Coach's Challenge (Cayuga Cougars #3) by V.L. Locey

Coach's Challenge is the third book in the Cayuga Cougars series by V.L. Locey, and the focus is once again on Victor Kalinski. He is now retired from playing hockey but remains with the team as their coach. His relationship with fellow player Dan Arou, is seemingly at a high point now that they are married and co-parenting Vic's son, Jack. Vic has maintained his sobriety and is attending regular session with his therapist to work through his child abuse/abandonment issues. Life is good for the Arou-Kalinskis, but inevitably things change and their stability is challenged by two new characters who threaten to put a kink int their otherwise settled routine. 

 

Firstly, an old boyfriend of Dan's shows up as a new player on the team. Sander is a hotshot; gorgeous looking and Vic sees him as a threat to his relationship with Dan. Especially when the real truth of their relationship comes out. VI and Dan go through some trying times while Vic questions everything he though he knew about his husband. 

 

Secondly, Victor's father turns up at their house, which does not go well. The story examines their non-existent relationship and we see whether there is a chance it can be salvaged. 

 

Many of the past characters from the other two books feature throughout and it's great to meet them again. The familiarity lends itself to the storyline particularly and relays just how far Victor has come in terms of trust and affection; both given and received. 

 

The story is told by Victor, and honestly, for me, this is one of the most endearing factors of the book. His 'voice' is hilarious at times. He certainly doesn't hold back and his eloquence is so refreshing. He tells it like it is and at times his honestly and vulnerability is quite raw. And of course, his love for Dan Arou is quite spectacular. The way he speaks about his husband and the desperate need he has for him is beautiful. And then there is the sex - off the scales hot. 

 

I loved this latest book in the Cayuga Cougars series and can't wait for the next one. 

5 stars