Chris Savage’s Hat Trick is a compelling addition to the MM romance genre, weaving a tale of unrequited love, personal growth, and the courage to embrace vulnerability. Set against the backdrop of professional hockey, this novel is the third installment in the Power Play series, yet it stands firmly on its own, inviting readers into a world where the ice is not the only thing that’s cold and hard to navigate.
At the heart of Hat Trick is Jonah Park, the Atlanta Reapers’ center, whose life is a delicate balance of humor and solitude. Jonah is a character that readers will find both relatable and endearing. He is the quintessential “good guy,” the kind of person who puts others first, often at the expense of his own happiness. His guest room, meticulously prepared for a man who has never stayed there, is a testament to his long-standing affection for Ren Briggs, his best friend’s younger brother. This unrequited love, simmering for a decade, forms the emotional core of the novel.
Ren Briggs, on the other hand, is a character marked by resilience and introspection. A former AHL player whose career ended prematurely, Ren is in the process of rebuilding his life. His move to Atlanta and into Jonah’s guest room is not just a physical relocation but a symbolic step towards healing and self-discovery. Ren’s character arc is one of the most compelling aspects of the novel, as it explores themes of identity, ambition, and the courage to confront one’s past.
The dynamic between Jonah and Ren is beautifully crafted, with Savage skillfully navigating the complexities of their relationship. The tension between them is palpable, a mix of unspoken desires and shared history that makes every interaction charged with meaning. The novel’s dual POV structure allows readers to delve into the minds of both protagonists, offering a nuanced understanding of their fears, hopes, and the secrets they carry. This narrative choice enriches the story, providing depth and emotional resonance that elevate the romance beyond mere trope.
One of the standout elements of Hat Trick is its exploration of the theme of found family. Both Jonah and Ren are characters who have experienced isolation in different forms, and their journey towards each other is also a journey towards building a community where they feel truly seen and accepted. The supporting characters, including Jonah’s teammates and Ren’s brother Cole, add layers to this theme, illustrating the importance of support systems and the families we choose.
The novel also delves into the concept of pining and the bittersweet nature of unrequited love. Jonah’s decade-long affection for Ren is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, capturing the longing and heartache that accompany such feelings. The $34.99 lamp, a seemingly mundane object, becomes a poignant symbol of Jonah’s love—a love that is patient, enduring, and quietly hopeful. This attention to detail is a testament to Savage’s ability to infuse ordinary moments with extraordinary significance.
In terms of its place within the MM romance genre, Hat Trick stands out for its mature handling of complex emotions and its focus on character development. While it shares common tropes with other works—such as the “best friend’s brother” and “roommates to lovers” dynamics—it distinguishes itself through its emphasis on personal growth and the courage to embrace vulnerability. Fans of authors like Sarina Bowen and Avon Gale, who also explore the intersection of sports and romance, will find much to appreciate in Savage’s nuanced storytelling.
Moreover, the novel’s setting in the world of professional hockey adds an additional layer of intrigue. The sport serves as both a backdrop and a metaphor for the characters’ struggles and triumphs, with the concept of a “hat trick” cleverly woven into the narrative. The idea of needing three goals to achieve a hat trick parallels Jonah’s journey, where he must take three significant risks to achieve his own personal victory.
Ultimately, Hat Trick is a story about the power of love to transform and heal. It is about the risks we take for the people we care about and the courage it takes to reveal our true selves. The novel’s conclusion, a satisfying HEA, reaffirms the idea that some things are indeed worth the wait.
In conclusion, Chris Savage’s Hat Trick is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel that will appeal to fans of MM romance and beyond. Its rich character development, exploration of meaningful themes, and engaging narrative make it a standout read. Whether you are new to the Power Play series or a returning reader, this book offers a heartfelt and rewarding experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.
