What do you think?
Rate this book
Ice League #6
Our Bender
You know those videos people get tagged in that are like - “If your boyfriend is named Garrett and he was at Firebird on 11/3… Sorry, but he’s cheating on you”?
Well, it sucks to be the fiancée at home being cheated on; it sucks worse getting tagged a million times while trying to forget about the whole thing and sleep.
So can you really blame me for going live on social media and getting drunk while destroying my fiance’s (ope– ex-fiance’s) fancy hockey suits and apartment?
Whatever. It happened. And it would’ve been fine if it weren’t for the fact that I’m a teacher and the now viral video will probably get me fired.
At least I already know what I’ll tell my administration about the Moving forward, I promise to avoid hockey players at all costs.
I finally masterminded my life to be I share a loft with my buddies, play on a dream hockey team, and am finally living close enough to visit my older brother all the time.
So when my stupid fortune cookie reads that I should “beware of strange changes in the last days of the year” and that “bad luck will haunt you to allow for good fortune in the new year”... well, I freak out. I am the most superstitious guy on my hockey team, so can you really blame me?
Fast-forward to me getting absolutely brickwalled by a goalie at my next game, and then being forced to participate in a school reading in the name of community outreach– I hate school.
I tried to grin and bear it with the whole school thing, I really did, but when my friends start teasing me that I don't know how to read in front of the hottest teacher I’ve ever seen… Well, I stupidly volunteer to read.
And my reading time was going really well… Until a kid’s snot-rocket landed right on my shoe and I said, oh fudgeeee. Unfortunately, I did not say the word ‘fudge’, if you know what I mean.
Now the hot teacher is yelling at me to wait in the hall.
And I just know the bad luck and “strange changes” aren’t going to stop here. I just wonder if the rest of the changes will be good or bad…
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2023
About the author
S.C. Kate
13 books465 followersAs a former competitive figure skater, S.C. Kate grew up in rinks and loves them as settings for her contemporary sports romance stories. She lives in metro-Detroit and still frequents arenas to cheer on her siblings during hockey games.
When not writing, she is obsessed with outdoor skating, iced coffee, and traveling around Northern Michigan.
When not writing, she is obsessed with outdoor skating, iced coffee, and traveling around Northern Michigan.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
January 21, 2024
I’m writing this review like a week or so after I finished it so forgive me for the lack of detail. I quite literally forgot every aspect of this book and I’m fairly sure that was 100% intentional on my subconscious’ part.
PSA, I’m not here to yuck anybody’s yum… and if you enjoy the book then I’m glad for you.
But I just absolutely did not like it. It was okay for the first like two thirds of the book. I didn’t feel a lot of palpable chemistry between the two main characters, but that usually is common for the beginning of books. So I held out expecting it to get better… news flash, it did not.
Second off, I just really dislike the main characters personality.. like we’re able to experience her inner monologue yet that somehow doesn’t help any of her actions/thoughts make sense? It’s bizarre.
And here’s where it gets really bad, not only are those two points glaringly obvious and hard to ignore- you will then be badgered by a random ass child popping out of no where. I dislike that the other woman at the beginning made no sense.. and that her relation to the second M/C was not clear until a literal prepubescent child pops up and clarifies it all later. Sorry if that’s a spoiler but if I’d known about it beforehand I would’ve saved $15 on this book. It just makes really no sense, and had me like yelling out loud about how much I hated the direction it was going in.
I’m mostly all for the he falls, she’s reluctant, but then she falls harder- then some life shit gets in the way and he’s gotta step back; and she realizes how much of an idiot she is. But it’s also painfully annoying when done incorrectly… which is like 99% of instances with that structure of trope.
Again I’m not a hater I was just disappointed with this book, (was hyped based off some reels I’d seen.) But I didn’t relate to the characters, or feel anything was worth reading for. Hardly even got through the ending, if I’m honest I’m not even sure that I actually did.
Maybe I’m just picky.
PSA, I’m not here to yuck anybody’s yum… and if you enjoy the book then I’m glad for you.
But I just absolutely did not like it. It was okay for the first like two thirds of the book. I didn’t feel a lot of palpable chemistry between the two main characters, but that usually is common for the beginning of books. So I held out expecting it to get better… news flash, it did not.
Second off, I just really dislike the main characters personality.. like we’re able to experience her inner monologue yet that somehow doesn’t help any of her actions/thoughts make sense? It’s bizarre.
And here’s where it gets really bad, not only are those two points glaringly obvious and hard to ignore- you will then be badgered by a random ass child popping out of no where. I dislike that the other woman at the beginning made no sense.. and that her relation to the second M/C was not clear until a literal prepubescent child pops up and clarifies it all later. Sorry if that’s a spoiler but if I’d known about it beforehand I would’ve saved $15 on this book. It just makes really no sense, and had me like yelling out loud about how much I hated the direction it was going in.
I’m mostly all for the he falls, she’s reluctant, but then she falls harder- then some life shit gets in the way and he’s gotta step back; and she realizes how much of an idiot she is. But it’s also painfully annoying when done incorrectly… which is like 99% of instances with that structure of trope.
Again I’m not a hater I was just disappointed with this book, (was hyped based off some reels I’d seen.) But I didn’t relate to the characters, or feel anything was worth reading for. Hardly even got through the ending, if I’m honest I’m not even sure that I actually did.
Maybe I’m just picky.
January 14, 2024
Very cute, but good GLORY this woman needs to fire her editor. There were an embarrassing amount of very basic grammatical errors, and several parts that were extremely confusingly worded. With a stronger editor to spot clean, this definitely could have been four stars.
December 18, 2023
2.5 stars
I know it's the last book in the series, but it's the first I ever read. The premise sounded like something I could also enjoy even though this genre is not really my typical read. But with Christmas around the corner- why not give it a (slap) shot?
For me, this was a largely unsatisfying read. Not because of it's predictability, but because of the writing style and language. I don't mind the swearing, but the conversations were dull and the or characters thoughts even more so. Neither Josie nor Tyler really captivated me and the weird pre-face story nine years before the actual story starts confused me for the longest time (but not in a good suspenseful way)- like? why was it there? Weird.
Thanks for reading this review.
Should you be an ice hockey lover looking for a quick romance fix and someone who doesn't mind repetitive patterns and running-in-circles-plot lines then ...this is for you.
I know it's the last book in the series, but it's the first I ever read. The premise sounded like something I could also enjoy even though this genre is not really my typical read. But with Christmas around the corner- why not give it a (slap) shot?
For me, this was a largely unsatisfying read. Not because of it's predictability, but because of the writing style and language. I don't mind the swearing, but the conversations were dull and the or characters thoughts even more so. Neither Josie nor Tyler really captivated me and the weird pre-face story nine years before the actual story starts confused me for the longest time (but not in a good suspenseful way)- like? why was it there? Weird.
Thanks for reading this review.
Should you be an ice hockey lover looking for a quick romance fix and someone who doesn't mind repetitive patterns and running-in-circles-plot lines then ...this is for you.
December 3, 2023
THE PERFECT ENDING TO THIS SERIES! I found the author on tiktok and was hooked from book 1. I had the amazing privilege of reading this book in advance and was not disappointed. I don’t want to spoil anything but Josie and Tyler’s story was heartwarming and refreshing. It made me giddy and excited for fictional characters. There was some unknowns and unexpected events that happened throughout the book that kept me wanting to read.
SC Kate does such a great job with the hockey/figure skating details. As a retired competitive figure skater myself, it is so nice to read a book with knowledge of the sport. I love how everything all came together and the series ended perfectly.
I hope you all enjoy this read as much as I did.
SC Kate does such a great job with the hockey/figure skating details. As a retired competitive figure skater myself, it is so nice to read a book with knowledge of the sport. I love how everything all came together and the series ended perfectly.
I hope you all enjoy this read as much as I did.
December 17, 2023
I got about 28% through the book and could not stand Josie. I enjoyed some of the banter between the players but a lot of the commentary felt juvenile and too child like for adults.
January 28, 2024
wattpad writing
January 1, 2025
DNF at 70%. I was doing great at first. The story was alright. It was nothing amazing, but at least it was keeping me interested. Then at around the 60% mark, we are suddenly hit OUT OF NOWHERE with the MMC having a long lost child?? Now the book is about him bonding with his child.
I’m actually kind of amazed at how fast this book went from a 3 stars to a 0 for me. Got bored so fast.
I’m actually kind of amazed at how fast this book went from a 3 stars to a 0 for me. Got bored so fast.
March 28, 2026
Don’t waste your time. Here’s some recommendations that won’t be a waste of your time:
Elle Kennedy
Liz Tomforde
Becka Mack
S Massery
CR Jane
Elle Kennedy
Liz Tomforde
Becka Mack
S Massery
CR Jane
January 8, 2024
Our Bender
Our Bender hit the spot for the romance aspect and the golden retriever hockey character was spot on. The spice was not that high:/
Our Bender hit the spot for the romance aspect and the golden retriever hockey character was spot on. The spice was not that high:/
January 12, 2024
Tyler is a beast on the ice, and not much scares him. But when he accidentally curses in front of a class of second graders, the tiny teacher has him quaking in his skates. He’s been on the receiving end of a terrible bout of luck, and this last mistake is the icing on the cake. Nursing a bruised ego after her tongue lashing, Tyler is determined to make amends. Especially when he keeps running into Miss Josie after their encounter.
Josie HATES hockey players. After her hockey playing ex publicly cheats on her, she goes viral for getting sweet sweet revenge on the jerk. Although it felt incredible at the time, in the light of day as the wine wears off she realizes just how much she can’t afford a scandal as a teacher. Her dad helps whisk her away to a new apartment where she can nurse her wounds. For a moment she breathes a sigh of relief… until she realizes who her neighbors are…
Tyler and Josie were super cute together. Our Bender is an adorable friends to lovers story. These two unlikely friends meet each other and can’t deny their instant connection. There’s so many reasons they shouldn’t let their friendship evolve, but the more they try to fight it the more they flock towards each other.
I couldn’t help but smile as I made my way through this book. It’s such an easy series to read and each book is filled with cuteness overload. This book was jam packed with so much heart and plenty of action to move the story along. Especially within this wholesome group of friends. The way they immediately stepped up for each other no matter what, warmed my heart. I couldn’t guess where this storyline was going, and I loved every twist. I highly recommend this is you’re searching for a new hockey series to binge. It’s simple in the best way, and the easiest world to fall into.
Josie HATES hockey players. After her hockey playing ex publicly cheats on her, she goes viral for getting sweet sweet revenge on the jerk. Although it felt incredible at the time, in the light of day as the wine wears off she realizes just how much she can’t afford a scandal as a teacher. Her dad helps whisk her away to a new apartment where she can nurse her wounds. For a moment she breathes a sigh of relief… until she realizes who her neighbors are…
Tyler and Josie were super cute together. Our Bender is an adorable friends to lovers story. These two unlikely friends meet each other and can’t deny their instant connection. There’s so many reasons they shouldn’t let their friendship evolve, but the more they try to fight it the more they flock towards each other.
I couldn’t help but smile as I made my way through this book. It’s such an easy series to read and each book is filled with cuteness overload. This book was jam packed with so much heart and plenty of action to move the story along. Especially within this wholesome group of friends. The way they immediately stepped up for each other no matter what, warmed my heart. I couldn’t guess where this storyline was going, and I loved every twist. I highly recommend this is you’re searching for a new hockey series to binge. It’s simple in the best way, and the easiest world to fall into.
December 15, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy release day to this amazing book!
I first discovered S.C. Kate and her books earlier this year through a reel of her gorgeous skating! The premise of Our Overtime drew me in and I've devoured all of her books since. I know I can count on one of her books to get me out of a slump and I could hardly wait to read Our Bender! I was so excited to be selected for an ARC!
Readers are familiar with Tyler from previous books in the series but I was intrigued to know more and also discover his happy ever after. I LIVED for the pop culture references in this book (Taylor Swift, the MTV Ryan Gosling/Rachel McAdams kiss I DIE).
I loved how S.C. wrote Tyler's character and his relentless pursuit of Josie. I loved how he never gave up and kept consistently showing up for her. And let me tell you, I DID NOT see the twist coming. Trust me, you'll want to check this one out!
Read if you like:
🏒hockey romance
🏒found family
🏒he falls first and HARD
🏒coach's daughter
🏒unexpected plot twists
🏒happily ever after
"So, you're gonna settle with Mr. Grey's Anatomy or some dentist or random accountant and live just fine and dull and stable...For what? To run the same risks as you would with me? Why not live in color 'til you can't? Then when things fall apart, wouldn't it at least be worth the heartbreak?"
On a more personal note, I have gotten to know S.C. more personally this year and I'm so grateful to have met someone that feels like she just gets me. I'm so grateful to have someone to bond with on things that feel niche and also share the best book recommendations 💕 I'm forever grateful we found each other on Instagram!
Happy release day to this amazing book!
I first discovered S.C. Kate and her books earlier this year through a reel of her gorgeous skating! The premise of Our Overtime drew me in and I've devoured all of her books since. I know I can count on one of her books to get me out of a slump and I could hardly wait to read Our Bender! I was so excited to be selected for an ARC!
Readers are familiar with Tyler from previous books in the series but I was intrigued to know more and also discover his happy ever after. I LIVED for the pop culture references in this book (Taylor Swift, the MTV Ryan Gosling/Rachel McAdams kiss I DIE).
I loved how S.C. wrote Tyler's character and his relentless pursuit of Josie. I loved how he never gave up and kept consistently showing up for her. And let me tell you, I DID NOT see the twist coming. Trust me, you'll want to check this one out!
Read if you like:
🏒hockey romance
🏒found family
🏒he falls first and HARD
🏒coach's daughter
🏒unexpected plot twists
🏒happily ever after
"So, you're gonna settle with Mr. Grey's Anatomy or some dentist or random accountant and live just fine and dull and stable...For what? To run the same risks as you would with me? Why not live in color 'til you can't? Then when things fall apart, wouldn't it at least be worth the heartbreak?"
On a more personal note, I have gotten to know S.C. more personally this year and I'm so grateful to have met someone that feels like she just gets me. I'm so grateful to have someone to bond with on things that feel niche and also share the best book recommendations 💕 I'm forever grateful we found each other on Instagram!
December 3, 2023
Tyler is a hockey kid who has played since he was a kid. In the beginning he talks about his past relationship with a girl that becomes very complicated.
Josie is a teacher and the daughter of a Hockey coach who is looking for the right man but fate seems to keep leading her to a man that seems all wrong.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Burn:🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
Darkness: N/A
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Range Of Emotions:🔥💗🌶️🥰🥵😢🥹😭Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫 {DUAL}
🗂️ Genre: Romance
✨ Tropes: Figure skater + hockey player, Coach’s daughter, He falls first, Forced proximity, A loft of goofball hockey players *giving New Girl vibes*😂, Soulmate, Teacher, Hockey romance
💋 Kinks: N/A
⚠️ Warning: This is spicyyyyy , but also you will cry at the sweetness
📣 Type: Our Bender is book 6 of The Ice League Series, but can be read as a standalone
Yes, Yes, Yes. a million times YESSS. This was a great book. Their chemistry is explosive and in the beginning all the way through to the end. She is not prepared for the feelings she will face. They overcome a range of challenges. He's wanted her since the team had to come to the school she teaches at and she uses the sassy teacher voice *you know the one* and he was gone.
Josie is a teacher and the daughter of a Hockey coach who is looking for the right man but fate seems to keep leading her to a man that seems all wrong.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Burn:🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
Darkness: N/A
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Range Of Emotions:🔥💗🌶️🥰🥵😢🥹😭Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫 {DUAL}
🗂️ Genre: Romance
✨ Tropes: Figure skater + hockey player, Coach’s daughter, He falls first, Forced proximity, A loft of goofball hockey players *giving New Girl vibes*😂, Soulmate, Teacher, Hockey romance
💋 Kinks: N/A
⚠️ Warning: This is spicyyyyy , but also you will cry at the sweetness
📣 Type: Our Bender is book 6 of The Ice League Series, but can be read as a standalone
Yes, Yes, Yes. a million times YESSS. This was a great book. Their chemistry is explosive and in the beginning all the way through to the end. She is not prepared for the feelings she will face. They overcome a range of challenges. He's wanted her since the team had to come to the school she teaches at and she uses the sassy teacher voice *you know the one* and he was gone.
December 15, 2023
Happy release day to Our Bender!! ❤️
This was an absolutely adorable read. As a teacher myself, having a teacher FMC made me connect even more to the story.
⛸️ The FMC - Josie - is a teacher and daughter of a NHL coach. She has sworn off hockey players and has recently moved into an apartment complex where she thought she’d be “on her own” but little does she know her father had something else up his sleeve.
🏒 The MMC - Tyler - is a professional hockey player with a heart of gold. Being basically raised by his brother he’s made a name for himself and wants nothing more than to fall in love. And he’s got his eyes set on a teacher who can’t stand the thought of dating another hockey player.
The pair have some unreal chemistry and it’s so fun to watch Tyler fall hard and fast. The passion that unravels is something most dream of and it warmed my heart with each page turn.
This is book 6 of the Ice League series. What an amazing ending, tying everything together in a sweet bow!
Read if you love :
❤️ hockey romances
❤️ HEA
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ he falls first
❤️ golden retriever MMC
..
**I received an ARC copy from the author, all my options are my own. I absolutely love S.C. Kate and I’m so grateful to have been given this ARC! 🖤
This was an absolutely adorable read. As a teacher myself, having a teacher FMC made me connect even more to the story.
⛸️ The FMC - Josie - is a teacher and daughter of a NHL coach. She has sworn off hockey players and has recently moved into an apartment complex where she thought she’d be “on her own” but little does she know her father had something else up his sleeve.
🏒 The MMC - Tyler - is a professional hockey player with a heart of gold. Being basically raised by his brother he’s made a name for himself and wants nothing more than to fall in love. And he’s got his eyes set on a teacher who can’t stand the thought of dating another hockey player.
The pair have some unreal chemistry and it’s so fun to watch Tyler fall hard and fast. The passion that unravels is something most dream of and it warmed my heart with each page turn.
This is book 6 of the Ice League series. What an amazing ending, tying everything together in a sweet bow!
Read if you love :
❤️ hockey romances
❤️ HEA
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ he falls first
❤️ golden retriever MMC
..
**I received an ARC copy from the author, all my options are my own. I absolutely love S.C. Kate and I’m so grateful to have been given this ARC! 🖤
December 12, 2023
I honestly don’t know where to Start! I absolutely loved this book. I mean it 100%. Once I picked it up, I just couldn’t put it down.
Tropes: Figure skater + hockey player,
Coach's daughter,
He falls first and falls hard
Forced proximity,
Golden retriever MC
Soulmate, Teacher,
Hockey romance
The chemistry between Tyler and Josie was something so unreal. The story itself was an emotional rollercoaster but in a good way. I love that he fell first but the fact that he fell hard was amazing to read about. The love and passion between them both is something that anyone would really want and dream of, it’s just magical.
I loved getting to know about the love about each and every character and the chemistry and friendships between them all. It’s magical and honestly I just loved it all.
I had the honour of reading this as an ARC, and I just want to say that I love S.C Kate’s work and I want to thank her so much for giving me the chance to read ‘Our Bender’ I loved every moment about it so thank you so much.
Also shoutout to coach! 🤍 he knew what he was doing 😂
I can’t wait for everyone to read it. I highly recommend it! 🤍🫶🏽
Tropes: Figure skater + hockey player,
Coach's daughter,
He falls first and falls hard
Forced proximity,
Golden retriever MC
Soulmate, Teacher,
Hockey romance
The chemistry between Tyler and Josie was something so unreal. The story itself was an emotional rollercoaster but in a good way. I love that he fell first but the fact that he fell hard was amazing to read about. The love and passion between them both is something that anyone would really want and dream of, it’s just magical.
I loved getting to know about the love about each and every character and the chemistry and friendships between them all. It’s magical and honestly I just loved it all.
I had the honour of reading this as an ARC, and I just want to say that I love S.C Kate’s work and I want to thank her so much for giving me the chance to read ‘Our Bender’ I loved every moment about it so thank you so much.
Also shoutout to coach! 🤍 he knew what he was doing 😂
I can’t wait for everyone to read it. I highly recommend it! 🤍🫶🏽
December 19, 2023
The Ice League Series has been a series that I have not been able to put down while reading. I have been waiting for awhile for this book and I am super excited to say that this one had me on edge. SC Kate’s books are not your average hockey boy meets figure skating girl and they end up happily ever after. She goes into intense detail of a competitive figure skater and the challenges that they face as well as the struggles of being a high level hockey player on the road trying to build a life. The story of Josie and Tyler kept me smiling the whole time while reading. They share such a connection that aside from everything that occurs in Tyler’s life throughout the story, it keeps you reading and wanting to know exactly what is going to happen next.
Aside from Our Bender, SC Kate has such amazing story lines for all of the Ice League series. Her writing not only tells a romance story in each but she also focuses on the pressure that it takes to perform at the highest levels of these two sports. It is not too often that I come across a mistake within her books, however, when I do it is not impossible to figure out what needed to be corrected; making her books easy to follow along still. Another round of editing could have been used, but aside from the odd mix up, Our Bender is one that will keep you wanting to know more. Highly recommend the Ice League Series for anyone who enjoys a good sports romance.
Aside from Our Bender, SC Kate has such amazing story lines for all of the Ice League series. Her writing not only tells a romance story in each but she also focuses on the pressure that it takes to perform at the highest levels of these two sports. It is not too often that I come across a mistake within her books, however, when I do it is not impossible to figure out what needed to be corrected; making her books easy to follow along still. Another round of editing could have been used, but aside from the odd mix up, Our Bender is one that will keep you wanting to know more. Highly recommend the Ice League Series for anyone who enjoys a good sports romance.
April 3, 2024
This book reminded me again about why I shouldn't trust booktok or read books based only on one scene- The hockey players going to the school for charity and the MMC finding the teacher hot scene.
The first half of the book was good ngl. The chemistry, FMC's heartbreak, and the MMC's insecurities. Though I liked the high school girl story, individually, the story was completely thrown off from the leading character's story. And I'm sorry if I'm not making sense because I've wasted hours on this book just to drop it now.
There's suddenly a child, MY GOD!! I was already irritated by how quickly the plot moved just the night after they got together. Suddenly, the writer decided to bring her previous character and throw a big party. I love a good cameo, but they took too many pages that could've been to the MCs to, IDK, romance each other a bit.
Then on the second day, they are together. There's a baby, and would you guess? It's from the high school girl. Now, he's all freaked out and the poor FMC has to shoulder the fact that the man she's falling for has a baby. Also, maybe I like slow burns, but how can you make "I'm falling for you" statements when you've known each other for a few days, been together since last night, and haven't seen each other the whole day because you're caught up in someone else's mess.
Maybe you don't agree with me, and you really don't have to. This was my space to lay down my thoughts, so I did.
The first half of the book was good ngl. The chemistry, FMC's heartbreak, and the MMC's insecurities. Though I liked the high school girl story, individually, the story was completely thrown off from the leading character's story. And I'm sorry if I'm not making sense because I've wasted hours on this book just to drop it now.
There's suddenly a child, MY GOD!! I was already irritated by how quickly the plot moved just the night after they got together. Suddenly, the writer decided to bring her previous character and throw a big party. I love a good cameo, but they took too many pages that could've been to the MCs to, IDK, romance each other a bit.
Then on the second day, they are together. There's a baby, and would you guess? It's from the high school girl. Now, he's all freaked out and the poor FMC has to shoulder the fact that the man she's falling for has a baby. Also, maybe I like slow burns, but how can you make "I'm falling for you" statements when you've known each other for a few days, been together since last night, and haven't seen each other the whole day because you're caught up in someone else's mess.
Maybe you don't agree with me, and you really don't have to. This was my space to lay down my thoughts, so I did.
December 14, 2023
Josie is swearing off hockey players after her fiancé is caught publicly cheating on her. She does what any woman scorned would do and takes to social media and live stream trashing the guy’s apartment. Meanwhile, Tyler is trying to get the attention of the cute girl moving into his building. The fact that she happens to be his NHL coach’s daughter and a teacher who reamed him out for cussing in front of kids can’t dull his attraction to Josie.
This book was a smart, poignant wrap up to the series. There was plenty of humor throughout as all of the previous couples intertwine into Josie and Tyler’s world. I audibly gasped at the plot twist around the halfway mark. I didn’t see it coming but it really humanized the characters. Everything wrapped up really quickly at the end, and I would have liked a little more angst throughout. Josie and Tyler are a well-matched couple (although Claire and Duke are still my favorite).
While this could sort of be read as a stand-alone, I’d highly recommend reading the rest of the series first.
Tropes: figure skater/hockey player, coach’s daughter, cinnamon roll MMC, woman scorned, he falls first.
Thanks to the author for an e-ARC in the x change for an honest review.
This book was a smart, poignant wrap up to the series. There was plenty of humor throughout as all of the previous couples intertwine into Josie and Tyler’s world. I audibly gasped at the plot twist around the halfway mark. I didn’t see it coming but it really humanized the characters. Everything wrapped up really quickly at the end, and I would have liked a little more angst throughout. Josie and Tyler are a well-matched couple (although Claire and Duke are still my favorite).
While this could sort of be read as a stand-alone, I’d highly recommend reading the rest of the series first.
Tropes: figure skater/hockey player, coach’s daughter, cinnamon roll MMC, woman scorned, he falls first.
Thanks to the author for an e-ARC in the x change for an honest review.
February 15, 2024
1.5/5⭐️
Ok, so many things to say.
The book starts… ok i guess.
We are introduced to a woman going through a weird ass divorce. Ok, whatever. She catarsis her way through it doing some questionable things.
Now, the background story of him is explained weirdly. A bit more time could have been given to show why he is like that instead of just mentioning it.
The chemistry between the two of them is weird. Especially when it’s explained in her POVs, her explanation of how she feels about him is more than confusing. Could not stand it. He is portrayed as the best man to ever walk earth yet the only thing that he did was listen to her feelings… what?.
They get together, cute. Then, out of literally NOWHERE, he has a lost child?????
From there on the story just goes downhill. It gets repetitive and the whole second half of the book revolves around the child.
The only thing I liked about this book that i would have liked to read more of was the team. Kind of a found family troupe that was barely even touched. Their romance and how they met is cute tho (but not that much)
Ok, so many things to say.
The book starts… ok i guess.
We are introduced to a woman going through a weird ass divorce. Ok, whatever. She catarsis her way through it doing some questionable things.
Now, the background story of him is explained weirdly. A bit more time could have been given to show why he is like that instead of just mentioning it.
The chemistry between the two of them is weird. Especially when it’s explained in her POVs, her explanation of how she feels about him is more than confusing. Could not stand it. He is portrayed as the best man to ever walk earth yet the only thing that he did was listen to her feelings… what?.
They get together, cute. Then, out of literally NOWHERE, he has a lost child?????
From there on the story just goes downhill. It gets repetitive and the whole second half of the book revolves around the child.
The only thing I liked about this book that i would have liked to read more of was the team. Kind of a found family troupe that was barely even touched. Their romance and how they met is cute tho (but not that much)
December 4, 2023
I had the chance to read the ARC of this book and it was amazing! Ty and Josie's story was super fun to follow. I love all of S.C Kate's work and how all of the character's stories connect to one another. I love not only the relationship dynamics you see, but also the friend and family dynamics, that are just as good and important! I think anyone who likes romance books would love this one. I will say, as someone who does not like explicate content, this book was very fade to black. While there was truly no explicate content written, it does have some description leading up and things are implied. I would say this had more details than some of her other books for those who have read some of her other works. Overall, I really enjoyed this book!
January 12, 2024
Cute and fast paced read!
Super cute romance story with lots of little twists that keep the pace fast and fun.
The prelogue really threw me for a loop when the FMC ended up not being the girl in the flashback. However that little pre-story is so important to the plot! Top notch humor and Taylor Swift references throughout the whole boom. Sweet, steamy, but not smutty. Prepare for some language though (that totally works in light of the essence of the characters)
I haven't read the others in the series but it seems to be a good tie-up for previous characters stories all coming together in the end, especially with what Abbie says about her project to Tyler 🤫
I rarely do 5 stars but could barely put it down and loved the character development and ending result.
Super cute romance story with lots of little twists that keep the pace fast and fun.
The prelogue really threw me for a loop when the FMC ended up not being the girl in the flashback. However that little pre-story is so important to the plot! Top notch humor and Taylor Swift references throughout the whole boom. Sweet, steamy, but not smutty. Prepare for some language though (that totally works in light of the essence of the characters)
I haven't read the others in the series but it seems to be a good tie-up for previous characters stories all coming together in the end, especially with what Abbie says about her project to Tyler 🤫
I rarely do 5 stars but could barely put it down and loved the character development and ending result.
February 21, 2024
A nice way to finish the series (though I wish I got Brody and Adrienne's side of their story lol). A lot of crossover with characters from previous novels, making it quite satisfying for a finale. Absolute plot twist halfway through, and the management of it afterwards was a little idealistic but sweet enough to get on board, after all this is a romance novel. The spice (though not the point nor genre of this series) was hot in the dynamic between FMC and MMC, though we only saw it a couple of times. A lot of readers have commented on the lack of editing on these novels, and while I agree, I still think their ease of readability is not too much impacted. Overall happy to have completed the series.
December 22, 2023
LOVED! I liked that it started with a flash back of Tyler in high school. For the life of me I was t sure where it was going to take us. And I still didn’t know until the plot twist. It was a little meh with the “I’m never dating another hockey player” storyline but to be fair I’ve never been a fan of the “I’m never dating *specific profession*” plot lines. Luckily it didn’t last too long. I liked Josie and Tyler’s relationship though and how she was with Stevie. Pretty sure this is the last in the series but I really loved the Ice League series. Obsessed with the way she had Addie be the author of them in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A good ole hockey romance!
Tyler is an up and coming NHL star who falls head over heels for, none other than, the teacher whose class they do a community read in. A few hiccups along the way cause Tyler and “Miss Josie” to get close. Soon a friendship forms, then romance. Throw in some hiccups that turn Tyler’s world upside down? DRAMA!
There was so much drama in this book- page after page you were left wondering- what next?! Tyler seems to draw the short end of the stick a lot but it proves how resilient it is. 4 stars because I thought it started off slow and then we don’t realize we needed the beginning until the last few chapters.
A good ole hockey romance!
Tyler is an up and coming NHL star who falls head over heels for, none other than, the teacher whose class they do a community read in. A few hiccups along the way cause Tyler and “Miss Josie” to get close. Soon a friendship forms, then romance. Throw in some hiccups that turn Tyler’s world upside down? DRAMA!
There was so much drama in this book- page after page you were left wondering- what next?! Tyler seems to draw the short end of the stick a lot but it proves how resilient it is. 4 stars because I thought it started off slow and then we don’t realize we needed the beginning until the last few chapters.
December 13, 2023
Tyler is a hockey kid who has played since he was a kid.
Josie is a teacher and the daughter of a Hockey coach.
Our Bender is a standalone, and book 6, in the lce League series. I have only read this book in the series but I will be reading the entire series now.
The chemistry was amazing throughout the book and you will feel a range of emotions while reading this book.
Thank you @authorsc_kate for the chance to read this book before it was released!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read if you like
•hockey player x teacher
•forced proximity
•coach's daughter
•he falls first (and HARD)
Josie is a teacher and the daughter of a Hockey coach.
Our Bender is a standalone, and book 6, in the lce League series. I have only read this book in the series but I will be reading the entire series now.
The chemistry was amazing throughout the book and you will feel a range of emotions while reading this book.
Thank you @authorsc_kate for the chance to read this book before it was released!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read if you like
•hockey player x teacher
•forced proximity
•coach's daughter
•he falls first (and HARD)
December 15, 2023
What an amazing way to end the Ice League series!! I have loved this series from the start, and I am sad to see it end but Tyler & Josie's story was the perfect ending! There was so much heartbreak and plot twists that I could not see coming! There were so many times when I laughed out loud! I kept waiting to see what coach would say & I was shocked by his answer at the end! There was so much to this story but it did not feel packed in at all - the writing was amazing. Can't wait to see what comes next from S.C. Kate!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2024
1⭐️ - DNF AT 70%
This was a mess, initially I thought maybe the girl at the start would be the girl he got with but they’re two different people, 60% - it’s going ok, way to many characters to keep up with for a “standalone” but whatever we move.
Tell me why a child pops up out of nowhere? Like? Genuinely felt like the author had a spin the wheel of random scenarios. It was heading nowhere
Last kindle unlimited book, obvi it had to be a mess. I skimmed the last 40% wanted to add it to my read but I feel like that would be doing myself a disservice
This was a mess, initially I thought maybe the girl at the start would be the girl he got with but they’re two different people, 60% - it’s going ok, way to many characters to keep up with for a “standalone” but whatever we move.
Tell me why a child pops up out of nowhere? Like? Genuinely felt like the author had a spin the wheel of random scenarios. It was heading nowhere
Last kindle unlimited book, obvi it had to be a mess. I skimmed the last 40% wanted to add it to my read but I feel like that would be doing myself a disservice
February 2, 2024
Fun read! Felt like a very long story. Almost considered DNF because the first two or so chapters (were like flashbacks of his first relationship) didn’t feel connected with the story till like over half way thru the book. I also felt like her character didn’t make sense. The way she spoke to her love interest did not reflect any of her thoughts. And I was fully convinced for like 2 pages that he was talking to someone else because she wouldn’t have spoken like that.
I also caught a typo😂 the nephews name is Ty and he got called Tj toward the end.
I also caught a typo😂 the nephews name is Ty and he got called Tj toward the end.
November 13, 2024
This could have been my favorite book. Let me just say that some parts left rushed. I wish they would have been more developed. It was too quick for me jumping forward so many times, so many times happening in the story all the time, there were sort of predictable too... So I feel really disappointed about that but I still gave it 5 stars because I love my teacher athlete story, I have been wanting to read one for so long again, it's been years. I love that Tyler went to Josie's school, I love their story, their love, their support. I am in love with Tyler's personality and also with Stevie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2024
Cute Story
Okay, I’ve read all 6 of the Ice League Series and they are entertaining little books. Good characters, good stories, good writing. That said, I do wish the author would get over her obsession with Lululemon, Tim Hortons, and Taylor Swift.
Every character, especially the females, are Swifties. I promise you, there are just as many people in the world who don’t obsess over her, so the repeat of this trait in every single story makes me feel embarrassment for the author. Other than that weird repetition, they’re worth the read.
Okay, I’ve read all 6 of the Ice League Series and they are entertaining little books. Good characters, good stories, good writing. That said, I do wish the author would get over her obsession with Lululemon, Tim Hortons, and Taylor Swift.
Every character, especially the females, are Swifties. I promise you, there are just as many people in the world who don’t obsess over her, so the repeat of this trait in every single story makes me feel embarrassment for the author. Other than that weird repetition, they’re worth the read.
December 12, 2023
I give this book a 4.5. This is my first review for an arc copy of a book and I’m so grateful that it was this one. S.C. Kate portrayed a swoon-worthy, closed door romance so well with amazing and lovable main characters. I will not be giving any spoilers for people who are planning to read her novel, but I will say you’re making a great decision when it when it comes to reading this author’s work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews