Hockey with Benefits Has Strings Attached After All

The blurb for “Hockey with Benefits” says “…No feelings… Just benefits. No strings attached. Nothing else. Not even friendship.” That is, until it became complicated that Cruz and Mara, the main protagonists, had to face the truth about their relationship.

A standalone book, “Hockey with Benefits” is part of the Fallen Crest universe. Mara, who was a secondary character in “Rick Prick”  now has her own book, which rightfully and thankfully explains her actions in “Rich Prick.” But you don’t need to read it to enjoy “Hockey with Benefits.” It will just another layer on Mara’s very complex character.

Both Mara and Cruz carry a lot of baggage for college students. The situations at their homes are entirely different but serious enough that going into a sexual relationship without even friendship was the only they could offer each other.

As the semester progressed, as Mara and Cruz hooked up more often, feelings started to develop. That would have been perfect, right? Not for Mara though. Her balancing act was on a razor blade and any false move could literally mean her death socially if her past caught up with her.

As for Cruz, he must continue to do well in hockey to keep his scholarship and to ensure that his family is well provided for.

Mara and Cruz look like they are ill-starred lovers with all the obstacles already thrown this way. But this is Tijan, so there were so many twists and turns in the story. It’s never a straight line with Tijan, that’s why her stories are so enjoyable. We just don’t know what to expect! But don’t worry, Mara and Cruz got their happily ever after. They worked hard to get there, that’s why their victory is so sweet!

For audiobook lovers, Connor Crais and Desiree Ketchum voiced Cruz and Mara beautifully. The angst, the caring and the insecurities of young college students were all there. That said, it would have been perfect if it was a duet! I really hope that more authors opt for duets because hearing the same voice for the characters makes it more “cinematic” in a manner of speaking.