The Way Back by Carter Quinn

Title:  The Way Back
Author:  Carter Quinn
Genre:  Contemporary M/M romance
Length:  Novel 200 pages
Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press (June 11, 2012)
Heat Level:  Explicit
Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts -Loved it!
Product link:    http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2956
Blurb:  In freshman year, Riley Evans met the best friends he ever thought he’d have, Jason and Eric. But then his friendship with Eric turned into something much more. That relationship ended almost as soon as it began, and Riley hasn’t let anyone near his heart since. Until now.
When Riley needed him most, Jason helped pick up the pieces. Six years later, he’s once again part of Riley’s life. Riley is slowly letting Jason past his defenses and is starting to see how good they are together. They’re even planning a romantic weekend getaway. Then, out of the blue, Eric calls, claiming he wants Riley back.

Riley has been dreaming about Eric for six years, but suddenly he can’t he stop thinking of Jason. Jason, who has always been there when Riley needs him—who puts Riley’s happiness above his own, even if that means his own heart will suffer. Jason insists Riley face his old feelings for Eric to make sure they’re really gone. But are they? If Riley can’t learn from his mistakes, he may be destined to repeat them—and Jason won’t wait forever.(less)
Reviewer: Showme
Review:  Let’s just start by saying Carter Quinn had me as a fan the minute he wrote about two men who love hockey falling in love. Swoon! So I was already looking for other books by him when I saw the beautiful cover for The Way Back.

Riley met Jason and Eric his Freshman year of college. The three immediately hit it off and became close friends. It didn’t take long for Riley to realize he wanted Eric. Bad. The two start a secret love affair that ends in Eric breaking Riley’s heart. Jason tries to help Riley through the pain, but the hurt is too much and Riley swears he will never fall in love again.

Six years later Riley runs into Jason and the sparks fly. Jason is practically perfect in boyfriend standards but Riley can’t get Eric out of his head. He still secretly pines over the one that got away. Or in this case, stomped on his heart and left him a blubbering mess of the man he was. Everyone around Jason and Riley can see that Jason is in love with Riley and the two make a wonderful couple. Riley is as happy as he’s ever been in a relationship so maybe he is falling for Jason?

Then out of nowhere Riley gets a call from Eric. It, of course, stirs up all kinds of trouble and Jason decides he doesn’t want to be Riley’s second choice if he still loves Eric. Doesn’t want to spend the rest of his life with a man who will always wonder what if his first love didn’t leave. So he practically shoves Riley at Eric. Riley fights it at first. He’s hurt that Jason wants him to see if there is still something there between Eric and himself. Of course, it’s not that simple. Did anyone think it would be? I won’t spoil the rest, but a love triangle begins and the angst is amped up!

Carter manages to make me fall for the guys despite wanting to smack them all at some point. Mainly Riley. I think Carter giving him very funny inner monologues was clever in keeping me on the pro Riley side throughout the book. The intimacy between Jason and Riley was beautiful. I like to visualize the connection between the main characters with the little details. Not just be told by the author. I could feel the passion between Riley and Jason. I could feel the longing between Eric and Riley. I hate love triangles, but couldn’t put this book down.

So, now I’m left waiting as patiently as possible for more from Carter Quinn. Maybe a story from the guy who didn’t get the guy? (hint, hint 😉 )