Title: Common Goal
Author: Rachel Reid
First published September 21, 2020
333 pages, ebook
ISBN: 9781488076855 (ISBN10: 1488076855)
Rating: 3.8
Overview
Eric Bennett, a veteran goaltender for the New York Admirals, has always been in control on the ice. But when it comes to his personal life, Eric feels lost.
After retiring from hockey, he decides to dive into the world of dating for the first time, but quickly finds himself struggling to connect with anyone. That is, until he meets Kyle Swift, a charming and much-younger graduate student who’s nursing a broken heart.
Kyle is everything Eric never knew he wanted, but there’s one problem – Kyle has no intention of letting himself fall for Eric.
Despite their mutual attraction, Kyle and Eric agree to keep things casual. But as their friends-with-benefits arrangement continues, both men start to realize that they want something more.
With everything they’ve ever wanted within reach, Eric and Kyle must decide whether to take a chance on love, or risk losing each other forever. Will they be brave enough to go after their happy ever after, or will fear hold them back?
Find out in Rachel Reid’s steamy romance novel, Common Goal.
About the Author
Meet Rachel Reid, the pen name of the talented author Rachelle Goguen. She opted for this name because it’s simpler to pronounce, spell, and recall than her actual name.
Rachel’s stories are filled with adorable, steamy romance and often feature hockey players as the main characters. You can find her Game Changers m/m hockey romance series on Carina Press.
Hailing from the stunning province of Nova Scotia, Canada, Rachel/Rachelle has been a lifelong resident and plans to stay that way. She holds two unexciting degrees and has two fascinating children.
Editoral Review
Common Goal by Rachel Reid is a captivating and emotional LGBT romance novel that will leave readers eager for more. Reid, a former professional figure skater turned writer, has established herself as a prolific author in the genre of LGBT romance, and this book showcases her talent for delivering compelling stories with complex characters.
The book takes place in the world of professional ice hockey, introducing readers to two main characters: goalie Eric Wennington and forward Kyle Swift. Eric is a reserved and dedicated athlete who has spent most of his life on the ice.
Kyle is a charming and confident player who is recovering from a devastating injury. When Eric and Kyle cross paths, both men find unexpected comfort and connection in each other, despite their different backgrounds and personalities.
One of the strengths of Common Goal is the way that Reid manages to depict the challenges and dilemmas that face LGBT athletes in a predominantly heterosexual sport. The tension between Eric and Kyle is not just about their attraction to each other, but about the conflicts that arise when they are forced to confront their own fears and prejudices in a competitive and high-pressure environment.
The novel does not shy away from depicting the realities of homophobia and discrimination in sports, but it also shows the resilience and courage of those who are willing to challenge the status quo. The prose in Common Goal is elegant and lyrical, creating a sense of intimacy and intensity that draws the reader into the world of the characters.
Reid’s descriptions of the sport of ice hockey are immersive and detailed, capturing the physical and emotional demands it places on the players. The character development is also a highlight of the novel, as Eric and Kyle are depicted with nuance and depth.
Both characters have complex backstories and personal struggles that give them a depth and authenticity that is often lacking in romance novels. One of the limitations of the novel is that it can be slow and meandering at times, particularly in the middle section where the focus shifts away from the romance and towards Eric’s family drama.
While this subplot is necessary for Eric’s character development, it can feel somewhat disconnected from the central romance and may test the patience of some readers. Overall, Common Goal is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant LGBT romance novel that is sure to capture the hearts of readers.
While it has its flaws, it is ultimately a testament to the power of love and acceptance in a world that can be harsh and unforgiving. Recommended for fans of LGBT romance, sports fiction, and anyone who loves a good love story.
Rating: 4/5 stars.