting
- Locker room shower 🔥
- Edging
Show me the real you, golden boy.
TROPES:
🏒 Hockey players
🏒 College setting
🏒 Dislike to love
🏒 Teammates & roommates
🏒 Queer awakening
A very cute sports romance. The nice boy and his prickly teammate. Loved how Caleb always riled up Nick.
“Caleb, I’ll let you do anything to me.�
Not only cute, but also spicy. Caleb and Nicky had a great dynamic, loved the teasing and the locker room naughty times.
“You need to stop looking at me like that, Nicky,� I say. “Like how?� Like you’d kiss me again if I asked.
For how much I enjoy these simple cliché college romances, it was just that. Not exactly special or different from many others I’ve read, but still a nice time and these two made me happy (even if I already forgot most of it, but we’ll chuck that up to my squirrel brain).
The rating is more for the vibes than anything, and because I’m more like Nick than I thought.
“Goddamn it, Caleb,� he hisses. “You drive me insane.� “You love it.�
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Cheating (not MCs)
- Mentions of parental death
- Anxiety
- Chronic illness (not MCs)
- Vers MCs
- Frotting
- Locker room shower 🔥
- Edging
March 8, 2025
This was really cute and I did enjoy the relationship between Nick and Caleb, there was just a lot about the writing that bothered me so I couldn't rate this any higher.
The whole book is basically telling with no showing, so much so that a lot of it felt like a detached clinical reporting on the events of the character's life... It made it really difficult to feel emotionally attached to either character because they were both so wooden and we don't really get to experience how they're feeling or how things are affecting them, we just get told that 'this is what happened, this is how I feel, this is what I'm doing now'. Very strange writing style and it kept throwing me out of the story.
Also the character of Nick was very strange. He considers himself a mistake and a burden to everyone in the world and is so passive in his own life that I couldn't understand why that would convince me to care about what happened to him. Because we don't experience his emotions and he's about as communicative and emotive as a robot, I found myself questioning why on earth people put up with his entire lack of interest in everything. We're told he's the star hockey player on his college team but we see nothing to back this up - it's just stated numerous times, but he seems to have no passion for anything in his life at all until right at the end of the book and even then it's everyone else expressing their enthusiasm and making sure things happen for him... I just found it hard to like him or care about him.
I liked Caleb more, but again everything is told. How did his sister's illness make him feel? How did he feel when Nick wouldn't communicate? We get briefly told that he's upset, or he's frustrated, but we don't see the behaviour to match it or get any kind of internal monolgue describing how he feels....
The side character's were interesting enough but it felt like there was a lot of set up for future stories whenever the side characters were mentioned and then all of a sudden we get told that Rhys is super organised, Maddox is super competitive, Schultz apparently cares nothing for being told no... I do think there's a lot of potential with the characters and their stories but I think this author's style of writing just doesn't work for me because I do need to feel emotionally connected to at least one character for me to truly care about what happens.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
The whole book is basically telling with no showing, so much so that a lot of it felt like a detached clinical reporting on the events of the character's life... It made it really difficult to feel emotionally attached to either character because they were both so wooden and we don't really get to experience how they're feeling or how things are affecting them, we just get told that 'this is what happened, this is how I feel, this is what I'm doing now'. Very strange writing style and it kept throwing me out of the story.
Also the character of Nick was very strange. He considers himself a mistake and a burden to everyone in the world and is so passive in his own life that I couldn't understand why that would convince me to care about what happened to him. Because we don't experience his emotions and he's about as communicative and emotive as a robot, I found myself questioning why on earth people put up with his entire lack of interest in everything. We're told he's the star hockey player on his college team but we see nothing to back this up - it's just stated numerous times, but he seems to have no passion for anything in his life at all until right at the end of the book and even then it's everyone else expressing their enthusiasm and making sure things happen for him... I just found it hard to like him or care about him.
I liked Caleb more, but again everything is told. How did his sister's illness make him feel? How did he feel when Nick wouldn't communicate? We get briefly told that he's upset, or he's frustrated, but we don't see the behaviour to match it or get any kind of internal monolgue describing how he feels....
The side character's were interesting enough but it felt like there was a lot of set up for future stories whenever the side characters were mentioned and then all of a sudden we get told that Rhys is super organised, Maddox is super competitive, Schultz apparently cares nothing for being told no... I do think there's a lot of potential with the characters and their stories but I think this author's style of writing just doesn't work for me because I do need to feel emotionally connected to at least one character for me to truly care about what happens.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
March 15, 2025
Zone Entry is a highly entertaining enemies-to-lovers romance featuring roommates and teammates Nick and Caleb. They are complete opposites in personality, yet both are extremely talented hockey players. I loved the banter between these two and the hilarious hijinks that Caleb puts long-suffering Nick through. Their rivalry is highly entertaining as both reluctantly endure each other's annoyances, but overall, they are just as enamored with one another.
Zone Entry is a fantastic story that I couldn’t get enough of. Both Caleb and Nick slowly reveal their true selves. Still, when their feelings finally surface, they are completely devoted and supportive of each other, making their relationship strong and moving as it develops sincerely and earnestly.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Zone Entry is a fantastic story that I couldn’t get enough of. Both Caleb and Nick slowly reveal their true selves. Still, when their feelings finally surface, they are completely devoted and supportive of each other, making their relationship strong and moving as it develops sincerely and earnestly.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
April 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I loved this!
This was such a great hockey romance!! I loved the characters and how the plot progressed. Just wished it was a little longer and didn’t skip over some things.
This was such a great hockey romance!! I loved the characters and how the plot progressed. Just wished it was a little longer and didn’t skip over some things.
March 27, 2025
Caleb is the new transfer student at Camrose University and the new entry in their hockey team. He is not well seen for his snarkiness on the ice and Nick is definitely not a fan of him.
But everything is isn't to change when they become roommates...
Caleb is an interesting character and the main entertainment in this book. He never ceases to amaze me with his filthy mouth and I laughed a lot because of him.
Nick is the complete opposite. He lives to please and is deeply influenced by his father’s expectations—or at least, he thinks he is.
Caleb is his awakening—not just sexually, but on a much deeper level. The more you read, the more you understand. As Nick slowly opens himself up, he doesn’t just gain a friend and a lover but also a more harmonious family and a brighter future.
This was a fast read for me. The plot was simple and could have been developed in more detail, but overall, I was pleased with this book by Maia Kinley. I’m looking forward to the next release in the Camrose U series!
But everything is isn't to change when they become roommates...
Caleb is an interesting character and the main entertainment in this book. He never ceases to amaze me with his filthy mouth and I laughed a lot because of him.
Nick is the complete opposite. He lives to please and is deeply influenced by his father’s expectations—or at least, he thinks he is.
Caleb is his awakening—not just sexually, but on a much deeper level. The more you read, the more you understand. As Nick slowly opens himself up, he doesn’t just gain a friend and a lover but also a more harmonious family and a brighter future.
This was a fast read for me. The plot was simple and could have been developed in more detail, but overall, I was pleased with this book by Maia Kinley. I’m looking forward to the next release in the Camrose U series!
March 21, 2025
Enemies to lovers
Nick the nice guy. He is so passive and non confrontational that when he gets cheated on by his gf right in front of his face, he just ghosts her.
Caleb is a transfer student. His Uncle is the coach of the college ice hockey team Nick plays on.
They become room mates . They’ve played against each other before so there’s some animosity- mostly from Caleb.
Caleb thinks Nick is fabulously dull and fake and a doormat.
� I shake my head, strangely invested in proving my point. “It’s all fake politeness, along with that fake smile of his. It’s seriously giving murderer vibes.�
Once you learn nicks back story, it’s more understandable why he’s a doormat and can’t say what he really thinks and feels to his cheating ex girlfriend and to his dad.
Nick comes back to the dorm misunderstanding Caleb and accidentally effectively cockblocking him and coming across homophobic. He’s actually jealous and lonely but of course he can’t get his words out . Boy is emotionally damaged.
Tequila and nick don’t mix well but it helps him to make up and make a move on Caleb . Not that Nick remembers that part.
We have a 1 bed trope situation happening. A lot of misunderstandings, miscommunication that comes across as hot and cold. But finally they kiss.
“Caleb kisses with the same intensity he handles life with—confident, aggressive, and he doesn’t hold back. I don’t know what the hell came over me, and I’m never going to figure it out now because I don’t think I’m going to survive this.�
They fight. They makeup. They fight . They makeup. Nick is possessive and jealous when it comes to Caleb.
“Baby,� I say, and he sucks in a breath. “You’re closed off, can’t speak up for yourself, and you put up this weird perfect image that annoys the hell out of me.� “Please continue,� he says dryly, smiling. “But I like you. A lot. I like how you work hard and you play hard, and how dopey you get when you’re genuinely happy.� I pause. “And I like how you fuck me real nice.� He groans. “Caleb!�
They work out eventually they’ve been dating and boyfriends for a while now. 🤦🏻♀�
Nick doesn’t get a personality change but manages, with Caleb and his dad gently pushing him, to tell his dad his real career aspirations and go for it.
It ends with Nick and Caleb are in love , and playing together in the NHL.
My thoughts �. I did get frustrated with the constant misunderstandings but I was still cheering for them to be together. I wish there had been a scene with Nick and his dad and step mum, I think he needed to know that they don’t think of him as a mistake .
What I liked was that there were no homophobic arseholes on the hockey teams and that the stepmums portrayal wasn’t of an evil caricature. Honestly , if she had been a bitch , I kinda get it. Honestly I wished that whole backstory had been more delved into because it really made Nick into the person he is.
Also why was Caleb’s sister pretending to hate on Nick?
Book 2 is Killian AKA Schultz and Maddox.
Nick the nice guy. He is so passive and non confrontational that when he gets cheated on by his gf right in front of his face, he just ghosts her.
Caleb is a transfer student. His Uncle is the coach of the college ice hockey team Nick plays on.
They become room mates . They’ve played against each other before so there’s some animosity- mostly from Caleb.
Caleb thinks Nick is fabulously dull and fake and a doormat.
� I shake my head, strangely invested in proving my point. “It’s all fake politeness, along with that fake smile of his. It’s seriously giving murderer vibes.�
Once you learn nicks back story, it’s more understandable why he’s a doormat and can’t say what he really thinks and feels to his cheating ex girlfriend and to his dad.
Nick comes back to the dorm misunderstanding Caleb and accidentally effectively cockblocking him and coming across homophobic. He’s actually jealous and lonely but of course he can’t get his words out . Boy is emotionally damaged.
Tequila and nick don’t mix well but it helps him to make up and make a move on Caleb . Not that Nick remembers that part.
We have a 1 bed trope situation happening. A lot of misunderstandings, miscommunication that comes across as hot and cold. But finally they kiss.
“Caleb kisses with the same intensity he handles life with—confident, aggressive, and he doesn’t hold back. I don’t know what the hell came over me, and I’m never going to figure it out now because I don’t think I’m going to survive this.�
They fight. They makeup. They fight . They makeup. Nick is possessive and jealous when it comes to Caleb.
“Baby,� I say, and he sucks in a breath. “You’re closed off, can’t speak up for yourself, and you put up this weird perfect image that annoys the hell out of me.� “Please continue,� he says dryly, smiling. “But I like you. A lot. I like how you work hard and you play hard, and how dopey you get when you’re genuinely happy.� I pause. “And I like how you fuck me real nice.� He groans. “Caleb!�
They work out eventually they’ve been dating and boyfriends for a while now. 🤦🏻♀�
Nick doesn’t get a personality change but manages, with Caleb and his dad gently pushing him, to tell his dad his real career aspirations and go for it.
It ends with Nick and Caleb are in love , and playing together in the NHL.
My thoughts �. I did get frustrated with the constant misunderstandings but I was still cheering for them to be together. I wish there had been a scene with Nick and his dad and step mum, I think he needed to know that they don’t think of him as a mistake .
What I liked was that there were no homophobic arseholes on the hockey teams and that the stepmums portrayal wasn’t of an evil caricature. Honestly , if she had been a bitch , I kinda get it. Honestly I wished that whole backstory had been more delved into because it really made Nick into the person he is.
Also why was Caleb’s sister pretending to hate on Nick?
Book 2 is Killian AKA Schultz and Maddox.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2025
4.25/5 stars 3/5 spice
This book had me hooked from the beginning, I ended up reading it in a day. I love it when the grumpy character has a squishy soft inside that only his inner circle is privy to. Caleb came across as an antagonistic guy but he actually really cared about the things and people most important to him. He did however have a temper which got in the way of being reasonable at times but that calmed once he found patience and peace through Nick.
Nick was a sweetheart who just saw himself as a burden towards others which led him to be this apologetic, non reactive guy. That absolutely annoyed Caleb in the beginning who did everything he could to get under his skin and a reaction. Caleb well and truly messed up Nick’s life but in the best way possible. Nick finally got what he always wanted and was in a better place mentally and with his family.
I absolutely adored the other characters who are obviously going to get their own books in the series and I can’t wait to read them since I’m already so invested.
If you love an enemies to friends to lovers between teammates/roommates, you’ll definitely enjoy this book.
- Enemies to friends to lovers
- Hockey teammates
- Roommates
- College students
- Bi-awakening
- Grumpy X sunshine
This book had me hooked from the beginning, I ended up reading it in a day. I love it when the grumpy character has a squishy soft inside that only his inner circle is privy to. Caleb came across as an antagonistic guy but he actually really cared about the things and people most important to him. He did however have a temper which got in the way of being reasonable at times but that calmed once he found patience and peace through Nick.
Nick was a sweetheart who just saw himself as a burden towards others which led him to be this apologetic, non reactive guy. That absolutely annoyed Caleb in the beginning who did everything he could to get under his skin and a reaction. Caleb well and truly messed up Nick’s life but in the best way possible. Nick finally got what he always wanted and was in a better place mentally and with his family.
I absolutely adored the other characters who are obviously going to get their own books in the series and I can’t wait to read them since I’m already so invested.
If you love an enemies to friends to lovers between teammates/roommates, you’ll definitely enjoy this book.
- Enemies to friends to lovers
- Hockey teammates
- Roommates
- College students
- Bi-awakening
- Grumpy X sunshine
April 4, 2025
Hello Maia Kinley, I really enjoyed this college romance. The way these two young men start off in such an intense dislike situation only to end up so good for each other was a joy to read. Low angst, smooth bi awakening for darling Nick. And the whirlwind that is Caleb finding the love of his life and teammate. I loved it and cannot wait for Maddox and Killian's book.
March 15, 2025
Rating - 3.5 Stars rounded up
This was a cute college hockey romance. Caleb transfers to Camrose University and their hockey team. He has been kind of an antagonistic jerk on the ice previously and rolls in scowling and ready to absolutely not make friends.
He also is now roommates with Nick. There is some push and pull and snarky comments at first but then they form a cute little truce and Nick starts thinking maybe he is not so straight after all. I appreciate how their physical relationship goes slowly - they don’t rush into anything and they take it at a pace Nick is comfortable with.
There is no crazy plotline and it’s quite low angst so you can kind of assume where it goes from there.
I did really like the little friend group and I am intrigued to see who gets stories next.
This was a cute college hockey romance. Caleb transfers to Camrose University and their hockey team. He has been kind of an antagonistic jerk on the ice previously and rolls in scowling and ready to absolutely not make friends.
He also is now roommates with Nick. There is some push and pull and snarky comments at first but then they form a cute little truce and Nick starts thinking maybe he is not so straight after all. I appreciate how their physical relationship goes slowly - they don’t rush into anything and they take it at a pace Nick is comfortable with.
There is no crazy plotline and it’s quite low angst so you can kind of assume where it goes from there.
I did really like the little friend group and I am intrigued to see who gets stories next.
March 24, 2025
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this book. It was funny, cute, and very low in drama. The usual enemies-to-lovers, college set-up. Caleb moves in with Nick and takes an instant disliking to him. Nick, however, remains kind and thoughtful until Caleb sees the real man behind the smile he detests so much.
This book made me laugh a few times. Caleb was cheeky, and his constantly rubbing people up the wrong way, whilst being endearingly funny, was entertaining. Nick felt a little more robotic. I can understand how he may have felt like an outsider when he went to live with his dad, but from what we do learn, his parents have never made him feel like that. It’s all in his head. This would be justified if it was explored more, but he tells Caleb why, and that’s it. Discussion over.
I did feel like the writing was a little stilted. It was almost like the author has a list of tropes they wanted to use, and at times it read like a list. Enemies-to-lovers. Potential bad parents. Illness. Homophobia. They were never developed far but were given just enough time to make them mesh. But it felt like we were being told and not brought into the story. -You’ll feel this way because that’s how Caleb or Nick feels.
I enjoyed it; it was fun, but I think the writing style could be a little bit more fluid for me.
—�
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest opinion.
I enjoyed this book. It was funny, cute, and very low in drama. The usual enemies-to-lovers, college set-up. Caleb moves in with Nick and takes an instant disliking to him. Nick, however, remains kind and thoughtful until Caleb sees the real man behind the smile he detests so much.
This book made me laugh a few times. Caleb was cheeky, and his constantly rubbing people up the wrong way, whilst being endearingly funny, was entertaining. Nick felt a little more robotic. I can understand how he may have felt like an outsider when he went to live with his dad, but from what we do learn, his parents have never made him feel like that. It’s all in his head. This would be justified if it was explored more, but he tells Caleb why, and that’s it. Discussion over.
I did feel like the writing was a little stilted. It was almost like the author has a list of tropes they wanted to use, and at times it read like a list. Enemies-to-lovers. Potential bad parents. Illness. Homophobia. They were never developed far but were given just enough time to make them mesh. But it felt like we were being told and not brought into the story. -You’ll feel this way because that’s how Caleb or Nick feels.
I enjoyed it; it was fun, but I think the writing style could be a little bit more fluid for me.
—�
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest opinion.
March 30, 2025
"Zone Entry" by Maia Kinley is a captivating and steamy M/M romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Caleb Jennings and Nick Sandoval, college hockey teammates and roommates, start off on the wrong foot. Caleb is drawn to Nick's fake smile and perfect facade, but he's determined to uncover the real person beneath. As they clash on and off the ice, their tension builds, and their dislike slowly turns into a fiery attraction.
Kinley's writing masterfully captures the intensity of college hockey, the passion of rival teammates, and the vulnerability of two men navigating their feelings. The characters are complex, relatable, and authentic, making it easy to become invested in their story.
This book is a must-read for fans of:
- M/M romance
- Dislike-to-love tropes
- Sports-themed stories (hockey!)
- College settings and new adult themes
Be prepared for a passionate and emotional ride that will leave you cheering for Caleb and Nick's love to take the win!
Caleb Jennings and Nick Sandoval, college hockey teammates and roommates, start off on the wrong foot. Caleb is drawn to Nick's fake smile and perfect facade, but he's determined to uncover the real person beneath. As they clash on and off the ice, their tension builds, and their dislike slowly turns into a fiery attraction.
Kinley's writing masterfully captures the intensity of college hockey, the passion of rival teammates, and the vulnerability of two men navigating their feelings. The characters are complex, relatable, and authentic, making it easy to become invested in their story.
This book is a must-read for fans of:
- M/M romance
- Dislike-to-love tropes
- Sports-themed stories (hockey!)
- College settings and new adult themes
Be prepared for a passionate and emotional ride that will leave you cheering for Caleb and Nick's love to take the win!
March 8, 2025
ARC Review
5�
This is honestly one of my favorite ARCs I've gotten so far!
I read it in just a few hours—house chores? Never heard of them! 😅
I absolutely loved Nick and Caleb. I was gone for Caleb right away. 🔥💙
"Has Sandoval been helping you around campus?"
"No?"
"I offered," I speak up. "But he said I have the vibes of a serial killer."
"Note to self: Next time I want Caleb to shut up, all I need to do is grip his throat."
"You're so fücking irritating," Caleb hisses between kisses. "I don't know if I want to knock you out or fück you."
"I snort. How can I not call him a good boy when he acts like a puppy preening for compliments?"
"Thank you," he says.
"Thanking me again?" I huff a laugh. "For what this time... sèx?"
"No," he says, also laughing. "Thank you again for coming back. I didn't know I needed you until I saw you."
Their relationship didn't start well, to say the least. They faced each other a few times on the ice, and Caleb hated everything about Nick. But due to personal circumstances, Caleb decided to transfer to another college. And guess what? Bummer—Caleb is Nick's new roommate. 🤭🤭🤭
This story was fast-paced, cute, and funny. I was hooked from the start and just couldn't put the Kindle down.
Plus, I absolutely adored the side characters! I'll definitely have to buy the paperback. 💙
Highly recommend!
Can't wait for the next book in the series! 🥰
🏒 Hockey players
🐶 Grumpy x sunshine
🏒 Forced proximity/one bed
🐶 Bi awakening
🏒 Enemies to lovers
🐶 College
5�
This is honestly one of my favorite ARCs I've gotten so far!
I read it in just a few hours—house chores? Never heard of them! 😅
I absolutely loved Nick and Caleb. I was gone for Caleb right away. 🔥💙
"Has Sandoval been helping you around campus?"
"No?"
"I offered," I speak up. "But he said I have the vibes of a serial killer."
"Note to self: Next time I want Caleb to shut up, all I need to do is grip his throat."
"You're so fücking irritating," Caleb hisses between kisses. "I don't know if I want to knock you out or fück you."
"I snort. How can I not call him a good boy when he acts like a puppy preening for compliments?"
"Thank you," he says.
"Thanking me again?" I huff a laugh. "For what this time... sèx?"
"No," he says, also laughing. "Thank you again for coming back. I didn't know I needed you until I saw you."
Their relationship didn't start well, to say the least. They faced each other a few times on the ice, and Caleb hated everything about Nick. But due to personal circumstances, Caleb decided to transfer to another college. And guess what? Bummer—Caleb is Nick's new roommate. 🤭🤭🤭
This story was fast-paced, cute, and funny. I was hooked from the start and just couldn't put the Kindle down.
Plus, I absolutely adored the side characters! I'll definitely have to buy the paperback. 💙
Highly recommend!
Can't wait for the next book in the series! 🥰
🏒 Hockey players
🐶 Grumpy x sunshine
🏒 Forced proximity/one bed
🐶 Bi awakening
🏒 Enemies to lovers
🐶 College
March 5, 2025
I got the opportunity to beta read this wonderful story and I can’t wait for everyone to enjoy it!
March 29, 2025
4 Stars
�
ARC Read: 17/03/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Maia Kinley and GRR for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔🙃
🫶 MM Adult College Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
👉 Hockey Teammates
👉 One Sided Dislike
👌 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
👉 Forced Proximity
🏠 Roommates To Lovers
🛏� There Was Only One Bed
🛏� Sneaking Around
👉 Slow-Burnish
🧁 Sweets As A Peace Offering
🙌 Lots Of Banter
👉 Cute & Teasing Nicknames
👉 Queer Awakening
👉 First Times
👌 I'll teach you
👉 Edging
👉 Needy Whimpering Mess
🤭 Light “Good Boy�
😳 Steamy Locker Scene
👉 Possessiveness & Jealousy
🥰 Supportive Teammates & Best-Friends
👉 Fresh Out Of A Breakup (SC Cheated On The MC)
Series: Camrose U #1
Cover: 5/5
Format: Ebook ARC
Story: 4/5
Cute, very enjoyable book. Fun story. 🥰
Can’t wait for more Camrose University books!
ARC Read: 17/03/2025
I received this ebook for free from the author and I'm leaving this review of my own accord. Thank you, Maia Kinley and GRR for this gift. 🥰
What to expect from this book? 🤔🙃
🫶 MM Adult College Romance 🫣 🥵🤌
👉 Hockey Teammates
👉 One Sided Dislike
👌 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
👉 Forced Proximity
🏠 Roommates To Lovers
🛏� There Was Only One Bed
🛏� Sneaking Around
👉 Slow-Burnish
🧁 Sweets As A Peace Offering
🙌 Lots Of Banter
👉 Cute & Teasing Nicknames
👉 Queer Awakening
👉 First Times
👌 I'll teach you
👉 Edging
👉 Needy Whimpering Mess
🤭 Light “Good Boy�
😳 Steamy Locker Scene
👉 Possessiveness & Jealousy
🥰 Supportive Teammates & Best-Friends
👉 Fresh Out Of A Breakup (SC Cheated On The MC)
Series: Camrose U #1
Cover: 5/5
Format: Ebook ARC
Story: 4/5
Cute, very enjoyable book. Fun story. 🥰
Can’t wait for more Camrose University books!
🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒Q🏒u🏒o🏒t🏒e🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒
”Nick: Trash talking on the ice isn’t entirely new, if you could even call it that—he was basically making a list of nicknames that mocked me, but I doubt being called hottie could even be called an insult.
🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒
Genre/Trope:Adult/MM Romance/LGTBQIA Plus/Love MM/ARC
Trigger Warnings:
Plot: 5/5
POV: 2
Main Characters:
5/5 � Nicholas Sandoval, nickname: Nick, Nicky, Pretty Boy, Golden boy, Campus Hottie, Prom king, Fake-Ass Golden Boy, Boy Next-Door, 20s, cis-man, he/him
5/5 - Caleb Jennings, 20s, cis-man, he/him
🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒Q🏒u🏒o🏒t🏒e🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒
”Caleb: He seems more confident now that we’ve made out a few times. His long fingers wrap around the base of my head, and he holds me firmly against him, and when I pull away, he chases after my lips and whines. God, I’m going to grow a complex about how this guy makes me feel so wanted.�
🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒🏒
Side Characters: 5/5
I love all the side characters!
Rhys, Maddox and Shultz are incredible friends. Need their books ASAP.
Caleb’s sister Penny was a riot!
Humor: Medium High Focus
Angst: Low Focus
Steam Level: 3.5/5
Romance: High Focus
Cheating?
The Ending: 5/5
HEA/HFN?
Favorite character?
Would I read more of this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Enjoyment: 5/5
This is my 1st book Maia Kinley.
Series:
1. Zone Entry - 4,0 stars
🤞 Next Books Maddox & Schultz or Rhys & Issac 🤞
!! I don't equate fiction stories to real life. It's a matter of personal taste and what you are willing or want to tolerate in the books you read. We all have different opinions and preferences when it comes to the kind of books we enjoy, so it's important to respect and remember that it's just a book!!
Hope this review was helpful.
Click Here:
To See All My Reviews On ŷ
April 4, 2025
A reserved star athlete discovers love from a teammate who turns his world upside down.
In this first book of a series, Nick Sandoval is a good student and star athlete on his college's hockey team, but secretly feels out of place with his father and stepmother. It is clear to him that he is a product of an unwanted pregnancy. His desire to repay his father for taking him in after his mother died leads him to choose working for his father over pursuing a hockey career. That's because he believes he owes this to his dad because of his help to Nick.
Nick's hockey world is disrupted when Caleb Jennings transfers to Camrose University. A trash talker on the ice, Caleb is a seducer off of it. He is frustrated that he can't get Nick to respond to his banter on the ice and in the locker room. Caleb's uncle, the college team coach, pairs him with Nick, hoping they'll excel together on the ice.
I did receive an ARC of this book, but this review was not influenced by that or by anyone and is my personal opinion of this great book.
Nick is someone who keeps everything inside; he doesn't share important things with his dad or reveal information to others. He just holds it all in. His smile frustrates Caleb, who believes Nick is doing it to provoke him. Caleb makes it his mission to uncover the truth behind Nick's composed exterior, realizing that Nick is a man of values and passion.
Maia Kenley weaves a rich narrative filled with college friends and family, including Caleb's ailing sister, who occasionally requires hospitalization at a facility supported by Nick's family. Ultimately, Maia Kenley delivers an emotional and powerful happy ending.
Caleb becomes the one who speaks for Nick, but in a way that encourages Nick to reveal what he truly wants and his genuine passions, rather than feeling that he owes his dad for his rescue.
This book is a joy to read. It is filled with character details that enhance our understanding of their self-worth and willingness to help others, as well as scenes that meaningfully contribute to character development.
In some MM romance novels with alternating first-person chapters, the dialogue can feel stilted and uncomfortable to read; however, Mia Kenley maintains enough focus on their story that the book flows seamlessly as these two young men grow into great individuals.
I received an ARC of this book, but this review was not influenced by that or by anyone else, and it reflects my personal opinion of this great book.
In this first book of a series, Nick Sandoval is a good student and star athlete on his college's hockey team, but secretly feels out of place with his father and stepmother. It is clear to him that he is a product of an unwanted pregnancy. His desire to repay his father for taking him in after his mother died leads him to choose working for his father over pursuing a hockey career. That's because he believes he owes this to his dad because of his help to Nick.
Nick's hockey world is disrupted when Caleb Jennings transfers to Camrose University. A trash talker on the ice, Caleb is a seducer off of it. He is frustrated that he can't get Nick to respond to his banter on the ice and in the locker room. Caleb's uncle, the college team coach, pairs him with Nick, hoping they'll excel together on the ice.
I did receive an ARC of this book, but this review was not influenced by that or by anyone and is my personal opinion of this great book.
Nick is someone who keeps everything inside; he doesn't share important things with his dad or reveal information to others. He just holds it all in. His smile frustrates Caleb, who believes Nick is doing it to provoke him. Caleb makes it his mission to uncover the truth behind Nick's composed exterior, realizing that Nick is a man of values and passion.
Maia Kenley weaves a rich narrative filled with college friends and family, including Caleb's ailing sister, who occasionally requires hospitalization at a facility supported by Nick's family. Ultimately, Maia Kenley delivers an emotional and powerful happy ending.
Caleb becomes the one who speaks for Nick, but in a way that encourages Nick to reveal what he truly wants and his genuine passions, rather than feeling that he owes his dad for his rescue.
This book is a joy to read. It is filled with character details that enhance our understanding of their self-worth and willingness to help others, as well as scenes that meaningfully contribute to character development.
In some MM romance novels with alternating first-person chapters, the dialogue can feel stilted and uncomfortable to read; however, Mia Kenley maintains enough focus on their story that the book flows seamlessly as these two young men grow into great individuals.
I received an ARC of this book, but this review was not influenced by that or by anyone else, and it reflects my personal opinion of this great book.
April 4, 2025
Nick & Caleb
Rating: 3.5�
- College Romance
- Hockey Teammates
- Roommates
- Forced Proximity
- Only One Bed
- Bi-awakening
- One Sided Dislike to Love
- Golden Retriever/Black Cat
- Sneaking Around
This was a cute college romance where the prickly transfer student becomes roommates with the golden boy. Caleb can't stand Nick from the moment they meet on the ice on opposing teams, now they are roommates and teammates. Caleb can see past Nick's carefully controlled persona and it bothers him to no end, so he decides to get under Nick's skin. Nick is liked by everyone but is basically a pushover, he has his reasons and should really look into therapy.
Lots of banter and sweet moments while they are getting to know each other. There is also some miscommunication that leads to a prank war. I did like how Caleb began to slowly help Nick speak up for himself and being patient with him while teaching Nick things in bed. Not a lot of hockey, mainly practice and locker room scenes. There could've been more showing instead of telling but I still enjoyed the story overall. This is quite low angst, even with the breakup.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
- Cheating (Not MCs)
- Mentions of parental death (past; off-page)
- Anxiety
- Chronic illness (Not MCs)
- Pranks
- Alcohol consumption
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: Yes, but only one side shown
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, a little over a week
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: Not given; Early 20's
Rating: 3.5�
- College Romance
- Hockey Teammates
- Roommates
- Forced Proximity
- Only One Bed
- Bi-awakening
- One Sided Dislike to Love
- Golden Retriever/Black Cat
- Sneaking Around
This was a cute college romance where the prickly transfer student becomes roommates with the golden boy. Caleb can't stand Nick from the moment they meet on the ice on opposing teams, now they are roommates and teammates. Caleb can see past Nick's carefully controlled persona and it bothers him to no end, so he decides to get under Nick's skin. Nick is liked by everyone but is basically a pushover, he has his reasons and should really look into therapy.
Lots of banter and sweet moments while they are getting to know each other. There is also some miscommunication that leads to a prank war. I did like how Caleb began to slowly help Nick speak up for himself and being patient with him while teaching Nick things in bed. Not a lot of hockey, mainly practice and locker room scenes. There could've been more showing instead of telling but I still enjoyed the story overall. This is quite low angst, even with the breakup.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
- Cheating (Not MCs)
- Mentions of parental death (past; off-page)
- Anxiety
- Chronic illness (Not MCs)
- Pranks
- Alcohol consumption
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: Yes, but only one side shown
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, a little over a week
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: Not given; Early 20's
March 28, 2025
ARC Review:
I have been on an ice hockey romance reading role this month and noticed this college hockey romance coming out and was lucky to be provided an arc copy to read and review by Gay Romance Reviews.
Maia Kinley is a new to me author and I enjoyed Nick and Caleb’s story. This is a rivals to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, roommates/teammates, forced proximity, college hockey story.
Nick and Caleb were college hockey rivals, when Caleb transfers in his final year they become teammates and much to their dismay, roommates. Coach asks Nick to show Caleb around and they do not get long and while Nick tries, he only irritates Caleb.
Nick was such a golden retriever with a gentle soul, never wanted to cause any conflict and masked his feelings with smiles.
Caleb was prickly and often said exactly what he was thinking, he cares deeply for the people close to him.
This was a fast-paced story, Nick and Caleb realised their attraction to each other early, developing a friendship and then realising they both wanted more. There was a period’s of miscommunication between them as they learnt to open up to each other, navigated through their challenges with their families and worked on building a relationship. There was a good amount of hockey throughout the story.
I really liked the way Caleb helped Nick to find his voice and supported him to strive for the future he wanted.
I really enjoyed the side characters introduced throughout the story, especially their hockey teammates Rhys and Schultz and Caleb’s best friend Maddox. This book set up future books really well, you received hints for some future relationships and stories, which I am interested in reading.
I have been on an ice hockey romance reading role this month and noticed this college hockey romance coming out and was lucky to be provided an arc copy to read and review by Gay Romance Reviews.
Maia Kinley is a new to me author and I enjoyed Nick and Caleb’s story. This is a rivals to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, roommates/teammates, forced proximity, college hockey story.
Nick and Caleb were college hockey rivals, when Caleb transfers in his final year they become teammates and much to their dismay, roommates. Coach asks Nick to show Caleb around and they do not get long and while Nick tries, he only irritates Caleb.
Nick was such a golden retriever with a gentle soul, never wanted to cause any conflict and masked his feelings with smiles.
Caleb was prickly and often said exactly what he was thinking, he cares deeply for the people close to him.
This was a fast-paced story, Nick and Caleb realised their attraction to each other early, developing a friendship and then realising they both wanted more. There was a period’s of miscommunication between them as they learnt to open up to each other, navigated through their challenges with their families and worked on building a relationship. There was a good amount of hockey throughout the story.
I really liked the way Caleb helped Nick to find his voice and supported him to strive for the future he wanted.
I really enjoyed the side characters introduced throughout the story, especially their hockey teammates Rhys and Schultz and Caleb’s best friend Maddox. This book set up future books really well, you received hints for some future relationships and stories, which I am interested in reading.
March 12, 2025
I'm still new to hockey romance, but this is already one of my faves! Seeing Caleb and Nick work through their differences and work out their relationship with one another was so fun to read. Even when they had some heated moments and misunderstanding, everything is resolved in a refreshingly mature way. Even with the side characters, I found myself falling in love with Nick's friendships within the team.
And along with being heartwarming, this read had just the right amount of spice. The way Caleb helps to ease Nick into intimacy was the best, and very hot 🤭❤️🔥❤️�
Will definitely be reading the next book when it comes out!!
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
And along with being heartwarming, this read had just the right amount of spice. The way Caleb helps to ease Nick into intimacy was the best, and very hot 🤭❤️🔥❤️�
Will definitely be reading the next book when it comes out!!
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
April 21, 2025
I listened/read two super similar college hockey romances simultaneously and both added to how much I liked either.
This bi awakening and enemy to lovers romance just hit me sweet spot.
I liked how they fell in lust and made the relationship work later on.
This story is super low on angst and the whole hockey team, coach, parents and friends are totally supportive, but I guess I'm a softie right now and I really liked how everything turned out.
I need to know what happens with Maddox and Schultz!!! Next book where are you????🏒❤️
This bi awakening and enemy to lovers romance just hit me sweet spot.
I liked how they fell in lust and made the relationship work later on.
This story is super low on angst and the whole hockey team, coach, parents and friends are totally supportive, but I guess I'm a softie right now and I really liked how everything turned out.
I need to know what happens with Maddox and Schultz!!! Next book where are you????🏒❤️
March 28, 2025
Hockey romance. Enemies to lovers. Yes and YES! this is a recipe for a great book for me.
Zone Entry by Maia Kinley is cute grumpy/sunshine, read with sweetness, sass and banter. Caleb and Nick have a strong dislike for each other and are paired up as roommates.
They are both constantly aggravated by each other. So, obviously the tension and annoyance turns to something else.
Their relationship is so sweet and they both realise that being together makes them both better people. There is some nice warm spice content too, with a lot of intimacy.
This is a fairly low angst read with a satisfying HEA.
Read if you love
dislike to lovers
roommates to lovers
college romance
bi-awakening
sweetness, snark and spice
Zone Entry by Maia Kinley is cute grumpy/sunshine, read with sweetness, sass and banter. Caleb and Nick have a strong dislike for each other and are paired up as roommates.
They are both constantly aggravated by each other. So, obviously the tension and annoyance turns to something else.
Their relationship is so sweet and they both realise that being together makes them both better people. There is some nice warm spice content too, with a lot of intimacy.
This is a fairly low angst read with a satisfying HEA.
Read if you love
dislike to lovers
roommates to lovers
college romance
bi-awakening
sweetness, snark and spice
March 16, 2025
This was great. Hockey MM romance is my kryptonite and this did not disappoint. I enjoyed every minute of this. Nick and Caleb were perfect. Who doesn’t love a good grumpy/sunshine trope? There was some typical conflict but no third act break up which I love. Caleb was just perfect in how he helped Nick find his voice and pursue his dreams. The spice was good. This was a great mix of plot and spice. I cannot wait for the next book about Killian and Maddox as well as Rhys and Isaac! I’m invested!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2025
3.5/5
I understand in a lot of ways why so many people have adored this.
I liked the characters and their stories, and their relationship worked fine for me.
I don’t always love hot headed characters who tease like it’s their job, but that’s a personal thing and I actually did end up liking Caleb. He had a lot of other sides to him that I thought were done well. Nick was frustrating in some ways because he was so much of a people pleaser that he bulldozed over himself even when people explicitly told him what they wanted from him. I liked where he ended up, though.
The pacing of the relationship was way too fast for me. It took less than 25% of the book to entirely transform it, and it didn’t feel to me like it was the dislike to love it was advertised as. There was so little buildup to the tension—it was instant and utterly nonsensical—and not enough time given to the shifting in the relationship. It made for more of an inconsistent start than anything. I also think we needed more time at the very beginning that was dedicated to getting to know the main characters and their baselines outside of the relationship. It’s probably part of why things were so inconsistent: we had nothing to compare it to.
And then we lead right into a miscommunication. Which is bad enough on its own, but it’s theoretically worse because of all their history and dynamic—which they don’t have because we are 25% in. They figure it out and straighten things out, but I struggled throughout the novel to pin them down as people with pre established lives. It feels a little bit like they popped into existence for this story and then went on from there.
I actually really liked the side characters though. This book, very very obviously, set us up for two others. I presume we get Maddox first (hahah it’s confirmed in the acknowledgements, go me) and I hoping the author goes back and shows us some events taking place during the end of this one, because it was very well laid down. I also actually really loved Rhys, and I’m curious about what made him like he is, especially the way he is described by Caleb.
Plot wise, I stand by my thoughts on the rushed beginning, but it was otherwise okay to me. Storytelling wise, however, there was a lot of telling, and not enough showing. Which goes back to the other problem—we’re told a lot about how the characters behave but aren’t shown it so it’s hard to take their rivalry and even their roles on the team seriously. The same goes for Nick’s skill. Caleb mentions it all the time, but it feels like he’s inflating it. Presumably Nick is good, he gets opportunities and such, but we rarely get to objectively see it for ourselves. I wish there was more evidence for the things they said—it would have made everything better for me.
Overall, this one won’t stick, but it was a quick read, and I liked how they went about the coming out story. I might pick up the next one too, depending on how I feel.
Thank you to the author for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
I understand in a lot of ways why so many people have adored this.
I liked the characters and their stories, and their relationship worked fine for me.
I don’t always love hot headed characters who tease like it’s their job, but that’s a personal thing and I actually did end up liking Caleb. He had a lot of other sides to him that I thought were done well. Nick was frustrating in some ways because he was so much of a people pleaser that he bulldozed over himself even when people explicitly told him what they wanted from him. I liked where he ended up, though.
The pacing of the relationship was way too fast for me. It took less than 25% of the book to entirely transform it, and it didn’t feel to me like it was the dislike to love it was advertised as. There was so little buildup to the tension—it was instant and utterly nonsensical—and not enough time given to the shifting in the relationship. It made for more of an inconsistent start than anything. I also think we needed more time at the very beginning that was dedicated to getting to know the main characters and their baselines outside of the relationship. It’s probably part of why things were so inconsistent: we had nothing to compare it to.
And then we lead right into a miscommunication. Which is bad enough on its own, but it’s theoretically worse because of all their history and dynamic—which they don’t have because we are 25% in. They figure it out and straighten things out, but I struggled throughout the novel to pin them down as people with pre established lives. It feels a little bit like they popped into existence for this story and then went on from there.
I actually really liked the side characters though. This book, very very obviously, set us up for two others. I presume we get Maddox first (hahah it’s confirmed in the acknowledgements, go me) and I hoping the author goes back and shows us some events taking place during the end of this one, because it was very well laid down. I also actually really loved Rhys, and I’m curious about what made him like he is, especially the way he is described by Caleb.
Plot wise, I stand by my thoughts on the rushed beginning, but it was otherwise okay to me. Storytelling wise, however, there was a lot of telling, and not enough showing. Which goes back to the other problem—we’re told a lot about how the characters behave but aren’t shown it so it’s hard to take their rivalry and even their roles on the team seriously. The same goes for Nick’s skill. Caleb mentions it all the time, but it feels like he’s inflating it. Presumably Nick is good, he gets opportunities and such, but we rarely get to objectively see it for ourselves. I wish there was more evidence for the things they said—it would have made everything better for me.
Overall, this one won’t stick, but it was a quick read, and I liked how they went about the coming out story. I might pick up the next one too, depending on how I feel.
Thank you to the author for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
March 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this and devoured it more or less. It just hooked me right from the start and it was exactly what I needed to read. I loved the vibes of the book, and in a way they also felt familiar and like coming home. Hocley romances are my first love and this book provided everything that I love about hockey romances.
I really loved Caleb and Nick. I loved Caleb's grumpyness and Nick's golden retriever ways. Despite Caleb being a big grump(or acting like it) and bringing all the snark, he loved strongly and in a quiet way that can be overlooked. I loved the fact that Nick saw how Caleb was, saw his acts of service and quiet caring personality. My heart went out to Nick, he was determined to make himself small and not be a burden, but he was a genuinely nice guy. Nick was a people pleaser, even a pushover and he controlled his emotions, but Caleb came around and shook him up. I was glad to see Caleb push Nick to speak up, speak his mind, react and not just be in his head. They were very cute and sweet together. I loved how their relationship progressed and how well they complimented each other.
I really enjoyed all of the side characters and I'm very curious who will get their own books from Camrose U.
This was a fun and easy read for me, which I enjoyed immensely. If you enjoy hockey romances and would like to read about 2 college aged hockey players roommates/teammates that go from dislike to love, have great banter and cute non dates then this is the book for you.
I received a copy of this book from the Author, and this is my honest review.
I really loved Caleb and Nick. I loved Caleb's grumpyness and Nick's golden retriever ways. Despite Caleb being a big grump(or acting like it) and bringing all the snark, he loved strongly and in a quiet way that can be overlooked. I loved the fact that Nick saw how Caleb was, saw his acts of service and quiet caring personality. My heart went out to Nick, he was determined to make himself small and not be a burden, but he was a genuinely nice guy. Nick was a people pleaser, even a pushover and he controlled his emotions, but Caleb came around and shook him up. I was glad to see Caleb push Nick to speak up, speak his mind, react and not just be in his head. They were very cute and sweet together. I loved how their relationship progressed and how well they complimented each other.
I really enjoyed all of the side characters and I'm very curious who will get their own books from Camrose U.
This was a fun and easy read for me, which I enjoyed immensely. If you enjoy hockey romances and would like to read about 2 college aged hockey players roommates/teammates that go from dislike to love, have great banter and cute non dates then this is the book for you.
I received a copy of this book from the Author, and this is my honest review.
April 14, 2025
This was such a fun book to read. Enemies to lovers, roommates, hockey teammates—right up our alley. Nick is the calm, quiet guy who tries to avoid conflict, never wants to bother anyone, and just wants to stay out of trouble. He’s the golden boy everyone likes. Then Caleb shows up—loud, confident, and always pushing Nick’s buttons on purpose. He seems to enjoy every little jab he can throw, and it drives Nick crazy in the best way.
We loved how their relationship grew naturally over time. At first, it’s all teasing and annoyance, but the shift is so subtle they barely notice it happening. Before they even talk about it, they’re already acting like a couple. That slow build made their connection feel real. Their dynamic was so entertaining—especially the way Caleb kept challenging Nick and trying to break through that calm surface.
Nick’s inner struggles made his character feel more layered. He sees himself as a burden, always saying sorry, always holding back. Caleb gets frustrated with that at first but slowly learns to understand him better. He helps Nick come out of his shell, and in return, Nick gives Caleb a kind of peace he didn’t know he needed. Caleb might seem like the tough one, but once he lets his guard down, you really see how much he cares.
The supporting characters were also great. Nick’s dad and stepmom were kind and supportive, and Caleb’s relationship with his mom and sister brought warmth to the story. It was nice to see that both boys had people in their lives who loved them, even if things weren’t always perfect.
We’re already excited for the rest of the series. Rhys and Isaac? Schultz and Maddox? We’re in. The world Maia Kinley created is one we’re happy to stay in for a while.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🅟🅘🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶�
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔
🏒Ѳ
🏒Rivals to Teammates
🏒-ɲԾԲ
🏒Ǵdzٱ
🏒DZ
🏒dz
We loved how their relationship grew naturally over time. At first, it’s all teasing and annoyance, but the shift is so subtle they barely notice it happening. Before they even talk about it, they’re already acting like a couple. That slow build made their connection feel real. Their dynamic was so entertaining—especially the way Caleb kept challenging Nick and trying to break through that calm surface.
Nick’s inner struggles made his character feel more layered. He sees himself as a burden, always saying sorry, always holding back. Caleb gets frustrated with that at first but slowly learns to understand him better. He helps Nick come out of his shell, and in return, Nick gives Caleb a kind of peace he didn’t know he needed. Caleb might seem like the tough one, but once he lets his guard down, you really see how much he cares.
The supporting characters were also great. Nick’s dad and stepmom were kind and supportive, and Caleb’s relationship with his mom and sister brought warmth to the story. It was nice to see that both boys had people in their lives who loved them, even if things weren’t always perfect.
We’re already excited for the rest of the series. Rhys and Isaac? Schultz and Maddox? We’re in. The world Maia Kinley created is one we’re happy to stay in for a while.
🅡🅐🅣🅘🅝
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🅟🅘🅔
🌶️🌶️🌶�
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔
🏒Ѳ
🏒Rivals to Teammates
🏒-ɲԾԲ
🏒Ǵdzٱ
🏒DZ
🏒dz
March 11, 2025
5 stars
This was my first book by Maia Kinley and I loved it!
Zone Entry is a low angst love story between two hockey players in their senior year of college, who unexpectedly become teammates and roommates. Their animosity turns into a sort of friendship and then love.
Caleb is such a sweet guy under his arrogant exterior, he adores his family and his best friend, even if he hides his love behind sarcasm and huffiness.
Nick is adorable and shy, he was confused by his new feelings toward Caleb, but he was very brave and never denied his affection.
Nick personal history and his difficulties to speak up for himself don't make him the most talkative guy and that cause tension between him and Caleb. But even with the lack of communication, they still find their way towards each other.
I really liked the slow burn: Nick's sexual awakening is slow and unsure and initially their relationship is more focused on them being friends. The physical side is not rushed and that let them enjoy their closeness by being cuddling and affectionate too. Their relationship was very tender: there are very steamy moments, of course, but overall the emotions play a bigger part in this book. Their first time is so very special.
The guys on the team and Maddox, Caleb's best friend, are all awesome and supportive and I can't wait to read their stories too.
Very much recommended
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
This was my first book by Maia Kinley and I loved it!
Zone Entry is a low angst love story between two hockey players in their senior year of college, who unexpectedly become teammates and roommates. Their animosity turns into a sort of friendship and then love.
Caleb is such a sweet guy under his arrogant exterior, he adores his family and his best friend, even if he hides his love behind sarcasm and huffiness.
Nick is adorable and shy, he was confused by his new feelings toward Caleb, but he was very brave and never denied his affection.
Nick personal history and his difficulties to speak up for himself don't make him the most talkative guy and that cause tension between him and Caleb. But even with the lack of communication, they still find their way towards each other.
I really liked the slow burn: Nick's sexual awakening is slow and unsure and initially their relationship is more focused on them being friends. The physical side is not rushed and that let them enjoy their closeness by being cuddling and affectionate too. Their relationship was very tender: there are very steamy moments, of course, but overall the emotions play a bigger part in this book. Their first time is so very special.
The guys on the team and Maddox, Caleb's best friend, are all awesome and supportive and I can't wait to read their stories too.
Very much recommended
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
March 9, 2025
Okay, hear me out. I've had one of the best reading experiences of my life reading CU Hockey by Eden Finley and Saxon James for the first time, and it was so good and I grew to love the setting so much, I felt like someone broke up with me once I finished the series. I've reread it several times since then, of course, but the feeling was unmatched.
And this book creates the same homey feeling CU Hockey has. I usually don't like to compare books by different authors with each other, but reading Zone Entry felt so similar (not storywise, it's not at all close to any of the CU books, just from the setting), I had to say that.
Caleb and Nick are hockey players on rivalling college teams, until Caleb switches schools and joins Nick's team. Grumpy Caleb hates that Nick's such a perfect and happy, always friendly guy who seems to have everything, so his animosity is growing. Their game together is a mess and - worst of all, they have to share a dorm room, so they can't even get away from each other outside of practice. It's very much black cat x golden retriever, features a queer awakening I really liked and touches deeper topics. I loved the side characters, especially the MCs' families and their team members, and I'm so looking forward to this vibe continuing!
And this book creates the same homey feeling CU Hockey has. I usually don't like to compare books by different authors with each other, but reading Zone Entry felt so similar (not storywise, it's not at all close to any of the CU books, just from the setting), I had to say that.
Caleb and Nick are hockey players on rivalling college teams, until Caleb switches schools and joins Nick's team. Grumpy Caleb hates that Nick's such a perfect and happy, always friendly guy who seems to have everything, so his animosity is growing. Their game together is a mess and - worst of all, they have to share a dorm room, so they can't even get away from each other outside of practice. It's very much black cat x golden retriever, features a queer awakening I really liked and touches deeper topics. I loved the side characters, especially the MCs' families and their team members, and I'm so looking forward to this vibe continuing!
March 10, 2025
I could not put this down. Literally read half of it in one sitting. Would’ve read more if I didn’t have to charge my phone. Two books and I’m entirely hooked on Maia Kinley’s writing.
Caleb and Nick had such delicious tension between them. They both got under each other’s skin, leading to some hilarious and steamy moments.
Caleb was such a menace. And I loved every bit of him being one. He was completely unashamed, which had me laughing so many times. My heart broke for Nick a few times as we got a look behind his sunny persona. There was such wonderful depth to his character. Caleb was just who he needed.
Maia Kinley creates amazing side characters as well, ones with just as much depth and layers as the main ones. She’s got me craving their stories with a vengeance. The little teasers of couples to come has me so excited.
If you want to laugh until your side hurts, cry from some emotional pain, and fall in love with some amazing characters then this is the book and author for you.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
Caleb and Nick had such delicious tension between them. They both got under each other’s skin, leading to some hilarious and steamy moments.
Caleb was such a menace. And I loved every bit of him being one. He was completely unashamed, which had me laughing so many times. My heart broke for Nick a few times as we got a look behind his sunny persona. There was such wonderful depth to his character. Caleb was just who he needed.
Maia Kinley creates amazing side characters as well, ones with just as much depth and layers as the main ones. She’s got me craving their stories with a vengeance. The little teasers of couples to come has me so excited.
If you want to laugh until your side hurts, cry from some emotional pain, and fall in love with some amazing characters then this is the book and author for you.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
March 23, 2025
*I received an ARC copy of this book and this review is my honest opinion*(no spoilers?)
Book:- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:- 🌶🌶.5
Tropes:-
🏒 Hockey romance/teammates
🏒 Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒-ɲԾԲ
🏒Ǵdzٷɲ
🏒 Dislike-to-love
🏒 Forced Proximity
"Fuck. I was wrong. He’s not a fake-ass golden boy. No� Nick Sandoval’s a fucking doormat."
This was a cute, low angst dislike-to-love book between two hockey teammates. Though, the dislike portion of the didn't last as long as I personally like, I still enjoyed the dynamic. It was my first read by this author, and the start of a new series and I really enjoyed it. It isn't anything super different from other similar books but I really enjoyed this author's take on the college/hockey college romance and I did really like the relationship between Caleb and Nick. There was enough hockey in this that it didn't feel like the sport aspect had been forgotten/pushed aside as can happen in some sports romances.
The two slowly opened up to each other, especially when it came to Nick, and I loved how supportive they were of one another. Plus their banter was A+. I absolutely adore a grumpy character with a secretly soft inside. Especially when it comes to the other MMC. I liked the journey Nick went on throughout the book especially and how much Caleb helped him grow/develop.
My only criticism is that is felt lacking at times with some of their relationships with some of the supporting characters and that these could have been further developed - for example Caleb/his sister or Nick and his stepmother - but that didn't detract away from the story too much.
The friends/supporting characters at the college were well integrated though there was alot of set up for future books/relationships. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and it was edited/written well.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book for fans of rivals to lovers/hockey teammates who are looking for a cute, low angst book with a HEA.
“You’re so fucking irritating,� Caleb hisses between kisses. “I don’t know if I want to knock you out or fuck you.�
Book:- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:- 🌶🌶.5
Tropes:-
🏒 Hockey romance/teammates
🏒 Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒-ɲԾԲ
🏒Ǵdzٷɲ
🏒 Dislike-to-love
🏒 Forced Proximity
"Fuck. I was wrong. He’s not a fake-ass golden boy. No� Nick Sandoval’s a fucking doormat."
This was a cute, low angst dislike-to-love book between two hockey teammates. Though, the dislike portion of the didn't last as long as I personally like, I still enjoyed the dynamic. It was my first read by this author, and the start of a new series and I really enjoyed it. It isn't anything super different from other similar books but I really enjoyed this author's take on the college/hockey college romance and I did really like the relationship between Caleb and Nick. There was enough hockey in this that it didn't feel like the sport aspect had been forgotten/pushed aside as can happen in some sports romances.
The two slowly opened up to each other, especially when it came to Nick, and I loved how supportive they were of one another. Plus their banter was A+. I absolutely adore a grumpy character with a secretly soft inside. Especially when it comes to the other MMC. I liked the journey Nick went on throughout the book especially and how much Caleb helped him grow/develop.
My only criticism is that is felt lacking at times with some of their relationships with some of the supporting characters and that these could have been further developed - for example Caleb/his sister or Nick and his stepmother - but that didn't detract away from the story too much.
The friends/supporting characters at the college were well integrated though there was alot of set up for future books/relationships. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and it was edited/written well.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book for fans of rivals to lovers/hockey teammates who are looking for a cute, low angst book with a HEA.
“You’re so fucking irritating,� Caleb hisses between kisses. “I don’t know if I want to knock you out or fuck you.�
March 10, 2025
✍️ 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾 ✍️
“ZONE ENTRY� MAIA KINLEY ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶�/5
Scorrete le slide👉🏻
Che bellissima sorpresa questo libro!
Caleb e Nick sono compagni di squadra nell'ultimo anno di hockey al college, ma la loro convivenza fuori dal ghiaccio non è tutto oro quel che luccica.
Caleb trova insopportabile l'atteggiamento di Nick, sempre perfetto e sorridente davanti agli altri. Mentre tutti sembrano apprezzarlo, lui è l'unico che non riesce a sopportare quella facciata da golden boy con il sorriso onnipresente. Condividere la stanza rende la situazione ancora più difficile.
Nick è abituato a mantenere il controllo in ogni situazione, sia dentro che fuori dal ghiaccio. Non ama attirare l'attenzione e cerca di evitare i conflitti. Tuttavia, la presenza di Caleb rende questo equilibrio sempre più instabile. La tensione tra loro cresce, sia in campo che nella vita quotidiana.
Più Caleb provoca Nick, più emergono lati di lui che nessun altro ha mai visto. E, con il tempo, entrambi iniziano a mettere in discussione i propri sentimenti e ciò che davvero vogliono.
Mi ci voleva proprio qualcosa con pochissimo angst, quasi nullo, e di estremamente non-complicato.
“Zone entry� è il perfetto palate cleanser, ma mi dispiace anche etichettarlo così, è molto di più. Però se siete abituati a leggere dark molto forti, o comunque libri ad altissimo tasso di angst, questo è il libro che fa per voi se volete qualcosa che faccia da ponte tra un libro e l’altro.
Però ripeto, è molto di più.
La storia tra Caleb e Nick è così genuina e potente da essere comunque in qualche modo indimenticabile.
Ho amato questi due personaggi, sia nei loro pregi che nei loro difetti, sono così reali. Ho amato, amato e amato. Non c’� una singola cosa negativa che ho da dire su questo libro, davvero. Quindi la recensione per me può finire anche qui perché finché campo lo consiglierò all’infinito.
Anche se non l’ho messo tra i trope, sappiate che c’� un bi-awakening, e sapete quanto amo il bi-awakening.
Proteggete questi due a tutti i costi. Mi è piaciuta tantissimo la relazione che si viene a creare. Caleb e Nick sono esattamente agli antipodi, non potrebbero essere più diversi, eppure si incastrano perfettamente e funzionano benissimo insieme.
Non vedo l’ora di leggere gli altri libri, Maia ci ha dato degli ottimi inizi e davvero, non vedo l’ora.
Ha senso questa recensione? Forse no, ma mi è piaciuto troppo. Penso conti più di ogni altra parola.
“ZONE ENTRY� MAIA KINLEY ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶�/5
Scorrete le slide👉🏻
Che bellissima sorpresa questo libro!
Caleb e Nick sono compagni di squadra nell'ultimo anno di hockey al college, ma la loro convivenza fuori dal ghiaccio non è tutto oro quel che luccica.
Caleb trova insopportabile l'atteggiamento di Nick, sempre perfetto e sorridente davanti agli altri. Mentre tutti sembrano apprezzarlo, lui è l'unico che non riesce a sopportare quella facciata da golden boy con il sorriso onnipresente. Condividere la stanza rende la situazione ancora più difficile.
Nick è abituato a mantenere il controllo in ogni situazione, sia dentro che fuori dal ghiaccio. Non ama attirare l'attenzione e cerca di evitare i conflitti. Tuttavia, la presenza di Caleb rende questo equilibrio sempre più instabile. La tensione tra loro cresce, sia in campo che nella vita quotidiana.
Più Caleb provoca Nick, più emergono lati di lui che nessun altro ha mai visto. E, con il tempo, entrambi iniziano a mettere in discussione i propri sentimenti e ciò che davvero vogliono.
Mi ci voleva proprio qualcosa con pochissimo angst, quasi nullo, e di estremamente non-complicato.
“Zone entry� è il perfetto palate cleanser, ma mi dispiace anche etichettarlo così, è molto di più. Però se siete abituati a leggere dark molto forti, o comunque libri ad altissimo tasso di angst, questo è il libro che fa per voi se volete qualcosa che faccia da ponte tra un libro e l’altro.
Però ripeto, è molto di più.
La storia tra Caleb e Nick è così genuina e potente da essere comunque in qualche modo indimenticabile.
Ho amato questi due personaggi, sia nei loro pregi che nei loro difetti, sono così reali. Ho amato, amato e amato. Non c’� una singola cosa negativa che ho da dire su questo libro, davvero. Quindi la recensione per me può finire anche qui perché finché campo lo consiglierò all’infinito.
Anche se non l’ho messo tra i trope, sappiate che c’� un bi-awakening, e sapete quanto amo il bi-awakening.
Proteggete questi due a tutti i costi. Mi è piaciuta tantissimo la relazione che si viene a creare. Caleb e Nick sono esattamente agli antipodi, non potrebbero essere più diversi, eppure si incastrano perfettamente e funzionano benissimo insieme.
Non vedo l’ora di leggere gli altri libri, Maia ci ha dato degli ottimi inizi e davvero, non vedo l’ora.
Ha senso questa recensione? Forse no, ma mi è piaciuto troppo. Penso conti più di ogni altra parola.
March 10, 2025
I’ll be honest, the only reason I didn’t DNF is because it’s an ARC. This was a lot of telling and not enough showing. I didn’t vibe with the writing, and not even a few instances of “good boy� could save it for me. Ultimately, I won’t go further with the series or author, but if you like MM hockey romances, you may like this. I just couldn’t get over how much of a doormat Nick was. He even admits it. And he’s not even living the choices others want for him; he’s living the choices he THINKS others want for him. He never stood up for what he wanted, and the other MC (whose name I’ve already forgotten 😬) was justified in getting angry with him for it.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review is entirely my own.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review is entirely my own.
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