Headstrong By Eden Finley Apr 2026

Review: Falling for the "Wingman" in Eden Finley's Headstrong

The story introduces us to , a college hockey player who has recently come out but is struggling with the execution part of his new identity. He’s eager—perhaps too eager—and his "oversharing and boundary crossing" tendency tends to scare off potential hookups. Determined to lose his virginity by his 22nd birthday, Whit finds himself at V&V, where he encounters Rainn , the resident "grumpy" bartender.

Rainn is a former NHL prospect whose career was cut short by a devastating injury. Because of this, he has a deep-seated hatred for anything related to hockey. Despite his initial urge to run the other way when he realizes Whit is a hockey player, Rainn finds himself feeling sorry for the guy’s disastrous flirting attempts and agrees to act as his wingman. Why It Works: Sunshine meets Grumpy (with a Twist) Headstrong by Eden Finley

Rainn identifies as straight at the start, making his role as a gay dating coach inherently complicated. Watching him give "gay hookup tips" while slowly realizing he wants to be the one on the receiving end of those tips is pure rom-com gold.

Reviewers have praised the book for its "slow build up of intimacy and experimentation." Unlike some romances that jump straight into the deep end, Whit and Rainn explore their physical connection gradually, which feels authentic to Whit’s virginity and Rainn’s awakening. Review: Falling for the "Wingman" in Eden Finley's

As part of a shared world, Headstrong captures the essence of the series—a sense of community and the healing power of finding where you belong. It sits alongside other fan favorites like Annabeth Albert’s Featherbed and Garrett Leigh’s Heartscape , adding a lighter, snarkier tone to the collection. Final Verdict: 4/5 Stars

Despite his rambling and lack of filter, Whit is described as having a "wholesome winsome charm" that eventually wears down Rainn’s defenses. The "Vino & Veritas" Connection Rainn is a former NHL prospect whose career

If you enjoy , Headstrong is a must-read for your TBR list.