Hidden Scars

Conflicted about this. On one hand, it seems like a dark romance, which is really hard to pull off imo when both MCs are 21. On the other, it sort of reads like a very tortured kid who has grown up on pain and that's all he knows and that seeps into his personal life.
Also, I felt like there wasn't much build up for the romance. Seems like hate fucking that suddenly veers into one realizing he's in love. Nonetheless, I liked reading the book. Didn't love the violent scenes,but that's more about personal preference than any shortcoming on the side of the book itself.
Would read more by this author. I liked their writing style and found many bits hilarious. Specifically book two, whose MCs were introduced in this one.

Rating:
3.5 ⭐
Rounded down to 3

Summary:
Top-tier hockey jock Preston is forced to switch schools. At his new school, he is forced to room with his teammate, Jeremy. Preston has been abused by his father for years, which causes him to shut everyone out and live a life devoid of love and of anything other than hockey, the gym, and sleeping. Jeremy begins to find cracks in Preston's cold mask that he uses to shut out everyone, and is able to see a side of Preston that others cannot. The two find love in each other and Preston's father gets what he deserves.

Review:
I mostly skimmed the parts about hockey (I know and care very little about the sport), but I enjoyed the book for the most part. Preston was incredibly unlikable in the beginning. I understand that it's due to the abuse and everything, but it was a little too unrealistic–growling at literally everything everyone said or did. His change was sweet, but it did seem a bit quick to me. Otherwise, I enjoyed the book. I liked the love and warmth that Preston felt from Jeremy's family.