[ARC Review] Tricked at Sea by Duckie Mack

Publisher's synopsis: Liam has always had a vision for what his life would be. A dream job as the town veterinarian- check. A long-term boyfriend- check. A bucket list cruise planned- check. But a bad breakup leaves him reeling.

Trick is Liam’s opposite in every way. He’s a free spirit, he doesn’t do relationships, and is not a fan of animals. But he and Liam have been inseparable since high school.

When Liam decides he’s not going to let his heartbreak ruin his dream trip, he invites his best friend along for the ride. Trick agrees with one goal in mind- to get Liam laid and over his ex.

As rebound attempts fail, maybe it’s not a random hook-up that Liam needs. What if it’s the person who’s been by his side the entire time?  

My thoughts: There's truly something to be said for a no muss, no fuss romance. Duckie leaves the drama behind in this novella, taking readers to the high seas as our main characters discover their friendship goes deeper than either realized was possible on an unforgettable Caribbean adventure. 

Liam and Trick were such sweethearts. I immediately felt for Liam; going through a breakup is never fun. But luckily for both Liam and the reader, his long-time friend Trick is always by his side, willing to drop everything if it means supporting his friend. 

At less than 100 pages, Tricked at Sea didn't take long to get the plot moving. Both guys quickly realized their friendship goes deeper than previously acknowledged, and sharing a bed in their cruise cabin suddenly becomes less of a hinderance. 

I thought Duckie did a wonderful job at balancing romance and plot. Liam and Trick didn't seem rushed in these pages; their progression from best friends to lovers was the epitome of natural. But Tricked at Sea wasn't just a quick romance, either. Duckie managed to get a good amount of cruise antics in as well. These breaks in the flirtation truly showcased who Liam and Trick were as characters. 

Tricked at Sea featured adventure and exploration, both in regards to the cruise and to Liam and Trick's relationship. I loved the balance between cruise activities and character growth, especially considering the novella's length. If you're looking for a short MM romance that balances both plot and romance, look no further than Trick and Liam's standalone novella. 

[Thank you to Duckie Mack for providing a review copy of this novella. All opinions are my own.]

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Release date: 6/24/23

Format: eARC

eARC provided via: the author