Most readers on Goodreads and romance blogs rate this a solid 4 stars. It’s "fun, sweet, sexy, and heartfelt". While the "straight-to-gay" transition can sometimes feel rushed in the genre, Finley’s trademark humor and the characters' genuine friendship make the journey feel earned.
The story introduces us to , a college hockey player who has recently come out but is struggling with the execution part of his new identity. He’s eager—perhaps too eager—and his "oversharing and boundary crossing" tendency tends to scare off potential hookups. Determined to lose his virginity by his 22nd birthday, Whit finds himself at V&V, where he encounters Rainn , the resident "grumpy" bartender. Headstrong by Eden Finley
If you enjoy , Headstrong is a must-read for your TBR list. Most readers on Goodreads and romance blogs rate
Despite his rambling and lack of filter, Whit is described as having a "wholesome winsome charm" that eventually wears down Rainn’s defenses. The "Vino & Veritas" Connection The story introduces us to , a college
Rainn is a former NHL prospect whose career was cut short by a devastating injury. Because of this, he has a deep-seated hatred for anything related to hockey. Despite his initial urge to run the other way when he realizes Whit is a hockey player, Rainn finds himself feeling sorry for the guy’s disastrous flirting attempts and agrees to act as his wingman. Why It Works: Sunshine meets Grumpy (with a Twist)