Emmett “Coop” Cooper is the star captain of the Boston Bruins. But off the bench, he’s hiding a secret that could jeopardize everything he’s worked for. As a gay man and a virgin, he’s chosen to live his life in the closet, afraid of how the hockey world might react. However, one night, while visiting family out of town, everything changes when he meets a guy at a bar with a captivating smile he can’t ignore. Ford Mahoney is a recent college graduate with a haunted past. After destroying his relationship with a fellow student, he escapes from Boston after graduation to mend his broken heart. A chance encounter with a famous hockey player sparks hope of a fresh start, but when Ford learns Coop is friends with his ex’s new man, he keeps Coop in the dark, leaving the fate of their relationship on thin ice. With secrets buried deep, the excitement of a steamy summer fling provides a welcome distraction. But once they’re back home, Ford is forced to come clean, leaving him to wonder if he’ll ever break free from the chains of his past. And with a broken heart, Coop questions if love is worth the pain. But maybe it’s true that time heals all wounds. Hooking the Captain is book one in the Off the Bench Duet. Coop and Ford’s story concludes in Retaking the Shot.