The Shots You Take

For this homey queer romance, Reid (the Game Changer series) sends retired Toronto pro hockey star Adam Sheppard to Nova Scotia to attend his former teammate Riley Tuck’s father’s funeral—but his real purpose is to “fix” Riley’s broken heart. Seventeen years ago, when they were roommates and lovers, closeted Adam made it clear that “he’d never feel the same way as Riley did.” Now divorced from his wife and out as gay to his friends and family, Adam hopes to win back the one who got away. As Adam works his way back into Riley’s life by helping out at the sporting goods store Riley inherited, Riley invites Adam to stay with him. The guys grow closer, taking another shot at romance and hoping that “maybe this time it could be wonderful, instead of devastating.” Reid peppers her hopeful story with cozy scenes, such as a trip to a farmer’s market and dinner with Riley’s queer friends. These moments show Adam becoming more comfortable with being gay and finding the courage to come out publicly. Even more swoon inducing is the work Adam puts in to mending the hurt he caused Riley in the past. These two are sure to win fans. (Mar.)