What do you think?
Rate this book
Lakeshore U #2
On Thin Ice
(Alternate cover edition of ASIN B0BZDT344Z.)
When Harper Dixon discovers her father is the Lakeshore U Lakers new assistant coach, she wonders if her life can get any worse.
Enter Mason Steele.
Arrogant. Cold. With enough ice around his heart to freeze anyone who gets too close.
When Mason proposes one night to exorcise the fiery attraction between them, the last thing he expects is to wake up to an empty bed the next morning.
Or to find himself unable to get his new coach’s daughter out of his thoughts.
He’s Lakeshore U’s broody left winger with the weight of the world on his shoulders.
She’s vivacious, persistent, and has puck bunny written all over her.
Can Mason stick to his biggest rule and keep Harper out of his head—and his bed?
Or will she be able to prove to him that sometimes skating on thin ice is worth the risk?
* On Thin Ice is a 93,000-word standalone novel set in the Lakeshore U series. It is recommended for readers 18+
When Harper Dixon discovers her father is the Lakeshore U Lakers new assistant coach, she wonders if her life can get any worse.
Enter Mason Steele.
Arrogant. Cold. With enough ice around his heart to freeze anyone who gets too close.
When Mason proposes one night to exorcise the fiery attraction between them, the last thing he expects is to wake up to an empty bed the next morning.
Or to find himself unable to get his new coach’s daughter out of his thoughts.
He’s Lakeshore U’s broody left winger with the weight of the world on his shoulders.
She’s vivacious, persistent, and has puck bunny written all over her.
Can Mason stick to his biggest rule and keep Harper out of his head—and his bed?
Or will she be able to prove to him that sometimes skating on thin ice is worth the risk?
* On Thin Ice is a 93,000-word standalone novel set in the Lakeshore U series. It is recommended for readers 18+
474 pages, ebook
Published June 20, 2023
162 people are currently reading
2350 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Cotton
119 books3,128 followers Reckless Love. Wild Hearts.
L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.
Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.
L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:
Official Website
www.lacotton.com
Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton
L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.
Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.
L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:
Official Website
www.lacotton.com
Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
June 15, 2023
On Thin Ice is the newest book in L.A. Cotton’s Lakeshore U hockey series and I loved this one! This has a grumpy, broody hockey hero and the heroine is the coach’s (estranged) daughter, who also has celiac.
Mason Steele is a bit of an alaphole in the beginning of the story. He’s a grump who assumes the worst about Harper the first time he meets her. Mason thinks Harper must just be another puck bunny, who only pretends to be into hockey to try and get with players. And let’s just say he definitely misjudges her and is rude about it at first! 😅 They end up around one another a few times, as their best friends are dating (the couple of book 1). But while Mason is a grump to everyone else, he’s super sweet to his mom and younger brother who has autism. And we start to see he’s grumpy but really has a lot on his shoulders! He starts to see Harper differently the more she’s around, and when he sees her helping out his brother where she works (she doesn’t realize they’re brothers at first).
Harper’s dad, who she doesn’t have a good relationship is, surprises her by showing up at the college and it’s announced that he’s the new assistant coach to the Lakeshore U hockey team (his alma mater). Harper definitely deals with the trauma from her estranged father throughout the story. I especially loved seeing Harper with Mason’s brother, their little bond/relationship is so sweet and the family she finds in Mason’s family is everything. Harper also has celiac and that is discussed a bit throughout the story as well. I just love a grumpy hero who doesn’t want to want the heroine but falls hard!
Thank you to Forever and Always PR and the author for an audio ARC. All thoughts in this review are my own. If you love audios, I definitely recommend: Teddy Hamilton and Stella Hunter narrate and they perfectly captured these characters! On Thin Ice has a release date of June 20, 2023.
Mason Steele is a bit of an alaphole in the beginning of the story. He’s a grump who assumes the worst about Harper the first time he meets her. Mason thinks Harper must just be another puck bunny, who only pretends to be into hockey to try and get with players. And let’s just say he definitely misjudges her and is rude about it at first! 😅 They end up around one another a few times, as their best friends are dating (the couple of book 1). But while Mason is a grump to everyone else, he’s super sweet to his mom and younger brother who has autism. And we start to see he’s grumpy but really has a lot on his shoulders! He starts to see Harper differently the more she’s around, and when he sees her helping out his brother where she works (she doesn’t realize they’re brothers at first).
Harper’s dad, who she doesn’t have a good relationship is, surprises her by showing up at the college and it’s announced that he’s the new assistant coach to the Lakeshore U hockey team (his alma mater). Harper definitely deals with the trauma from her estranged father throughout the story. I especially loved seeing Harper with Mason’s brother, their little bond/relationship is so sweet and the family she finds in Mason’s family is everything. Harper also has celiac and that is discussed a bit throughout the story as well. I just love a grumpy hero who doesn’t want to want the heroine but falls hard!
Thank you to Forever and Always PR and the author for an audio ARC. All thoughts in this review are my own. If you love audios, I definitely recommend: Teddy Hamilton and Stella Hunter narrate and they perfectly captured these characters! On Thin Ice has a release date of June 20, 2023.
June 5, 2023
I will preface this by saying that I get that this was the grumpy sunshine trope but my god did I dislike Mason for alot of this story. I wanted to smack him so hard because he was SO mean and alot of the time I didn’t feel like it was justified.
With that being said, I adored Harper and I absolutely love the side characters and how close they all are. The banter is hilarious and the found family elements I loved.
Mason redeemed himself for me in the last 25% which I’m glad about because he was making me super ragey. Overall, another great sports romance from La Cotton.
With that being said, I adored Harper and I absolutely love the side characters and how close they all are. The banter is hilarious and the found family elements I loved.
Mason redeemed himself for me in the last 25% which I’m glad about because he was making me super ragey. Overall, another great sports romance from La Cotton.
June 18, 2023
Rating 4.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice 2/5
Now I know why it's called on thin ice. I'm not gonna lie Mason really made me wanna throat punch him at first, but then I got to know him as the story went on, and it just makes sense why he acts the way he is cause torn between being this responsible big brother who always shows up for his brother with autism, and I do feel for him since his brother always looked up to and his mom relies on him. So the pressure is real. However, his mom does her best not to super rely on him and let him do his own thing.
As for Harper, Mason always got the wrong impression of her and saw her as this Puck bunny who got around. She is the coach’s daughter. She, too, also had her own struggles trying to appease her own father. This book is more heartwarming, and it felt like it was a struggle for both characters to get together, but for sure, you will get a HEA. But sigh, Mason, hahaha sometimes there were moments where you just say so many wrong things one after another, consecutively, in a row, but he definitely redeemed himself 🥰
🏒 Grumpy sunshine
🏒 hate to love
🏒 coach’s daughter
🏒 autism rep
🏒 fmc with celiac disease
Spice 2/5
Now I know why it's called on thin ice. I'm not gonna lie Mason really made me wanna throat punch him at first, but then I got to know him as the story went on, and it just makes sense why he acts the way he is cause torn between being this responsible big brother who always shows up for his brother with autism, and I do feel for him since his brother always looked up to and his mom relies on him. So the pressure is real. However, his mom does her best not to super rely on him and let him do his own thing.
As for Harper, Mason always got the wrong impression of her and saw her as this Puck bunny who got around. She is the coach’s daughter. She, too, also had her own struggles trying to appease her own father. This book is more heartwarming, and it felt like it was a struggle for both characters to get together, but for sure, you will get a HEA. But sigh, Mason, hahaha sometimes there were moments where you just say so many wrong things one after another, consecutively, in a row, but he definitely redeemed himself 🥰
🏒 Grumpy sunshine
🏒 hate to love
🏒 coach’s daughter
🏒 autism rep
🏒 fmc with celiac disease
June 8, 2023
5/5 🌟
3/5 🌶️
Tropes:
~ Hockey romance
~ Grumpy sunshine
~ Coach’s daughter
~ Found family
~ Autism rep
~ Celiac rep
I really loved these characters and this story. 🫶🏼 I feel like all of the books in this series go a bit deeper with different traumas/struggles/etc. and I really appreciate that. I feel like it makes these characters and their stories more realistic.
I knew I was going to love Mason Steele as soon as I met him and saw how grouchy he was. 😂 It’s always the grumpy guys who end up just having a lot on their shoulders and keep their walls up because they don’t feel like they have time for anyone or anything else but you find out the other side of their coin and learn that they’re actually a good guy deep down. 💘
I felt really bad for Harper, especially in the beginning of this, she really didn’t have any true/deep connections with anyone and it seemed like she was more of an outsider, even in her “friend groups.” I appreciated the growing friendship that continued in this one between her and Aurora (Aurora is from book 1 & their friendship starts there).
The relationship I think I loved the most was actually between Harper and Mason’s younger, autistic brother. I loved how good she was with him and how she even helped in situations where he was struggling or maybe would’ve started to struggle with certain situations or conversations with others, she knew just how to distract or lead away the conversation into something that would be more positive for him. I feel like that was really important in showing her character as well. Not to mention, I ended up loving Mason’s brother too, he was so blunt and funny at times, it had me giggling. 🤭
I have absolutely loved this series and can’t wait to read more books by this author! 📚
3/5 🌶️
Tropes:
~ Hockey romance
~ Grumpy sunshine
~ Coach’s daughter
~ Found family
~ Autism rep
~ Celiac rep
I really loved these characters and this story. 🫶🏼 I feel like all of the books in this series go a bit deeper with different traumas/struggles/etc. and I really appreciate that. I feel like it makes these characters and their stories more realistic.
I knew I was going to love Mason Steele as soon as I met him and saw how grouchy he was. 😂 It’s always the grumpy guys who end up just having a lot on their shoulders and keep their walls up because they don’t feel like they have time for anyone or anything else but you find out the other side of their coin and learn that they’re actually a good guy deep down. 💘
I felt really bad for Harper, especially in the beginning of this, she really didn’t have any true/deep connections with anyone and it seemed like she was more of an outsider, even in her “friend groups.” I appreciated the growing friendship that continued in this one between her and Aurora (Aurora is from book 1 & their friendship starts there).
The relationship I think I loved the most was actually between Harper and Mason’s younger, autistic brother. I loved how good she was with him and how she even helped in situations where he was struggling or maybe would’ve started to struggle with certain situations or conversations with others, she knew just how to distract or lead away the conversation into something that would be more positive for him. I feel like that was really important in showing her character as well. Not to mention, I ended up loving Mason’s brother too, he was so blunt and funny at times, it had me giggling. 🤭
I have absolutely loved this series and can’t wait to read more books by this author! 📚
July 2, 2023
***4,5 "Blondie!!!" stars***
"We were a disaster waiting to happen, and I wanted to save her from the wreckage -even if she hated me for it."
This series is getting better and better with each book and in my mind, it's near touching the pedestal that I have put the Rixon Riders series!!! Imagine that!!!
This was a grumpy-sunshine romance, with a very grumpy boy and a very positive girl that this said boy was hurting really badly, at every turn!!! But their story was so deep and very emotional and it surely got under my skin!!!!
We knew that Mason would be complicated, but Harper had her own issues to deal with and I liked the way that their attraction built up and reformed to a deep connection that neither of them could ignore at the end!!!
"Denial was king, and I was going to wear that crown for as long as possible."
Mason Steele was a very grumpy guy and the truth is that he was kind of an a$$ when it was coming to Harper Dixon... He thought of her the worst, that she was a shallow, puck bunny and he didn't need that kind of unnecessary drama in his life, when his life was already very complicated!!!
He didn't have room for another one burden, cause the load upon his shoulders was already too heavy...
"I had no place in my life for a girl. Especially one like Harper Dixon."
Harper was a girl that was wearing her heart on her sleeve for anyone to see!!! And that wasn't working very well for her, since everyone was avoiding her... Also, she was fighting with gluten an ugly war... She was loving hockey, but nobody could understand the right reasons behind that and she was kind of misunderstood from many people!!!
Poor girl, my heart was breaking, not only for the way Mason was treating her in half of the book, but because everyone was wary of her and she seemed so lonely...
"Mason Steel was the storm I never saw coming, but by God, if I didn't mind being swept up in its wreckage."
Mason and Harper's story had started with the wrong foot... Mason wasn't treating her well, even though he wanted her... Harper wanted him, but she was trying to stay out of his way... But in a weird way, they were always finding themselves near each other and when their roads are colliding in the form of Harper's father that he is the new assistant coach of the Lakers and he is taking Mason under his wings, Harper, in a twisted way, is taking Mason's autistic brother under her wing and things are getting tangled even more than before...
"I couldn't give in to the connection simmering between us. Because if I did, we'd be skating on thin ice. Waiting for the cracks to splinter wide open and one of us to go under."
I liked how Lianne had built up this story...
It was very deep and complicated cause each of our heroes had their own traumas to deal with...
But even though it seems impossible, the walls had been demolished slowly and steadily and our heroes found something great into each other...
I really loved their story...
I loved that Harper had found a new family in her friends and Mason's family!!!
I never liked her legend of her father and I resented him for the way he was treating her!!!
"What was it about this girl that affected me so much?"
And of course, I liked that I saw all the previous couples in the series to make an appearance cause I have fallen in love with each one of them...
But God, will Mrs. Cotton write a full book about Connor and Ella cause things took a strange turn in here and I can not wait to learn more...
The only sure thing is that the Lakeshore U is an amazing sports romance series and I am recommending it with close eyes to the sports romance lovers out there!!! Just go for it!!!
"Loving a Laker isn't easy... But it's worth every second of doubt, I promise."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
"We were a disaster waiting to happen, and I wanted to save her from the wreckage -even if she hated me for it."
This series is getting better and better with each book and in my mind, it's near touching the pedestal that I have put the Rixon Riders series!!! Imagine that!!!
This was a grumpy-sunshine romance, with a very grumpy boy and a very positive girl that this said boy was hurting really badly, at every turn!!! But their story was so deep and very emotional and it surely got under my skin!!!!
We knew that Mason would be complicated, but Harper had her own issues to deal with and I liked the way that their attraction built up and reformed to a deep connection that neither of them could ignore at the end!!!
"Denial was king, and I was going to wear that crown for as long as possible."
Mason Steele was a very grumpy guy and the truth is that he was kind of an a$$ when it was coming to Harper Dixon... He thought of her the worst, that she was a shallow, puck bunny and he didn't need that kind of unnecessary drama in his life, when his life was already very complicated!!!
He didn't have room for another one burden, cause the load upon his shoulders was already too heavy...
"I had no place in my life for a girl. Especially one like Harper Dixon."
Harper was a girl that was wearing her heart on her sleeve for anyone to see!!! And that wasn't working very well for her, since everyone was avoiding her... Also, she was fighting with gluten an ugly war... She was loving hockey, but nobody could understand the right reasons behind that and she was kind of misunderstood from many people!!!
Poor girl, my heart was breaking, not only for the way Mason was treating her in half of the book, but because everyone was wary of her and she seemed so lonely...
"Mason Steel was the storm I never saw coming, but by God, if I didn't mind being swept up in its wreckage."
Mason and Harper's story had started with the wrong foot... Mason wasn't treating her well, even though he wanted her... Harper wanted him, but she was trying to stay out of his way... But in a weird way, they were always finding themselves near each other and when their roads are colliding in the form of Harper's father that he is the new assistant coach of the Lakers and he is taking Mason under his wings, Harper, in a twisted way, is taking Mason's autistic brother under her wing and things are getting tangled even more than before...
"I couldn't give in to the connection simmering between us. Because if I did, we'd be skating on thin ice. Waiting for the cracks to splinter wide open and one of us to go under."
I liked how Lianne had built up this story...
It was very deep and complicated cause each of our heroes had their own traumas to deal with...
But even though it seems impossible, the walls had been demolished slowly and steadily and our heroes found something great into each other...
I really loved their story...
I loved that Harper had found a new family in her friends and Mason's family!!!
I never liked her legend of her father and I resented him for the way he was treating her!!!
"What was it about this girl that affected me so much?"
And of course, I liked that I saw all the previous couples in the series to make an appearance cause I have fallen in love with each one of them...
But God, will Mrs. Cotton write a full book about Connor and Ella cause things took a strange turn in here and I can not wait to learn more...
The only sure thing is that the Lakeshore U is an amazing sports romance series and I am recommending it with close eyes to the sports romance lovers out there!!! Just go for it!!!
"Loving a Laker isn't easy... But it's worth every second of doubt, I promise."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
June 16, 2023
Mason Steele was the storm I never saw coming, but by God, if I didn't mind being swept up in its wreckage.
4.5 stars!
Mason Steele is everything! I honestly love when Lianne writes a grumpy/sunshine trope because I know she will hit us will all of the feels and angsty longing (I'm looking at you Enzo and Nora!!). Mason and Harper had so much to overcome in order for them to finally let the other in--Mason and his devotion to his family, and Harper's insecurities surrounding her famous father--but their courtship was so amazing to watch unfold. It was so fantastic being back in the Lakeshore U world and seeing all of our favorite hockey players again, happy and in love. The banter and teasing between Connor, Aiden, Noah, and Mason was absolutely brilliant and really showcased how much they care for one another. This is an amazing series so far, and I cannot wait for more🖤
Tropes: hate-to-love-you, broody hero, misunderstood heroine, grumpy/sunshine, forbidden love, no-strings attached fling, coach's daughter/player, hockey romance, Autism representation, celiac representation, found family, slow burn, STEAMY🔥
*ARC provided by the author, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
December 28, 2023
Audiobook re-read. The narrators are the same duo for these books and I’m digging that.
I’m so in love with this series. Each book is special in its own way and I can’t get enough.
I’m a sucker for a grumpy guy. Noah Holden is the guy you’re supposed to fall for but we all know it’s Mason that’s the most attractive.
Mason has a heart of ice. He has enough going on to block out everything that isn’t hockey or family.
Harper has so much love to give but doesn’t trust anyone enough to share it. She’s avoiding family and the ice.
These two can’t seem to get away from each other even though Mason’s made it clear he doesn’t want to know Harper.
Can two opposites overlook their differences and form a bond strong enough for love?
So good. I loved the main characters, the side characters and everything else. Highly recommended for teen sports romance fans.
I’m so in love with this series. Each book is special in its own way and I can’t get enough.
I’m a sucker for a grumpy guy. Noah Holden is the guy you’re supposed to fall for but we all know it’s Mason that’s the most attractive.
Mason has a heart of ice. He has enough going on to block out everything that isn’t hockey or family.
Harper has so much love to give but doesn’t trust anyone enough to share it. She’s avoiding family and the ice.
These two can’t seem to get away from each other even though Mason’s made it clear he doesn’t want to know Harper.
Can two opposites overlook their differences and form a bond strong enough for love?
So good. I loved the main characters, the side characters and everything else. Highly recommended for teen sports romance fans.
June 20, 2023
On Thin Ice is the second installment in L.A. Cotton's Lakeshore U series and follows Harper and Mason. I've enjoyed this series a lot, but I think these two are my favorites so far! I devoured every one of their interactions, and their chemistry was so palpable page after page.
At first, Mason is a real jerk, especially with Harper. He doesn't let a lot of people in. He worries a lot about his brother and mother and wants to do everything he can to protect them. So he doesn't have the time or interest in a serious relationship. I loved having POV because it helped to understand some of his actions. He has a heart of gold underneath all his layers and is just as affected by Harper as she is by him. To be honest, I didn't care much about Harper in the previous installment, but I adored her here! On the outside, she seems put together, but like Mason, she has her own family issues to deal with. She has her heart on her sleeve and just wants to be someone's first choice. Her character's development was so well-written, and it was impossible not to root for her and Mason! Their dynamic was great too. Harper and Mason's paths keep crossing, and the tension between them builds until they can no longer resist each other. I just would have liked a little more moments between them, especially after they spent their first night together because it took them a while to get together. The interactions between Mason, his brother Scottie, and Harper were also very cute, heartwarming, and a nice addition to the story!
On Thin Ice is another wonderful story by L.A. Cotton! I can't wait to see which couple will get its book next, and I already know I'll be reading it as soon as it comes out.
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
At first, Mason is a real jerk, especially with Harper. He doesn't let a lot of people in. He worries a lot about his brother and mother and wants to do everything he can to protect them. So he doesn't have the time or interest in a serious relationship. I loved having POV because it helped to understand some of his actions. He has a heart of gold underneath all his layers and is just as affected by Harper as she is by him. To be honest, I didn't care much about Harper in the previous installment, but I adored her here! On the outside, she seems put together, but like Mason, she has her own family issues to deal with. She has her heart on her sleeve and just wants to be someone's first choice. Her character's development was so well-written, and it was impossible not to root for her and Mason! Their dynamic was great too. Harper and Mason's paths keep crossing, and the tension between them builds until they can no longer resist each other. I just would have liked a little more moments between them, especially after they spent their first night together because it took them a while to get together. The interactions between Mason, his brother Scottie, and Harper were also very cute, heartwarming, and a nice addition to the story!
On Thin Ice is another wonderful story by L.A. Cotton! I can't wait to see which couple will get its book next, and I already know I'll be reading it as soon as it comes out.
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
June 14, 2023
4.5 stars
Thank you Forever & Always PR for the audio arc of this!
I loved the narration of this and had a FANTASTIC time with this. My biggest issue was that sometimes Mason was just too mean to Harper even though he did grovel and make up for his mistakes there were just some things he said that bugged me, but this was still a wonderful book and I loved it!!!
Thank you Forever & Always PR for the audio arc of this!
I loved the narration of this and had a FANTASTIC time with this. My biggest issue was that sometimes Mason was just too mean to Harper even though he did grovel and make up for his mistakes there were just some things he said that bugged me, but this was still a wonderful book and I loved it!!!
Read
July 24, 2023Grumpy/Sunshine
Celiac Rep
Austim Rep (side character - hero's younger brother)
Hockey Romance
Celiac Rep
Austim Rep (side character - hero's younger brother)
Hockey Romance
August 3, 2023
3.5⭐️ There were parts I liked a lot. I think how men in this book behave and talk is very realistic. The college experience in general was. Also the representation of the autistic brother was quite good (and take this from someone who has an autistic sister)
BUT the main hero was very mean, and he treated the heroine like rubbish. And what is the romance book without the potential bookish boyfriend? I wanted to like him, but I didn’t.
I didn’t feel the chemistry between the couple. We got some inner dialogues were they were both trying to convince themselves to fall for the other instead of getting any good enemies to lovers story were they would interact with EACH OTHER. Has something happened in the previous parts of the series that I should know about? Or was it just insta lust with unnecessary hate and we should base the love story on these dialogues?
BUT the main hero was very mean, and he treated the heroine like rubbish. And what is the romance book without the potential bookish boyfriend? I wanted to like him, but I didn’t.
I didn’t feel the chemistry between the couple. We got some inner dialogues were they were both trying to convince themselves to fall for the other instead of getting any good enemies to lovers story were they would interact with EACH OTHER. Has something happened in the previous parts of the series that I should know about? Or was it just insta lust with unnecessary hate and we should base the love story on these dialogues?
June 19, 2023
This is my first time reading L.A. Cotton and thought this was a fast-paced, enjoyable hockey romance. I listened to this on audiobook and really enjoyed the narration. Teddy Hamilton and Stella Hunter did a great job narrating and bringing these characters to life. Teddy Hamilton was perfect as Mason and sexy as always.
This was a grumpy x sunshine romance, but the hero came off as more of an asshole than just grumpy for the first part of the book.
Mason is a star hockey player for Lakeshore U. He meets Harper since their friends are dating. He immediately has the wrong impression of Harper and just thinks she is a puck bunny. Harper tries to befriend him, but Mason rebuffed her multiple times in cruel ways. Harper volunteers at the center/school his autistic brother goes to and she has such a sweet relationship with him. Mason could not stop his interest or attraction to Harper, especially when he realized how good she was with his younger brother. He tried to have a one night stand with her to get her out of his system, but we all know how that goes.
Things get complicated when her father becomes the assistant coach. She has a difficult and estranged relationship with her father. He treats her like crap and doesn't want anything to do with her. I really liked Harper's character and how she tried to be positive after everything she went through. She has celiac disease, and I appreciated the chronic illness rep in this book.
Mason had a lot of weight and responsibilities on his shoulders since his dad left his mom. He has a younger autistic brother, and he feels like all of his energy and focus needed to be spent in helping his brother and mom. He came off as such an asshole to Harper in the beginning, but he was so sweet with his mom and brother. Mason changed his asshole ways with Harper once he started to learn who she really was. He redeemed himself in the last 3rd of the book. I loved how he was supportive and all in with her when he finally let her in.
Thank you to Forever and Always PR and the author for providing the audio ARC.
This was a grumpy x sunshine romance, but the hero came off as more of an asshole than just grumpy for the first part of the book.
Mason is a star hockey player for Lakeshore U. He meets Harper since their friends are dating. He immediately has the wrong impression of Harper and just thinks she is a puck bunny. Harper tries to befriend him, but Mason rebuffed her multiple times in cruel ways. Harper volunteers at the center/school his autistic brother goes to and she has such a sweet relationship with him. Mason could not stop his interest or attraction to Harper, especially when he realized how good she was with his younger brother. He tried to have a one night stand with her to get her out of his system, but we all know how that goes.
Things get complicated when her father becomes the assistant coach. She has a difficult and estranged relationship with her father. He treats her like crap and doesn't want anything to do with her. I really liked Harper's character and how she tried to be positive after everything she went through. She has celiac disease, and I appreciated the chronic illness rep in this book.
Mason had a lot of weight and responsibilities on his shoulders since his dad left his mom. He has a younger autistic brother, and he feels like all of his energy and focus needed to be spent in helping his brother and mom. He came off as such an asshole to Harper in the beginning, but he was so sweet with his mom and brother. Mason changed his asshole ways with Harper once he started to learn who she really was. He redeemed himself in the last 3rd of the book. I loved how he was supportive and all in with her when he finally let her in.
Thank you to Forever and Always PR and the author for providing the audio ARC.
July 1, 2023
4.5/5
I received an ARC of the audiobook from Forever & Always PR, thank you! All opinions are my own.
I'm trying to listen to more audiobooks so when I read about this book I requested the audiobook from Forever & Always PR and I was so happy when I got it! It was a fantastic experience listening to this, the narrators were great.
This is the second book in the Lakeshore series but you could read them as standalones cause they follow different couples. And even though they say things in this one that happened in the previous one (that I haven't read yet) I wasn't mad about it, in fact I can't wait to read the first one!
In this book we follow Mason and Harper. Mason is a hockey player, arrogant and he keeps to himself. Except when he's with his brother, cause he adores him. Harper is the coach's daughter, a ray of sunshine but she's also dealing with her own problems. Her father didn't tell her about his new job as coach in her college and she's not too happy about it. Mason and Harper know each other because their best friends are dating so when Harper tries to build a friendship with Mason and he rejects, she gets the message. So why is he asking her a one night stand now? And why does she want that too?
This was my first L. A. Cotton book and it won't be my last. It was so good, I loved it.
I love this grumpy/sunshine story. Mason was a bit frustrating but we get to know why so I get it. And he is super sweet to his brother, who has autism. Harper was great too and I loved seeing their relationship develop. It was predictable but the good kind, the I-can't-wait-for-them-to-realize good kind.
I also loved their friends (that's why I really need to read the first one soon!). Aurora and Noah were hilarious and the best. Their friendship to the main characters was so pure. I also can't wait to know more about Ella and Connor.
I really liked the celiac rep, I don't know very much about it so I don't know if it was well done but it felt like it was. Harper has celiac disease and she has to be careful around food and what she eats.
I'm so sad that it's over, I want to know more about these characters. But I'm happy this is a series and I'll keep reading about them and their friends.
I received an ARC of the audiobook from Forever & Always PR, thank you! All opinions are my own.
I'm trying to listen to more audiobooks so when I read about this book I requested the audiobook from Forever & Always PR and I was so happy when I got it! It was a fantastic experience listening to this, the narrators were great.
This is the second book in the Lakeshore series but you could read them as standalones cause they follow different couples. And even though they say things in this one that happened in the previous one (that I haven't read yet) I wasn't mad about it, in fact I can't wait to read the first one!
In this book we follow Mason and Harper. Mason is a hockey player, arrogant and he keeps to himself. Except when he's with his brother, cause he adores him. Harper is the coach's daughter, a ray of sunshine but she's also dealing with her own problems. Her father didn't tell her about his new job as coach in her college and she's not too happy about it. Mason and Harper know each other because their best friends are dating so when Harper tries to build a friendship with Mason and he rejects, she gets the message. So why is he asking her a one night stand now? And why does she want that too?
This was my first L. A. Cotton book and it won't be my last. It was so good, I loved it.
I love this grumpy/sunshine story. Mason was a bit frustrating but we get to know why so I get it. And he is super sweet to his brother, who has autism. Harper was great too and I loved seeing their relationship develop. It was predictable but the good kind, the I-can't-wait-for-them-to-realize good kind.
I also loved their friends (that's why I really need to read the first one soon!). Aurora and Noah were hilarious and the best. Their friendship to the main characters was so pure. I also can't wait to know more about Ella and Connor.
I really liked the celiac rep, I don't know very much about it so I don't know if it was well done but it felt like it was. Harper has celiac disease and she has to be careful around food and what she eats.
I'm so sad that it's over, I want to know more about these characters. But I'm happy this is a series and I'll keep reading about them and their friends.
June 29, 2023
"𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧, 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐞. 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐲? 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
—On Thin Ice by L.A. Cotton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
***
I read this book overnight. This is the second book I've read from the author.
I've read about Mason and Harper in Break The Ice—Noah and Rory's book.
In the beginning I've always thought Mason was reticent and callous towards Harper. His interactions with her were always brusque, and I guess there's no excuse for bad behavior but I get where he's coming from. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes it becomes that way because we love, we care and worry for people who are important to us.
Harper is the poster child for the phrase "kï|| them with kindness." She's patient, resilient and I admire her candor. There's just so much you can do to please a person. At the end of the day, when it's all been said and done, the only person who can heal you is YOU. Living is hard enough so be kind to yourself.
I must say that I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Their banter alone was rousing, and their dynamic is swoon-worthy.... And let's not forget Scottie—who never fails to put a smile on my face whenever he opens his mouth.
—On Thin Ice by L.A. Cotton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
***
I read this book overnight. This is the second book I've read from the author.
I've read about Mason and Harper in Break The Ice—Noah and Rory's book.
In the beginning I've always thought Mason was reticent and callous towards Harper. His interactions with her were always brusque, and I guess there's no excuse for bad behavior but I get where he's coming from. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes it becomes that way because we love, we care and worry for people who are important to us.
Harper is the poster child for the phrase "kï|| them with kindness." She's patient, resilient and I admire her candor. There's just so much you can do to please a person. At the end of the day, when it's all been said and done, the only person who can heal you is YOU. Living is hard enough so be kind to yourself.
I must say that I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Their banter alone was rousing, and their dynamic is swoon-worthy.... And let's not forget Scottie—who never fails to put a smile on my face whenever he opens his mouth.
June 14, 2023
On Thin Ice by L.A. Cotton
Lakeshore U book no. 2
🤍 hockey player
🤍 coach's daughter
🤍 enemies to lovers
🤍 chronic illness rep
Hockey player Mason Steele is quite the grump. He doesn't let a lot of people into his inner circle and certainly doesn't have time for a relationship. So, when he first meets Harper Dixon he assumes the worst about her and treats her rather unfairly. Their mutual friends are dating so they're forced into each others company often, creating lots of tension between them.
When his father left, Mason took on the responsibility of looking out for his mom and brother Scottie who has autism. He worries about them alot when he's not with them and wants to make sure they're taken care of. Harper has a very strained relationship with her hockey coach father (who's an alcoholic) and is shocked when he shows up at their college as the new assistant coach. She also has a chronic illness - celiac disease. Both Mason and Harper are dealing with a lot and they inevitably bond because of these things.
Mason spent half this story being quite the jerk to Harper (which I didn’t understand why) so I never fully warmed to his character. I loved Harper though and her bond with Scottie (Mason's brother) was so special. This was a very angst filled and fast paced read and the audiobook narrators (Teddy Hamilton and Stella Hunter) really brought these characters to life.
Thank you to Forever and Always PR for the audio arc, all opinions are my own.
Lakeshore U book no. 2
🤍 hockey player
🤍 coach's daughter
🤍 enemies to lovers
🤍 chronic illness rep
Hockey player Mason Steele is quite the grump. He doesn't let a lot of people into his inner circle and certainly doesn't have time for a relationship. So, when he first meets Harper Dixon he assumes the worst about her and treats her rather unfairly. Their mutual friends are dating so they're forced into each others company often, creating lots of tension between them.
When his father left, Mason took on the responsibility of looking out for his mom and brother Scottie who has autism. He worries about them alot when he's not with them and wants to make sure they're taken care of. Harper has a very strained relationship with her hockey coach father (who's an alcoholic) and is shocked when he shows up at their college as the new assistant coach. She also has a chronic illness - celiac disease. Both Mason and Harper are dealing with a lot and they inevitably bond because of these things.
Mason spent half this story being quite the jerk to Harper (which I didn’t understand why) so I never fully warmed to his character. I loved Harper though and her bond with Scottie (Mason's brother) was so special. This was a very angst filled and fast paced read and the audiobook narrators (Teddy Hamilton and Stella Hunter) really brought these characters to life.
Thank you to Forever and Always PR for the audio arc, all opinions are my own.
June 16, 2023
On Thin Ice is the second book in the Lakeshore U series. This book is told from dual points of view from Harper and Mason. When I started listening to this, I didn't realize it was book two, so I'm going to go back and read book one.
I really enjoyed this book. Way more than I thought I would. Both characters are going through their own battles. Harper has something that happens when she eats certain stuff, and it resonates with me as my daughter has the same thing. Mason cares for his brother which also resonates with me, as his brother has something my son has. It really pulled my heartstrings reading it.
Mason wants nothing to do with Harper, but Harper keeps showing up in his life. Harper's dad also comes into the picture, and Mason realizes there is more to their relationship than he originally thought.
I really enjoyed this book, and seeing the banter, the push and pull, and just how the characters treated each other. Mason is being pulled two ways with his hockey as well.
I can't wait to continue with this series.
I really enjoyed this book. Way more than I thought I would. Both characters are going through their own battles. Harper has something that happens when she eats certain stuff, and it resonates with me as my daughter has the same thing. Mason cares for his brother which also resonates with me, as his brother has something my son has. It really pulled my heartstrings reading it.
Mason wants nothing to do with Harper, but Harper keeps showing up in his life. Harper's dad also comes into the picture, and Mason realizes there is more to their relationship than he originally thought.
I really enjoyed this book, and seeing the banter, the push and pull, and just how the characters treated each other. Mason is being pulled two ways with his hockey as well.
I can't wait to continue with this series.
June 25, 2023
** ARC REVIEW **
L.A.!!! You truly know how to write a book!! Just like the previous book, I was completely hooked!! I absolutely LOVED it and cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
First off can we just appreciate the representation for having an estranged relationship with a parent/parents and the AMAZING rep for autism?! This was the FIRST book I have read that had so much rep for autism. Also Scottie is the absolute sweetest kid!
This book was fantastic in every way. The writing was phenomenal & the plot was perfect!
What made this book 20 times better was how Mason & Harper’s characters grew through out the story! Both of them put in a lot of work, ESPECIALLY Mason. Mason was a complete and total asshole until he showed his true colors and he actually turned out to be super sweet and caring and SUPER protective.
I definitely would recommend this book and the series! I can’t wait to see what all the other books hold & how those stories will turn out.
4.75⭐️ 2.5🌶️
**Book two of the Lakeshore U series.
L.A.!!! You truly know how to write a book!! Just like the previous book, I was completely hooked!! I absolutely LOVED it and cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
First off can we just appreciate the representation for having an estranged relationship with a parent/parents and the AMAZING rep for autism?! This was the FIRST book I have read that had so much rep for autism. Also Scottie is the absolute sweetest kid!
This book was fantastic in every way. The writing was phenomenal & the plot was perfect!
What made this book 20 times better was how Mason & Harper’s characters grew through out the story! Both of them put in a lot of work, ESPECIALLY Mason. Mason was a complete and total asshole until he showed his true colors and he actually turned out to be super sweet and caring and SUPER protective.
I definitely would recommend this book and the series! I can’t wait to see what all the other books hold & how those stories will turn out.
4.75⭐️ 2.5🌶️
**Book two of the Lakeshore U series.
June 11, 2023
“Mason Steele was the man I never saw coming…”
What to expect:
🏒Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒Coach’s Daughter
🏒Opposites Attract
🏒Hate-to-want-her
🏒Hockey Team Shenanigans
I’ve been dying to read Mason’s story since it was announced that his book would be next and I have to say it didn’t disappoint!
This series is definitely shaping up to be one of my top college sports romances 🫶🏼💜
As always, with most books, I’d recommend you search up CW/TW before reading.
Mason & Harper are classic grumpy/sunshine.
Mason’s brother Scottie is one of my favourite side characters 🥹🫶🏼
Thank you @authorlacotton for the ARC!
I can’t wait for the next release!
What to expect:
🏒Grumpy/Sunshine
🏒Coach’s Daughter
🏒Opposites Attract
🏒Hate-to-want-her
🏒Hockey Team Shenanigans
I’ve been dying to read Mason’s story since it was announced that his book would be next and I have to say it didn’t disappoint!
This series is definitely shaping up to be one of my top college sports romances 🫶🏼💜
As always, with most books, I’d recommend you search up CW/TW before reading.
Mason & Harper are classic grumpy/sunshine.
Mason’s brother Scottie is one of my favourite side characters 🥹🫶🏼
Thank you @authorlacotton for the ARC!
I can’t wait for the next release!
June 22, 2023
In the beginning, I have to admit that I could not stand Mason. I thought he was a big jerk; especially with the way that he spoke to Harper. I felt really bad for Harper. Not only was she getting it from her father but Mason as well. However, the way that Mason interacted with his younger brother, Scottie won me over. I warmed up to him much better.
The relationship between Harper and Mason is more of a slow burn. Yet, when they finally cross that line and become a couple, that is when the heat gets turned up. From here on out, I could not get enough of Mason and Harper. My favorite though is Scottie. The things he would say kept me laughing.
The relationship between Harper and Mason is more of a slow burn. Yet, when they finally cross that line and become a couple, that is when the heat gets turned up. From here on out, I could not get enough of Mason and Harper. My favorite though is Scottie. The things he would say kept me laughing.
January 25, 2025
3.75 "Mason brother" stars
Mason Steele is my type of hero, except he's young. LOL. he is protective, serious, responsible, and a bit bossy. Usually this combo does not win me over in a younger, college/NA hero, because I prefer it more in older MFCs, who have more of a handle on possession and have more dominion over their lives.
Yet, Mason Steele is just starting, pursuing his goal to play hockey, while finishing college. He also has a strong sense of family and obligation since his dad left him, his mom, and his autistic brother when Mason was 12 years old. Therefore, Mason only feels right, being 90min away from them, if he continues to be there to help his mom and be a very involved and present big brother to his brother, Scottie, who is a high functioning, but still has trouble being "different," and growing into his own.
Due to his commitments, Mason has no time for romantic entanglements.
So, turning Harper Dixon down when she makes a shy and hopeful advance is keeping with Mason's MO, not to mention he thinks she is just like the other girls who just want a jock. But, through having the same friend circle and due to the fact that Harper, who is studying to be a teacher, ends up working with Scottie at a kids' program, Mason feels like Harper is everywhere he looks, and he starts noticing there's more to Harper than what he judged on the surface.
Harper and Mason's relationship builds off a premise of mutual compassion. Mason becomes very protective of Harper also. He swoops in as her savior at her most embarrassing times and at her most vulnerable. Mason is strong in his convictions, and he knows that if he goes there with Harper, she's gotta be real. The reader knows Harper is very genuine, but a bit broken; she just makes bad decisions sometimes. Yet, Mason learns this by degrees, and he doesn't take long to get a clue.
I liked that Mason didn't fight it too long and once he acts? Oh, he acts! There's some steam, but no secrets, no wallowing in misunderstandings. And Harper seemed just down for the ride, because she really was a goner for him at day dot.
She falls first; then he falls harder.
(Not much direct conflict, low angst; but I wanted more depth to the scenes that were pivotal. more depth to the progression of their future lives too.)
Happy Reading.
Mason Steele is my type of hero, except he's young. LOL. he is protective, serious, responsible, and a bit bossy. Usually this combo does not win me over in a younger, college/NA hero, because I prefer it more in older MFCs, who have more of a handle on possession and have more dominion over their lives.
Yet, Mason Steele is just starting, pursuing his goal to play hockey, while finishing college. He also has a strong sense of family and obligation since his dad left him, his mom, and his autistic brother when Mason was 12 years old. Therefore, Mason only feels right, being 90min away from them, if he continues to be there to help his mom and be a very involved and present big brother to his brother, Scottie, who is a high functioning, but still has trouble being "different," and growing into his own.
Due to his commitments, Mason has no time for romantic entanglements.
So, turning Harper Dixon down when she makes a shy and hopeful advance is keeping with Mason's MO, not to mention he thinks she is just like the other girls who just want a jock. But, through having the same friend circle and due to the fact that Harper, who is studying to be a teacher, ends up working with Scottie at a kids' program, Mason feels like Harper is everywhere he looks, and he starts noticing there's more to Harper than what he judged on the surface.
Harper and Mason's relationship builds off a premise of mutual compassion. Mason becomes very protective of Harper also. He swoops in as her savior at her most embarrassing times and at her most vulnerable. Mason is strong in his convictions, and he knows that if he goes there with Harper, she's gotta be real. The reader knows Harper is very genuine, but a bit broken; she just makes bad decisions sometimes. Yet, Mason learns this by degrees, and he doesn't take long to get a clue.
I liked that Mason didn't fight it too long and once he acts? Oh, he acts! There's some steam, but no secrets, no wallowing in misunderstandings. And Harper seemed just down for the ride, because she really was a goner for him at day dot.
She falls first; then he falls harder.
(Not much direct conflict, low angst; but I wanted more depth to the scenes that were pivotal. more depth to the progression of their future lives too.)
Happy Reading.
June 22, 2023
I liked this book, but come on, Noah Baby is my number one 🫶🏻
I liked the story of this couple, both together and individually, their stories touched my heart and more than once my eyes filled with tears. Mason with his family is something to admire, he thought about them and how his future could affect them all, but he also didn't want to leave what he loved the most and that is hockey; on the other hand Harper my girl, in the first book I had my doubts about her and now I know her whole story, her family problems made me want to hug her all the time; besides seeing Aurora being such a good friend and how she has grown in the storyline fills me with happiness 🥺
It was a good read, fast and most of all full of beautiful and REAL moments. Of course there were Mason's actions that I didn't like because I think he was mean to Harper at first and how he tried to hide her feelings and the attraction he had for her made me have some doubts.
I liked it, I enjoyed it and most of all I was more excited with the epilogue that the author gave us!!!
🫂 Thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for my honest review 📚!!
____________________________
Este libro me gusto, pero vamos que Noah bebe es mi número uno.
La historia de este par me gusto, tanto juntos como individuales sus historias llegaron a mi corazón y en más de una ocasión mis ojos se llenaron de lágrimas. Mason y su familia es algo de admirar, pensaba en ellos y como su futuro podría afectarlos a todos ellos pero tampoco quería dejar lo que más le gustaba y eso es el Hockey; por otro lado Harper mi niña, en el primer libro tenía mis dudas sobre ella y aca conocer toda su historia, sus problemas familiares me hicieron querer abrazarla todo el tiempo; además de ver a Aurora siendo tan buena amiga y ver como ha crecido en la historia me llena de felicidad.
Fue una buena lectura, rápida y sobre todo llena de momentos encantadores y REALES. Eso sí, hubieron acciones de Mason que no me gustaron ya que siento que estaba siendo muy duro con Harper al principio y tratar de ocultar sus sentimientos y esa atracción que tenía hacia ella me tenía con ciertas dudas.
A pesar de eso me gustó, lo disfruté y sobre todo quedé más ansiosa con ese epílogo que nos dieron!!!
I liked the story of this couple, both together and individually, their stories touched my heart and more than once my eyes filled with tears. Mason with his family is something to admire, he thought about them and how his future could affect them all, but he also didn't want to leave what he loved the most and that is hockey; on the other hand Harper my girl, in the first book I had my doubts about her and now I know her whole story, her family problems made me want to hug her all the time; besides seeing Aurora being such a good friend and how she has grown in the storyline fills me with happiness 🥺
It was a good read, fast and most of all full of beautiful and REAL moments. Of course there were Mason's actions that I didn't like because I think he was mean to Harper at first and how he tried to hide her feelings and the attraction he had for her made me have some doubts.
I liked it, I enjoyed it and most of all I was more excited with the epilogue that the author gave us!!!
🫂 Thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for my honest review 📚!!
____________________________
Este libro me gusto, pero vamos que Noah bebe es mi número uno.
La historia de este par me gusto, tanto juntos como individuales sus historias llegaron a mi corazón y en más de una ocasión mis ojos se llenaron de lágrimas. Mason y su familia es algo de admirar, pensaba en ellos y como su futuro podría afectarlos a todos ellos pero tampoco quería dejar lo que más le gustaba y eso es el Hockey; por otro lado Harper mi niña, en el primer libro tenía mis dudas sobre ella y aca conocer toda su historia, sus problemas familiares me hicieron querer abrazarla todo el tiempo; además de ver a Aurora siendo tan buena amiga y ver como ha crecido en la historia me llena de felicidad.
Fue una buena lectura, rápida y sobre todo llena de momentos encantadores y REALES. Eso sí, hubieron acciones de Mason que no me gustaron ya que siento que estaba siendo muy duro con Harper al principio y tratar de ocultar sus sentimientos y esa atracción que tenía hacia ella me tenía con ciertas dudas.
A pesar de eso me gustó, lo disfruté y sobre todo quedé más ansiosa con ese epílogo que nos dieron!!!
June 24, 2023
4.5☆ Mason and Harper
I really enjoyed this story, I definitely thought Aurora's story couldn't be topped, but Mason and Harper really pulled me into their angst filled world. Both carry a lot of baggage in the form of trauma and boundaries, but the way they found someone that really understood them in each other was really beautiful. For the other, they became the person they didn't know they needed. ♡
Harper is generally too much for everyone, too loud, too talkative, just too much. Searching for even a sliver of attention in all the wrong places she can often come off desperate but when you've been starved your whole life you'll do anything for a tiny crumb even if it's only temporary. Mason doesn't have time for much. With a busy life both on and off the ice he's just trying to decide between the dream and being there for his family who need him and his brother who he refuses to be another person in his life to let him down. Their paths cross through mutual friends but Mason is cold as ice towards Harper, he knows her type clingy, needy puck bunny who will do anything to claim they spent a night in the sheets with one of Lakeshore U's campus stars. Harper can't understand why Mason hates her so much when friendly is just her mask of happiness she hides behind. When Harper volunteers at a place away from college, the last person she expects to see is Mason, and now they have another mutual party. Mason's brother. Who just so happens to attend the center Harper is volunteering at. Whilst many around Mason know about his brother, he's shocked to find how good Harper is with him. And now Harper is digging further under his skin. He tells himself that one night is all it'll take to get her out of his system, but everyone can see from a mile away how wrong he is. Harper and Mason are more alike than they know, and maybe if they just allow themselves to fall this time, they'll have someone to catch them.
Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
I really enjoyed this story, I definitely thought Aurora's story couldn't be topped, but Mason and Harper really pulled me into their angst filled world. Both carry a lot of baggage in the form of trauma and boundaries, but the way they found someone that really understood them in each other was really beautiful. For the other, they became the person they didn't know they needed. ♡
Harper is generally too much for everyone, too loud, too talkative, just too much. Searching for even a sliver of attention in all the wrong places she can often come off desperate but when you've been starved your whole life you'll do anything for a tiny crumb even if it's only temporary. Mason doesn't have time for much. With a busy life both on and off the ice he's just trying to decide between the dream and being there for his family who need him and his brother who he refuses to be another person in his life to let him down. Their paths cross through mutual friends but Mason is cold as ice towards Harper, he knows her type clingy, needy puck bunny who will do anything to claim they spent a night in the sheets with one of Lakeshore U's campus stars. Harper can't understand why Mason hates her so much when friendly is just her mask of happiness she hides behind. When Harper volunteers at a place away from college, the last person she expects to see is Mason, and now they have another mutual party. Mason's brother. Who just so happens to attend the center Harper is volunteering at. Whilst many around Mason know about his brother, he's shocked to find how good Harper is with him. And now Harper is digging further under his skin. He tells himself that one night is all it'll take to get her out of his system, but everyone can see from a mile away how wrong he is. Harper and Mason are more alike than they know, and maybe if they just allow themselves to fall this time, they'll have someone to catch them.
Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
June 23, 2023
☆ 4.5/5 & 3/5 spice
I’m completely obsessed with this entire series! A perfect balance of wonderful characters, storyline, spice, and strong friendship dynamics. Lianne always does a wonderful job showcasing mental health representations in her book. Another wonderful book that is full of emotion and heartwarming moments.
This book follows Harper Dixon and Mason Steele. Harper is a very bold, sassy, outgoing, and care-free person. She struggles with opening up and letting people in because she’s been disappointed many times by people in her life.
Mason, towards the beginning was a complete grump, who’s arrogant, broody, and am alphahole. He made me so frustrated with how he acted toward Harper. Mason assumed that Harper was a puck bunny and would say the most hurtful things to her. He would give her the cold shoulder and tried his best to avoid her at all cost, but since their best friends are dating, they are forced to be around each other. Harper got under his skin, but he soon realized that he liked her a bit more than as a friend and thought that he might’ve been a bit too quick with his judgement. Although Mason is seen as a grump, he has a soft spot for Scottie, his little brother, his mom, and Harper! I love seeing that soft side to him — how he was so patient, loving, and understanding with Scottie.
It made me so freaking happy when they both realized that they were falling for each other. It warmed my heart so much to see the friendship that Harper formed with Mason’s little brother as well.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
Tropes:
❥ Hockey romance
❥ Enemies to lovers
❥ Grumpy x sunshine
❥ Coach's daughter
❥ Opposites attract
I’m completely obsessed with this entire series! A perfect balance of wonderful characters, storyline, spice, and strong friendship dynamics. Lianne always does a wonderful job showcasing mental health representations in her book. Another wonderful book that is full of emotion and heartwarming moments.
This book follows Harper Dixon and Mason Steele. Harper is a very bold, sassy, outgoing, and care-free person. She struggles with opening up and letting people in because she’s been disappointed many times by people in her life.
Mason, towards the beginning was a complete grump, who’s arrogant, broody, and am alphahole. He made me so frustrated with how he acted toward Harper. Mason assumed that Harper was a puck bunny and would say the most hurtful things to her. He would give her the cold shoulder and tried his best to avoid her at all cost, but since their best friends are dating, they are forced to be around each other. Harper got under his skin, but he soon realized that he liked her a bit more than as a friend and thought that he might’ve been a bit too quick with his judgement. Although Mason is seen as a grump, he has a soft spot for Scottie, his little brother, his mom, and Harper! I love seeing that soft side to him — how he was so patient, loving, and understanding with Scottie.
It made me so freaking happy when they both realized that they were falling for each other. It warmed my heart so much to see the friendship that Harper formed with Mason’s little brother as well.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
Tropes:
❥ Hockey romance
❥ Enemies to lovers
❥ Grumpy x sunshine
❥ Coach's daughter
❥ Opposites attract
June 21, 2023
“Mason Steele was the storm I never saw coming, but by God, if I didn’t mind being swept up in its wreckage.”
On Thin Ice is Harper and Mason’s story, who we met in the first book of the series. Right when they meet, Mason instantly dislikes Harper, as he assumes she’s just another puck bunny, but he does feel a pull towards her. Harper has emotional trauma from her terrible relationship with her father, so all she wants is to be wanted and loved. Mason doesn’t want any attachments, as he devotes all his spare time to his mother and autistic brother. When he learns that Harper is volunteering at his brothers program, he gets to see she is more than he assumed. As much as he tries to fight their attraction, he can’t, so they agree on one night together to work each other out of their systems. But we all know that never works.
I loved how the characters brought out the best in each other, Harper showing Mason he could have more than he thought, and him showing her she deserved to be loved for who she is. The progression of their relationship felt really real. The other characters brought great humour and banter and I’m so looking forward to the next book in this series!
On Thin Ice is Harper and Mason’s story, who we met in the first book of the series. Right when they meet, Mason instantly dislikes Harper, as he assumes she’s just another puck bunny, but he does feel a pull towards her. Harper has emotional trauma from her terrible relationship with her father, so all she wants is to be wanted and loved. Mason doesn’t want any attachments, as he devotes all his spare time to his mother and autistic brother. When he learns that Harper is volunteering at his brothers program, he gets to see she is more than he assumed. As much as he tries to fight their attraction, he can’t, so they agree on one night together to work each other out of their systems. But we all know that never works.
I loved how the characters brought out the best in each other, Harper showing Mason he could have more than he thought, and him showing her she deserved to be loved for who she is. The progression of their relationship felt really real. The other characters brought great humour and banter and I’m so looking forward to the next book in this series!
June 21, 2023
3.5⭐️
•••
I haven’t really liked any of the books in this series so far so I was pleasantly surprised when I read this one bc I actually really liked it.
In the previous books we’ve seen the main characters and from what I’ve read previously I didn’t like them but in this book I liked them. Well I liked Harper I still don’t know about Mason though.
I have mixed feelings about Mason. He was a dick to Harper for the majority of the book and I didn’t like him at all. Then he’d have these sweet moments and he was okay ig.
Harper on the other hand I loved. She could do sm better than Mason tbh but it is what it is!
The story itself was interesting and I could not put the book down. I’d say it was a pretty good book, the best one so far in the series.
The last 20% wasn’t my favorite. The Jennie drama was unnecessary and there was absolutely zero groveling. If it wasn’t for that I’m pretty sure I would’ve given this book a solid four stars.
Still it was an enjoyable read and I think this series will only go up from here so I’m excited for the next book!
Thank you to L.A Cotton for providing me with this ARC!
•••
I haven’t really liked any of the books in this series so far so I was pleasantly surprised when I read this one bc I actually really liked it.
In the previous books we’ve seen the main characters and from what I’ve read previously I didn’t like them but in this book I liked them. Well I liked Harper I still don’t know about Mason though.
I have mixed feelings about Mason. He was a dick to Harper for the majority of the book and I didn’t like him at all. Then he’d have these sweet moments and he was okay ig.
Harper on the other hand I loved. She could do sm better than Mason tbh but it is what it is!
The story itself was interesting and I could not put the book down. I’d say it was a pretty good book, the best one so far in the series.
The last 20% wasn’t my favorite. The Jennie drama was unnecessary and there was absolutely zero groveling. If it wasn’t for that I’m pretty sure I would’ve given this book a solid four stars.
Still it was an enjoyable read and I think this series will only go up from here so I’m excited for the next book!
Thank you to L.A Cotton for providing me with this ARC!
June 20, 2023
Actual Rating 3.5 stars
Okay, let’s get the one thing that brought my rating down out of the way, Mason Steele. His behavior for the majority of the book was awful. I saw nothing to justify his behavior and by the time he turned it around, in my eyes it was too late. The only thing that I appreciated about him was his love and protectiveness over his little brother, Scottie.
Speaking of Scottie, he was a real bright spot in the book for me! I loved him and every time there was a scene with him in it I had a big smile on my face. And his relationship with Harper was so sweet.
Onto our heroine, Harper, I adored her. She was the kind of person to wear her heart on her sleeve and she was so loyal and kind. Although she had some trouble forming relationships at the beginning of the book, I enjoyed watching her discover her worth and form new bonds!
Another aspect I loved from the book was the side characters! Mason’s teammates were amazing and so supportive and so was Harper’s friends. I especially had fun catching up with Noah and Aurora from the previous book in the series.
Overall, I think this was a good edition to the series and I will definitely be continuing on with it!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
Okay, let’s get the one thing that brought my rating down out of the way, Mason Steele. His behavior for the majority of the book was awful. I saw nothing to justify his behavior and by the time he turned it around, in my eyes it was too late. The only thing that I appreciated about him was his love and protectiveness over his little brother, Scottie.
Speaking of Scottie, he was a real bright spot in the book for me! I loved him and every time there was a scene with him in it I had a big smile on my face. And his relationship with Harper was so sweet.
Onto our heroine, Harper, I adored her. She was the kind of person to wear her heart on her sleeve and she was so loyal and kind. Although she had some trouble forming relationships at the beginning of the book, I enjoyed watching her discover her worth and form new bonds!
Another aspect I loved from the book was the side characters! Mason’s teammates were amazing and so supportive and so was Harper’s friends. I especially had fun catching up with Noah and Aurora from the previous book in the series.
Overall, I think this was a good edition to the series and I will definitely be continuing on with it!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
October 27, 2023
I had high expectations for this book due to the buzz surrounding it, but it turned out to be a disappointment. I didn't sense any chemistry or connection between the characters, and both the story and the characters felt quite unmemorable🤷🏻♀️
The male main character (MMC) was incredibly aggravating and needlessly mean. He took an instant disliking towards the FMC without any justification and used to find her very "irritating" without her doing anything!!! The "hate to love" trope seemed forced and unnecessary. The only aspect I appreciated about the MMC was his caring and protective nature toward his younger brother.
As for the FMC, she was a sweet and affectionate person, but she didn't come across as someone who would stand up for herself. She seemed to have a major crush on the MMC and was willing to accept anything he offered without setting boundaries for her self-respect! It felt like he had complete control over the direction of their relationship, and she had very little say in it.
The male main character (MMC) was incredibly aggravating and needlessly mean. He took an instant disliking towards the FMC without any justification and used to find her very "irritating" without her doing anything!!! The "hate to love" trope seemed forced and unnecessary. The only aspect I appreciated about the MMC was his caring and protective nature toward his younger brother.
As for the FMC, she was a sweet and affectionate person, but she didn't come across as someone who would stand up for herself. She seemed to have a major crush on the MMC and was willing to accept anything he offered without setting boundaries for her self-respect! It felt like he had complete control over the direction of their relationship, and she had very little say in it.
April 26, 2024
4.3 stars- I’ve read some of the other reviews for this book and although I can agree on some opinions of Mason Steele, I can understand him through my own personal experiences. He comes off as hard and cold all the time which a lot of people don’t like but I think it truly shows more about his character and weight he holds. Growing up in a family that has a lot of issues with a younger sibling is always hard. It’s hard to put on a happy front or have to explain the hardships to them. For that, I love Mason’s character. As for Harper, she reminds me of myself a little. Always trying to find validation in a parent and always getting rejected. That puts a lot of hurt and pressure on a person who just wants to be seen by someone who loves her. You can say this book makes you mad and you hate the male character in the series but I love this book. I think it shows a realness to a persons experiences and how love can develop through that.
June 23, 2023
This is my favorite so far! LA just puts a really good feeling into the atmosphere for college hockey. Harper's dad ends up coaching Lakeshore U's hockey team. Mason is just a grumpy guy who thinks Harper is another puck bunny. Its a bit enemies to lovers BUT I have Mason is sooo cute with his brother Scottie who is autistic. Harper does activities with Scottie (who he has a crush on Harper).
Scottie just brought so much light to the story. I just really enjoyed Mason and Harper's relationship.
Narrators in duet were Stella Hunter and Teddy Hamilton and they were soooo good perfect for their characters and I really loved this duet version.
I received this audiobook at my request from Forever and Always PR and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Scottie just brought so much light to the story. I just really enjoyed Mason and Harper's relationship.
Narrators in duet were Stella Hunter and Teddy Hamilton and they were soooo good perfect for their characters and I really loved this duet version.
I received this audiobook at my request from Forever and Always PR and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
June 30, 2023
Lord have mercy on my Hockey obsessed ass… Mason may just be the grumpiest hockey mc of all time lmfao. His ass was HELL BENT on the grump, boi. but why did that make me love him even more? because it did.. so so did.
on more than one occasion I found myself saying “Mikayla, why do you have a sick feeling in your gut like this is real life and hes being grumpy towards you?” or “Mikayla, get your shit together, grumpy hockey daddy Mason isnt real.” sigh, such is life.
.
If youre like me, sometimes you need a break from the pew pews & stabbys. sometimes you need that cute, but also kind of gut wrenching, romance book about a totally grumpy hockey player and a totally relatable, but also not really cause never will this happen to me, college girl. no one come for my run on sentences okay, i leave the writing to the professionals.
but, this was a totally heart warming BINGE read 🩵
.
🏒 Grumpy x sunshine
🏒 Coach's daughter
🏒 Opposites attract
🏒 Hate-to-want-her
🏒 Hockey team shenanigans
.
.
on more than one occasion I found myself saying “Mikayla, why do you have a sick feeling in your gut like this is real life and hes being grumpy towards you?” or “Mikayla, get your shit together, grumpy hockey daddy Mason isnt real.” sigh, such is life.
.
If youre like me, sometimes you need a break from the pew pews & stabbys. sometimes you need that cute, but also kind of gut wrenching, romance book about a totally grumpy hockey player and a totally relatable, but also not really cause never will this happen to me, college girl. no one come for my run on sentences okay, i leave the writing to the professionals.
but, this was a totally heart warming BINGE read 🩵
.
🏒 Grumpy x sunshine
🏒 Coach's daughter
🏒 Opposites attract
🏒 Hate-to-want-her
🏒 Hockey team shenanigans
.
.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews