Plot Summary
Rain, Roommates, and First Impressions
Zeke, cold and soaked, arrives at Carter Morgan III's house, hoping to secure a place to live. The meeting is awkward—Carter is nothing like Zeke expected: tattooed, blunt, and intimidating. Yet, Carter surprises Zeke by offering him the room for just utilities, revealing a complicated relationship with his wealthy family. Their first encounter is a clash of personalities, but necessity and a strange sense of possibility keep Zeke from walking away. The rain outside mirrors Zeke's uncertainty, but inside, a new chapter is about to begin, one that neither of them could have predicted.
Soup, Tattoos, and Hockey
Carter's brusque exterior softens as he offers Zeke soup and a tour of the house, including his makeshift gym. Zeke learns Carter is a hockey goalie, a detail that seems to explain his intensity. The two navigate the awkwardness of new cohabitation, with Carter's directness clashing with Zeke's politeness. Despite their differences, a tentative understanding forms. Carter's tattoos and physical presence contrast with Zeke's slight, bookish frame, but both sense the potential for something more than just a roommate arrangement.
Grandma's House and New Beginnings
Carter helps Zeke move out of his grandmother's trailer, meeting the woman who raised him. The visit is filled with warmth, love, and homemade food, highlighting the stark contrast between Zeke's humble upbringing and Carter's privileged but emotionally distant family. Carter is both charmed and unsettled by the genuine affection in Zeke's home. As they return to their new shared house, both men feel the weight of their pasts and the hope of a fresh start, even as they struggle to understand each other's worlds.
Twenty Questions and Unlikely Friendship
An evening of "twenty questions" breaks the ice between Zeke and Carter. They share favorite colors, hobbies, and personal boundaries, including Zeke's demisexuality and Carter's openness to dating men and women. The conversation is awkward but honest, laying the groundwork for trust. Both are surprised by how easy it is to talk, and a fragile friendship begins to take root. The night ends with a sense of possibility, as both realize they might have found someone who sees past their defenses.
Mini Golf and Unexpected Joy
Zeke invites Carter to play mini golf, leading to laughter, playful competition, and the first hints of real connection. Carter, usually reserved, finds himself genuinely enjoying Zeke's company, while Zeke is delighted by Carter's rare smiles. The outing is simple but meaningful, showing both men that joy can be found in unexpected places. They share food, stargaze, and make plans for future weekends, each secretly hoping this new friendship will last.
Lasagna, Study Sessions, and Growing Closer
As weeks pass, Zeke and Carter settle into a comfortable routine of shared meals, study sessions, and quiet evenings. Zeke's best friend Jefferson notices the change in him, while Carter's teammate Vasel encourages Carter to open up. The two men support each other through academic and athletic challenges, with Zeke attending Carter's hockey games and Carter helping Zeke feel at home. Their bond deepens, marked by small acts of kindness and growing trust.
First Game, First Support
Zeke attends Carter's first home hockey game, nervous but determined to support his roommate. The experience is overwhelming—loud, chaotic, and thrilling. Zeke cheers for Carter, feeling pride and excitement he never expected. Carter, in turn, is buoyed by Zeke's presence, realizing how much it means to have someone in the stands for him. The game cements their friendship, and both begin to wonder if there might be something more between them.
Zoo Day and Family Dinners
A trip to the zoo reveals Zeke's love of animals and Carter's willingness to try new things for his friend. They share facts, laughter, and quiet moments, growing more comfortable with each other's quirks. That evening, Carter joins Zeke for a family dinner at his grandmother's, experiencing the warmth and acceptance he's always craved. The contrast with his own family is stark, and Carter begins to see Zeke—and himself—in a new light.
Confessions, Boundaries, and Trust
As their friendship deepens, both men confront their fears and boundaries. Carter's casual hook-ups leave him feeling empty, while Zeke worries about not being "enough" for someone like Carter. Honest conversations about sex, attraction, and expectations bring them closer, even as they struggle with jealousy and insecurity. They agree to take things slow, prioritizing trust and emotional connection over physical intimacy.
Parties, Misunderstandings, and Second Chances
A party invitation leads to a painful misunderstanding—Carter thinks he's been asked on a date, while Zeke sees it as just another night out. Hurt feelings and awkward silences threaten to derail their budding relationship. But after a heartfelt apology and honest conversation, they agree to try again, this time with clear intentions. Their second "first date" is filled with nervous excitement and the promise of something real.
Skating Lessons and Emotional Setbacks
Carter teaches Zeke to skate, a vulnerable and intimate experience that brings them closer. But setbacks—on the ice and in life—test their resilience. Carter faces a crushing loss on the hockey rink, while Zeke struggles with academic pressures. Through it all, they support each other, finding comfort in shared vulnerability and the knowledge that they're not alone.
Christmas, Kisses, and Realizations
The holidays bring both joy and anxiety. Zeke spends Christmas with his grandmother, while Carter endures a cold, formal celebration with his family. When they reunite, a simple gift—a children's hockey book—leads to laughter, confessions, and their first real kiss. Both realize they want more, but agree to move at Zeke's pace. The new year dawns with hope and the sense that they're building something lasting.
Facing the Past, Facing the Future
Carter is forced to confront his family's expectations when he considers pursuing a professional hockey career. With Zeke's encouragement, he meets with his coach and an agent, but his father's ultimatum—give up hockey or lose financial support—throws everything into question. Zeke stands by Carter, offering practical advice and unwavering support. Together, they face the uncertainty of the future, determined to choose happiness over obligation.
The Agent, the Dream, and Parental Ultimatums
Carter's meeting with an agent reignites his passion for hockey, but his father's threat to cut him off looms large. Zeke helps Carter weigh his options, reminding him that his dreams are worth fighting for. The couple navigates the tension between ambition and security, love and fear, as they prepare for whatever comes next. Their relationship is tested, but their commitment to each other only grows stronger.
Sex, Vulnerability, and Intimacy
After months of building trust, Zeke and Carter finally take the next step in their relationship. Their first time together is tender, awkward, and deeply meaningful—marked by laughter, vulnerability, and mutual care. They navigate insecurities and fears, discovering that true intimacy is about more than just sex. The experience brings them closer, solidifying their bond and giving them the confidence to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
Family, Forgiveness, and New Support
A surprise visit from Carter's mother—prompted by his coach—leads to a breakthrough. She attends a game, sees Carter's talent firsthand, and promises to support his dreams, even convincing his father to continue paying for school. The gesture is both healing and bittersweet, as Carter realizes that love can come from unexpected places. With his family's support, Carter is free to pursue his future on his own terms.
The Big Game and New Beginnings
The hockey season ends with a big win, and Carter's future as a professional player is within reach. Zeke and Carter celebrate with friends, family, and teammates, reflecting on how far they've come. They invite new friends into their circle, support each other's ambitions, and look ahead to the next chapter. The house on Walnut Ave is no longer just a place to live—it's a home, built on love, trust, and shared dreams.
Love, Moving In, and the Call
With the school year ending, Carter asks Zeke to move in with him for good—not just as roommates, but as partners. He confesses his love, and Zeke reciprocates, both overwhelmed by how much they mean to each other. As they prepare to face the future together, Carter receives a call from his agent—his dream is within reach. Whatever happens next, they know they'll face it side by side, stronger together than they ever were alone.
Analysis
A modern queer romance about healing, hope, and the courage to choose your own pathShots on Net is more than a sports romance—it's a nuanced exploration of what it means to find home, love, and purpose in a world that often feels cold and unyielding. Through the dual journeys of Zeke and Carter, the novel interrogates the pressures of family, the scars of loneliness, and the transformative power of vulnerability. By centering consent, communication, and the slow build of trust, the story offers a refreshing alternative to traditional romance narratives. The hockey setting provides both stakes and metaphor, but the heart of the novel lies in the quiet moments: shared meals, late-night conversations, and the gradual realization that love is not about perfection, but about showing up, again and again. The book's ultimate message is one of hope—no matter your past, it is possible to build a future defined by authenticity, connection, and joy.
Review Summary
Shots on Net receives mostly positive reviews for its sweet slow-burn romance between hockey player Carter and demisexual Zeke. Readers praise the character development, communication, and low-drama plot. Many enjoy the jock/nerd and roommates-to-lovers tropes. The book is described as cute, wholesome, and a comfort read. However, some criticize the abrupt ending and lack of epilogue. Overall, it's considered a enjoyable, lighthearted romance with good demisexual representation, though a few found it boring or poorly written.
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Characters
Zeke Cassidy
Zeke is a soft-spoken, bookish junior studying physics and mathematics, raised by his loving grandmother after losing his parents young. His demisexuality shapes his cautious approach to relationships, and his humble background contrasts sharply with Carter's privilege. Zeke is empathetic, curious, and quietly resilient, often filling silences with facts or humor to ease tension. His journey is one of self-acceptance and learning to trust—first in Carter, then in himself. Through his friendship and eventual romance with Carter, Zeke discovers the power of vulnerability, the importance of chosen family, and the courage to ask for what he needs. His love is steady, patient, and transformative, helping Carter heal old wounds and believe in a future built on mutual respect and care.
Carter Morgan III
Carter is the tattooed, intimidating goalie of the SCU hockey team, the product of a wealthy but emotionally distant family. Beneath his gruff exterior lies a deep well of insecurity and longing for acceptance. Carter's life has been shaped by rigid expectations and a sense of never quite fitting in, leading him to seek solace in hockey and casual hook-ups that leave him feeling empty. Meeting Zeke challenges his assumptions about intimacy, trust, and what it means to be loved for who he is. Carter's arc is one of gradual softening—learning to express his feelings, accept support, and fight for his own dreams. His relationship with Zeke is both a lifeline and a mirror, reflecting his best qualities and helping him become the man he wants to be.
Grandma Cassidy
Zeke's grandmother is the emotional anchor of his life, providing unconditional love, stability, and a sense of home. Her kindness and acceptance extend to Carter, offering him a glimpse of the family he's always wanted. Grandma's presence is a reminder of the power of small gestures—homemade food, hugs, and gentle encouragement—to heal and nurture. She represents the best of chosen family, teaching both Zeke and Carter that love is not about blood, but about showing up for each other.
Jefferson
Jefferson is Zeke's extroverted best friend, always ready with a joke or a helping hand. His relationship with Zeke is a model of healthy friendship—supportive, honest, and occasionally exasperated by Zeke's obliviousness. Jefferson's presence provides a counterpoint to the intensity of Zeke and Carter's relationship, reminding them to laugh, take risks, and not take life too seriously. He is a bridge between worlds, helping Zeke navigate social situations and offering perspective when things get complicated.
Vasel (Henri Vasel)
Vasel is Carter's closest friend on the hockey team, a gentle giant with a strong moral compass. His quiet support and practical advice help Carter open up, both on and off the ice. Vasel's own experience as an outsider—navigating a new country and culture—mirrors Carter's sense of not belonging, making their friendship one of mutual understanding. He is instrumental in pushing Carter to pursue his dreams and take emotional risks, embodying the value of loyalty and quiet strength.
Mrs. Morgan
Carter's mother is initially portrayed as cold and detached, more concerned with appearances than emotional connection. However, as the story unfolds, she reveals unexpected depth and capacity for change. Prompted by Carter's coach, she attends a game, witnesses her son's talent, and becomes an advocate for his dreams. Her journey is one of gradual awakening—learning to see her son as he is, not as she wishes him to be. Her support, though late in coming, is a turning point for Carter, offering hope for healing old wounds.
Mr. Morgan
Carter's father embodies the pressures of legacy and expectation, insisting that Carter follow in his footsteps and dismissing hockey as a childish fantasy. His ultimatum—give up hockey or lose financial support—forces Carter to confront what he truly wants. While he remains largely unyielding, his presence is a catalyst for Carter's growth, pushing him to define himself on his own terms. Mr. Morgan represents the challenge of breaking free from the past and forging a new path.
Max Kuemper
Max is a talented hockey player who transfers to SCU, struggling to find his place on the team and in the social hierarchy. His quiet vulnerability and outsider status resonate with both Carter and Zeke, who invite him into their circle. Max's journey is one of gradual integration, learning to trust and accept friendship. He serves as a reminder that everyone is fighting their own battles, and that kindness can make all the difference.
Coach Nico Mackenzie
Coach Mackenzie is a steady presence in Carter's life, offering guidance, tough love, and unwavering support. His own experiences as a queer man in sports inform his mentorship, and he goes above and beyond to help Carter pursue his dreams. By reaching out to Carter's parents and facilitating difficult conversations, he becomes a surrogate parent, modeling what true leadership and care look like. His partnership with NHL goalie Anthony Lawson adds depth to his character, showing that happiness and success are possible, even in the face of adversity.
Anthony Lawson (Tony)
Tony, an openly gay NHL goalie and Coach Mackenzie's partner, serves as both inspiration and proof that authenticity and success can coexist. His presence in Carter's life—through advice, encouragement, and personal example—helps Carter envision a future where he can be both a professional athlete and true to himself. Tony's warmth and humor balance Coach Mackenzie's sternness, and his relationship with the coach offers hope for love that endures.
Plot Devices
Dual POV and Alternating Narration
The novel alternates between Zeke and Carter's perspectives, allowing readers to experience both the internal and external challenges each faces. This structure deepens empathy, highlights misunderstandings, and creates dramatic irony—readers often know more than the characters themselves. The dual POV is essential for exploring themes of vulnerability, trust, and the slow build of intimacy, as each man's fears and hopes are revealed in turn.
Found Family and Chosen Support
The contrast between Zeke's loving grandmother and Carter's distant parents underscores the theme of chosen family. Meals, traditions, and small acts of care become symbols of belonging and acceptance. The house on Walnut Ave transforms from a place of necessity to a true home, as friends and teammates are welcomed in. This device reinforces the idea that family is not about genetics, but about showing up for each other.
Sports as Metaphor for Growth
Hockey is more than a backdrop—it's a metaphor for risk, teamwork, and resilience. Carter's journey on the ice mirrors his emotional journey: learning to trust, to take hits and get back up, to rely on others. Zeke's gradual engagement with the sport parallels his willingness to step outside his comfort zone. The rituals of practice, games, and post-game celebrations become touchstones for personal and relational growth.
Slow Burn Romance and Consent
The romance unfolds gradually, with explicit conversations about boundaries, desires, and fears. This slow burn allows for deep character development and emphasizes the importance of consent and mutual respect. Physical intimacy is never rushed; instead, it is earned through trust and emotional connection. This device challenges traditional romance tropes, centering the story on communication and care.
Foreshadowing and Symbolism
Recurring motifs—rain, soup, tattoos, stargazing, and animal facts—serve as symbols of vulnerability, comfort, and the search for meaning. Early scenes foreshadow later developments: Zeke's initial awkwardness about moving in hints at his deeper fears of abandonment; Carter's reluctance to talk about his family signals the coming confrontation. The gradual accumulation of shared experiences builds a sense of inevitability, making the final declarations of love feel both surprising and earned.
FAQ
What is Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder about?
- College romance and hockey: The novel centers on Zeke Cassidy, a struggling college student, and Carter Morgan III, a tough hockey goalie, as their lives intertwine through a roommate arrangement.
- Themes of identity and growth: The story explores friendship, trust, personal growth, and the challenges of young adulthood, all set against the backdrop of college life and hockey culture.
- LGBTQ+ representation: The narrative delves into queer experiences, focusing on demisexuality, bisexuality, and the complexities of attraction and acceptance.
- Emotional and humorous tone: The book balances humor, emotional depth, and the realities of navigating relationships and self-discovery.
Who are the main characters in Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder and what are their backgrounds?
- Zeke Cassidy: A 20-year-old physics and math student, Zeke is introverted, academically gifted, demisexual, and lives with his grandmother after losing his parents.
- Carter Morgan III: A tattooed, physically imposing hockey goalie from a wealthy but emotionally distant family, Carter is openly bisexual and struggles with loneliness and family expectations.
- Supporting cast: Key figures include Vasel (Carter’s teammate), Zeke’s warm and supportive grandmother, and Jefferson (Zeke’s extroverted best friend), all of whom enrich the protagonists’ lives.
How does the relationship between Zeke Cassidy and Carter Morgan III develop in Shots on Net?
- Awkward beginnings: Their relationship starts with Zeke nervously answering Carter’s roommate ad, leading to initial awkwardness but also unexpected kindness.
- Gradual friendship: Shared activities like mini golf, zoo visits, and hockey games help them break down barriers and build trust.
- Romantic progression: Subtle romantic tension grows through protective gestures, misunderstandings about “dates,” and open conversations about boundaries and feelings.
- Mutual support: Both characters support each other through family issues, academic pressures, and personal insecurities, deepening their bond.
What role does hockey play in Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder?
- Central to Carter’s identity: Hockey is Carter’s passion, providing structure, pride, and a sense of belonging, while also serving as an escape from personal struggles.
- Narrative backdrop: The sport introduces a cast of teammates and coaches, enriching the social environment and driving key plot points.
- Bridge between worlds: Zeke’s unfamiliarity with hockey contrasts with Carter’s expertise, but shared experiences around the sport help strengthen their connection.
- Symbolic significance: Hockey represents teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams, paralleling the characters’ personal journeys.
How does Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder portray LGBTQ+ themes and representation?
- Diverse sexual identities: Zeke is demisexual, and Carter is openly bisexual, with both characters’ experiences explored in depth.
- Positive team environment: Carter’s teammates and coach are supportive, and Coach Mackenzie’s relationship with NHL star Anthony Lawson normalizes queer relationships in sports.
- Challenges and acceptance: The book addresses family rejection, social isolation, and the need for supportive relationships, while emphasizing acceptance and authenticity.
- Visibility in sports: References to real and fictional queer hockey players highlight the evolving culture of inclusivity within athletics.
What are the main challenges Carter Morgan III faces regarding his hockey career in Shots on Net?
- Parental opposition: Carter’s parents disapprove of his hockey ambitions, pressuring him to join the family business and threatening to cut off tuition funding.
- Uncertain future: Carter fears not being signed by an NHL team, which adds emotional and financial stress.
- Seeking professional help: With Coach Mackenzie’s guidance, Carter secures an agent to pursue professional opportunities, marking a pivotal step in his career.
- Balancing identity and ambition: Carter must navigate being openly bisexual in a traditionally masculine sport while pursuing his dreams.
How does Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder explore themes of identity and belonging?
- Personal identity journeys: Both Zeke and Carter grapple with understanding themselves—Zeke through his demisexuality and introversion, Carter through his sexuality and family expectations.
- Quest for acceptance: The story highlights the importance of finding a place and people where one feels truly accepted, symbolized by Zeke’s move and their growing friendship.
- Challenging stereotypes: The narrative subverts “jock” and “introvert” stereotypes, encouraging readers to look beyond appearances.
- Safe spaces: Their relationship becomes a safe space for authenticity, vulnerability, and mutual support.
How is intimacy and sexual exploration depicted between Carter and Zeke in Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder?
- Open communication: The characters discuss desires, boundaries, and insecurities, such as Zeke’s inexperience and Carter’s discomfort with casual hookups.
- Consent and care: Their first sexual experiences are portrayed with explicit but sensitive detail, emphasizing consent, preparation, and mutual pleasure.
- Humor and learning: The narrative includes playful banter and learning moments, making their exploration feel authentic and relatable.
- Emotional connection: Intimacy is rooted in emotional vulnerability and trust, rather than just physical attraction.
What is the significance of the title Shots on Net in J.J. Mulder’s novel?
- Literal hockey reference: The phrase refers to attempts to score in hockey, directly tying to Carter’s role as a goalie.
- Metaphorical meaning: It symbolizes the risks and chances both characters take in life, love, and personal growth.
- Narrative focus: The title encapsulates the blend of sports action and emotional drama that defines the story.
- Theme of resilience: It highlights the importance of perseverance and taking chances, both on and off the ice.
What are some key moments that highlight emotional depth in Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder?
- Family warmth: Scenes with Zeke’s grandmother provide stability and unconditional love, grounding the story in family care.
- Carter’s vulnerability: Carter’s painful hookup experience and subsequent openness with Zeke reveal his struggles with intimacy and trust.
- “Date” misunderstanding: The confusion and resolution around Carter’s dinner invitation to Zeke showcase their communication challenges and emotional growth.
- Symbolic gestures: The pearl gift from Zeke to Carter represents their growing affection and the rarity of their connection.
What are the best quotes from Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder and what do they mean?
- “Beggars cannot be choosers, as they say, and I am way beyond begging.” – Zeke’s line reflects his vulnerability and determination in seeking a home.
- “One day, nobody will give two shits who we’re with. All that will matter is how we play hockey.” – Carter’s hopeful vision for inclusivity in sports.
- “I think I might love you.” – Carter’s confession marks a turning point in their relationship, blending hope and vulnerability.
- “Lube and fingers, that’s all there is to it.” – Carter’s humorous advice about sex, highlighting the book’s blend of intimacy and levity.
- “You’re still invited to Sunday dinner, by the way.” – Zeke’s invitation symbolizes inclusion and the building of chosen family.
Why should I read Shots on Net by J.J. Mulder?
- Authentic character portrayal: The novel offers a nuanced look at two young men navigating friendship, identity, and love with honesty and depth.
- Engaging sports and romance blend: The hockey backdrop adds excitement, while the emotional narrative explores belonging, acceptance, and vulnerability.
- Meaningful LGBTQ+ representation: The book challenges stereotypes and celebrates diversity, providing visibility for queer identities in sports.
- Relatable and heartfelt: Readers seeking inclusive, thoughtful romance with humor, tension, and tenderness will find the story compelling and memorable.
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