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SLC Sting #1
Home Ice
It's just my bad luck to have the world's hottest next-door neighbor. A neighbor who happens to be the star goalie for the Salt Lake City Sting. Even worse? I'm stuck working with him all season.
When I left for college ten years ago, I swore I would never come back. Why would I after everything that happened? But here I am, back in the same city and the same house. And it's filled with the same bad memories.
Now, I have to face them without the one person who promised they would always be there for me. The empty house is just a reminder that I'm on my own.
But I'm so much stronger than I was back then. And I only have to make it through one year. What's the worst that could happen?
Brant Morrison throwing himself in front of me like he's taking an assassin's bullet. That's what.
I have everything under control until he stomps into my life. With those eyebrows of his. And those abs. There's no way abs like that are legal in Utah.
Then, because every dark night can always get a little darker, I find out he's the goalie for the Sting. The same team that hired me as their new assistant athletic trainer. Now I'm stuck with him for the season.
It's just one year. Then I can go back to the life I've been building for myself. There's no room for Brant Morrison in that life. And there's certainly no room for the feelings he brings out in me. Feelings that make my skin so warm I'm staying away from dry brush, just in case.
Maybe this year is going to be more difficult than I thought.
Home Ice is a spicy, funny—sometimes angsty—standalone professional hockey romance featuring a transgender heroine and her way-too-hot hockey goalie neighbor.
Next Door Neighbors
Forced Proximity
Found Family
He Falls First
Slow Burn
Dual POV
Follow the link in the beginning of the book for a list of content warnings.
When I left for college ten years ago, I swore I would never come back. Why would I after everything that happened? But here I am, back in the same city and the same house. And it's filled with the same bad memories.
Now, I have to face them without the one person who promised they would always be there for me. The empty house is just a reminder that I'm on my own.
But I'm so much stronger than I was back then. And I only have to make it through one year. What's the worst that could happen?
Brant Morrison throwing himself in front of me like he's taking an assassin's bullet. That's what.
I have everything under control until he stomps into my life. With those eyebrows of his. And those abs. There's no way abs like that are legal in Utah.
Then, because every dark night can always get a little darker, I find out he's the goalie for the Sting. The same team that hired me as their new assistant athletic trainer. Now I'm stuck with him for the season.
It's just one year. Then I can go back to the life I've been building for myself. There's no room for Brant Morrison in that life. And there's certainly no room for the feelings he brings out in me. Feelings that make my skin so warm I'm staying away from dry brush, just in case.
Maybe this year is going to be more difficult than I thought.
Home Ice is a spicy, funny—sometimes angsty—standalone professional hockey romance featuring a transgender heroine and her way-too-hot hockey goalie neighbor.
Next Door Neighbors
Forced Proximity
Found Family
He Falls First
Slow Burn
Dual POV
Follow the link in the beginning of the book for a list of content warnings.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2024
232 people are currently reading
575 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Lynd
2 books21 followersOlivia Lynd writes spicy, sarcastic sports romances with transgender heroines who always get their happy ending.
She grew up loving sports and always dreamed of writing romances. Finally, she decided to combine the two. When she’s not writing, or stressing about her writing, or freaking out because she really needs to be writing, she’s probably reading, hiking, or watching a hockey or baseball game.
She grew up loving sports and always dreamed of writing romances. Finally, she decided to combine the two. When she’s not writing, or stressing about her writing, or freaking out because she really needs to be writing, she’s probably reading, hiking, or watching a hockey or baseball game.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
July 30, 2024
For a debut, this was pretty solid. I love the trans rep, which is hard to find done well.
But this book is about 200 pages too long. It goes in the same circles over and over and by 90% I was so exasperated by the FMC I wanted to quit but I had to finish since I made it that far.
And the banter during sex… ruins sex scenes and I wish authors would stop doing it.
ALSO… BIG LANGUAGE USE FAIL… we do not use the word “clean” to describe our lack of STI’s/HIV. If you don’t know why, please look up the word “stigma.”
The sex was… meh. With as long as this book is, I expected more passion and exciting and creative sex but it’s just… very bland.
The writing is well done for a debut and I liked the MMC and the addition of Chloe.. I will probably try this author again if they write something under 300 pages lmao.
But this book is about 200 pages too long. It goes in the same circles over and over and by 90% I was so exasperated by the FMC I wanted to quit but I had to finish since I made it that far.
And the banter during sex… ruins sex scenes and I wish authors would stop doing it.
ALSO… BIG LANGUAGE USE FAIL… we do not use the word “clean” to describe our lack of STI’s/HIV. If you don’t know why, please look up the word “stigma.”
The sex was… meh. With as long as this book is, I expected more passion and exciting and creative sex but it’s just… very bland.
The writing is well done for a debut and I liked the MMC and the addition of Chloe.. I will probably try this author again if they write something under 300 pages lmao.
June 4, 2024
Home Ice by Olivia Lynd was such a pleasant surprise. I picked this one up because it had trans rep and hockey—the perfect combination. I didn’t realize it was such a long story (almost 500 pages), but I absolutely devoured Lily and Brant’s story.
One of the things I appreciated was how the fact that Lily was a trans woman was not the main focus of the story. It was just a part of who she is. The fact that Brant was down so bad for her was everything. The chemistry between these two was fire and the slow burn was perfect. I loved the push/pull and how there was no one else for them once they met. I also loved Chloe and the way Brant would call them “his girls”. He really was the perfect book boyfriend. I wanted to shake Lily and tell her to not let him get away. But it was easy to understand why she was scared when everyone in her life had abandoned her (except her bestie Em). The epilogue just sealed the deal that this was a really good story.
I highly recommend this one and I cannot wait for Em and Kayden’s story. Em is such a firecracker that she will give Kayden a run for his money (which he desperately needs). I think she will definitely knock him down a few pegs- lol.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
One of the things I appreciated was how the fact that Lily was a trans woman was not the main focus of the story. It was just a part of who she is. The fact that Brant was down so bad for her was everything. The chemistry between these two was fire and the slow burn was perfect. I loved the push/pull and how there was no one else for them once they met. I also loved Chloe and the way Brant would call them “his girls”. He really was the perfect book boyfriend. I wanted to shake Lily and tell her to not let him get away. But it was easy to understand why she was scared when everyone in her life had abandoned her (except her bestie Em). The epilogue just sealed the deal that this was a really good story.
I highly recommend this one and I cannot wait for Em and Kayden’s story. Em is such a firecracker that she will give Kayden a run for his money (which he desperately needs). I think she will definitely knock him down a few pegs- lol.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
June 3, 2024
3.5🌟🌟🌟💫- M/F Pairing - Dual POV- He Falls First
Lily is reluctantly keeping a promise to her Dad to move back to their old home in Salt Lake City, Utah, for one year. After that she plans to return to Denver, Colorado, to her old job and to be near to her best friend, Emory, a Veterinarian who works at her father’s practice.
But Lily never expected her annoying neighbour to become a force in her life. He is relentless in his pursuit of her heart. Later she discovers that he is the Goal Tender for Salt Lake City Stingers, where she has been employed recently as their Assistant Athletic Trainer. He has been recuperating from an ACL injury and has just returned after a long timeout to his SLC Team.
Although Lily is basking in the attention Brant lavishes on her she knows nothing can ever happen between them. Lily has secrets of her own that she doesn’t intend sharing with anyone at SLC, and especially not Brant. They are strictly friends only and both befriend a young 15 y.o transgender girl, Chloe, who is living in a Homeless Shelter for young LGBTIQA teens where Lily volunteers.
Both Lily and Chloe have had traumatic childhoods, Chloe parents were both abusive and threw her out of the house, Lily’s mother was abusive and left her husband and Lily when she was thirteen years old.
There are several important side characters here, Kayden is Brant’s best friend on the SLC Team, Emory, is Lily’s best friend based in Denver, and Michael is the Manager of the Homeless Shelter. There is also the matter of Lily’s Dad and the influence he has on her behaviour and decision making.
‘ Home Ice’ is a very slow burn and at times I was so infuriated by Lily and her ‘negative Nelly-ness’ which I guess was her way of protecting herself and it only needed Brant to start breaking down those barriers to her heart. Brant is a man sent by the Gods, he is a dream boyfriend, if only Lily would let him in.
Once I got a couple of Chapters in I was engaged by both MC and even some of the side characters. This is a really good storyline with some very lovable characters. Brant is fascinated by one of Lily’s attributes and is really a very insatiable guy. There is a BONUS offered at the end of HOME ICE, don’t miss out on that, it is a showcase for Brant and his passionate nature.🔥💥😍
This is a debut book by author Olivia Lynd who says she identifies with both Lily and Chloe and clearly shows what they struggle through in their lives. I am delighted that she has promised her next book will be Kayden and Emory’s story, they are the best friends of Brant and Lily and are a big feature in Home Ice.
I received a free ARC copy of this book and this is my freely given, unbiased review.
Lily is reluctantly keeping a promise to her Dad to move back to their old home in Salt Lake City, Utah, for one year. After that she plans to return to Denver, Colorado, to her old job and to be near to her best friend, Emory, a Veterinarian who works at her father’s practice.
But Lily never expected her annoying neighbour to become a force in her life. He is relentless in his pursuit of her heart. Later she discovers that he is the Goal Tender for Salt Lake City Stingers, where she has been employed recently as their Assistant Athletic Trainer. He has been recuperating from an ACL injury and has just returned after a long timeout to his SLC Team.
Although Lily is basking in the attention Brant lavishes on her she knows nothing can ever happen between them. Lily has secrets of her own that she doesn’t intend sharing with anyone at SLC, and especially not Brant. They are strictly friends only and both befriend a young 15 y.o transgender girl, Chloe, who is living in a Homeless Shelter for young LGBTIQA teens where Lily volunteers.
Both Lily and Chloe have had traumatic childhoods, Chloe parents were both abusive and threw her out of the house, Lily’s mother was abusive and left her husband and Lily when she was thirteen years old.
There are several important side characters here, Kayden is Brant’s best friend on the SLC Team, Emory, is Lily’s best friend based in Denver, and Michael is the Manager of the Homeless Shelter. There is also the matter of Lily’s Dad and the influence he has on her behaviour and decision making.
‘ Home Ice’ is a very slow burn and at times I was so infuriated by Lily and her ‘negative Nelly-ness’ which I guess was her way of protecting herself and it only needed Brant to start breaking down those barriers to her heart. Brant is a man sent by the Gods, he is a dream boyfriend, if only Lily would let him in.
Once I got a couple of Chapters in I was engaged by both MC and even some of the side characters. This is a really good storyline with some very lovable characters. Brant is fascinated by one of Lily’s attributes and is really a very insatiable guy. There is a BONUS offered at the end of HOME ICE, don’t miss out on that, it is a showcase for Brant and his passionate nature.🔥💥😍
This is a debut book by author Olivia Lynd who says she identifies with both Lily and Chloe and clearly shows what they struggle through in their lives. I am delighted that she has promised her next book will be Kayden and Emory’s story, they are the best friends of Brant and Lily and are a big feature in Home Ice.
I received a free ARC copy of this book and this is my freely given, unbiased review.
June 3, 2024
Omgggggg
Omggggggg
Omgggggggg
This was SUCH A GOOD READ
Brant is a fucking dreamboat. Like THE GOAT. man I wish men were written by women irl cause I’d be married by now if that were the case.
Lily is such a fucking sweetheart and so relatable. The only part that frustrated me so much was her back and forth about loving Brant. One minute she loved him and had him meet her dad and all that good stuff and then she’s trying to run away from everything. Like I get it but man that was frustrating.
And CHLOE?! Oh this girl was hilarious; she was probably my favorite character.
Omggggggg
Omgggggggg
This was SUCH A GOOD READ
Brant is a fucking dreamboat. Like THE GOAT. man I wish men were written by women irl cause I’d be married by now if that were the case.
Lily is such a fucking sweetheart and so relatable. The only part that frustrated me so much was her back and forth about loving Brant. One minute she loved him and had him meet her dad and all that good stuff and then she’s trying to run away from everything. Like I get it but man that was frustrating.
And CHLOE?! Oh this girl was hilarious; she was probably my favorite character.
June 2, 2024
What a book! I loved meeting these characters and instantly made me want to know more, to see where the story would go.
I’m already a big fan of hockey romances so was very excited to receive an ARC to review..
We are introduced to a transgender heroine who is struggling with her past, having so many bad memories of being accepted.
This is the debut book by Olivia Lynd and can’t wait to see what else this author brings.
I’m already a big fan of hockey romances so was very excited to receive an ARC to review..
We are introduced to a transgender heroine who is struggling with her past, having so many bad memories of being accepted.
This is the debut book by Olivia Lynd and can’t wait to see what else this author brings.
June 20, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
April 29, 2025
HOME ICE was such a fantastic read and I was eating up the banter and chemistry between Lily and Brant! Olivia Lynd has a great writing voice and I really felt like I knew these characters because so much of their personalities came through in their POV chapters. The book is on the longer side for a contemporary romance but I loved seeing so many different parts of Brant and Lily's relationship and how they navigated through them.
Brant, the goalie for the Salt Lake City Sting, was an absolute cinnamon roll of a man and I adored his constant and unwavering support of Lily. He respected her and worshipped her and never once questioned her identity. He was in Lily's corner from the beginning and he didn't care who knew how head over heels he was for her. I always love a man who is not afraid to show his feelings! Lily was also a great heroine, strong, resilient, and outspoken. As a transwoman her life hasn't always been easy and she's slow to trust others, especially with her true self, but I loved how she always knew her worth and wasn't afraid to stand up for herself and those she cared about. She tried to resist Brant but I'm not surprised she failed because that man was prime boyfriend material.
The side characters were all so much fun, from the team meddling to make sure Lily and Brant ended up together, to Chloe's teenage irreverence, and Emory's best friend loyalty. I'm really looking forward to more in this series because I want books for all of the team!
Content Warning: grief over recent death of a parent; transphobia; brief reference to past suicide attempt
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
"You said I would be gone now that you told me, but that feels like I'm still here. I'm not going anywhere, Lily. I don't know if I'm a good person, but I know I'm a friend who's still right here with you."
Brant, the goalie for the Salt Lake City Sting, was an absolute cinnamon roll of a man and I adored his constant and unwavering support of Lily. He respected her and worshipped her and never once questioned her identity. He was in Lily's corner from the beginning and he didn't care who knew how head over heels he was for her. I always love a man who is not afraid to show his feelings! Lily was also a great heroine, strong, resilient, and outspoken. As a transwoman her life hasn't always been easy and she's slow to trust others, especially with her true self, but I loved how she always knew her worth and wasn't afraid to stand up for herself and those she cared about. She tried to resist Brant but I'm not surprised she failed because that man was prime boyfriend material.
The side characters were all so much fun, from the team meddling to make sure Lily and Brant ended up together, to Chloe's teenage irreverence, and Emory's best friend loyalty. I'm really looking forward to more in this series because I want books for all of the team!
Content Warning: grief over recent death of a parent; transphobia; brief reference to past suicide attempt
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
"You said I would be gone now that you told me, but that feels like I'm still here. I'm not going anywhere, Lily. I don't know if I'm a good person, but I know I'm a friend who's still right here with you."
June 10, 2024
Home Ice was my first dip into the transgender romance genre, and I'm honest when I say, it won't be my last. Olivia, you had me hooked on these characters and how you focus more on the emotional aspect of the transgender community. I didn't know what to expect when I went into this book, but through this story, you have fundamentally changed me as a person. You got me to watch the 2023 Miss Transgender Global, you had me googling as much terminology as my brain could handle, and you know what, it gave me all the feels....okay, love letter to the author over...on to the book.
This story is about Lily-she is our trans feminine fmc, and she is dealing with the very recent loss of her father, who was one of the only two people who ever supported her. But this story is not about Lily being trans friends, this is a story about a girl who meets a boy who accepts her in every way. A boy who fights for her heart even when her self doubt and past demons try to get the better of her. A boy who looks at her and sees her as beautiful, and who will defend her even if it ruins him. Brant is a total cinnamon roll, a goof with a heart of gold. His mouth is like a mesh strainer and every thought just pops out regardless of how doltish it sounds. The banter between these two was chefs kiss.
Chloe is an absolute gem, and my heart broke for this girl. Kaden, Milo, and the rest of the team were amazing side characters who served such an important purpose throughout the book. I am excited to see where all of their stories go.
Overall, this is such a feel good book, which shows that regardless of being cisgender/transgender, we are no different and that above all else, we want to be loved for we we are as women.
🌹Thank you for gifting me an arc of your debut. I can't wait for Kayden and Em's story.
This story is about Lily-she is our trans feminine fmc, and she is dealing with the very recent loss of her father, who was one of the only two people who ever supported her. But this story is not about Lily being trans friends, this is a story about a girl who meets a boy who accepts her in every way. A boy who fights for her heart even when her self doubt and past demons try to get the better of her. A boy who looks at her and sees her as beautiful, and who will defend her even if it ruins him. Brant is a total cinnamon roll, a goof with a heart of gold. His mouth is like a mesh strainer and every thought just pops out regardless of how doltish it sounds. The banter between these two was chefs kiss.
Chloe is an absolute gem, and my heart broke for this girl. Kaden, Milo, and the rest of the team were amazing side characters who served such an important purpose throughout the book. I am excited to see where all of their stories go.
Overall, this is such a feel good book, which shows that regardless of being cisgender/transgender, we are no different and that above all else, we want to be loved for we we are as women.
🌹Thank you for gifting me an arc of your debut. I can't wait for Kayden and Em's story.
June 3, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Home Ice is a solid debut romance, but unfortunately, some things didn’t completely work for me. I mainly struggled with Lily and Brant's choices throughout the story, especially the third-act breakup didn’t work for me at all regarding the reasons for it. I liked their reconciliation, especially the team's collective acceptance and Brant’s being so nicely showcased. The way Lily’s trans identity was accepted was for me the highlight of that part and the whole story overall. It was so wonderful to see a trans woman being centred in a hockey romance, which is a genre that still lacking when it comes to trans representation.
I liked the two main characters for most of the story and enjoyed their romance. I don’t think it took that much from the overall story, but sometimes I couldn’t see the reason for their behaviour. I liked Lily as a main character a lot, but struggled a bit to enjoy Brant’s POV at the beginning of the book. Chloe was a sweetheart, that’s for sure, and I loved how her story had an important part in Lily and Brant's lives. Other characters like Em and Kayden were really nicely written, too. I definitely want to read about them in the future.
Home Ice is a solid debut romance, but unfortunately, some things didn’t completely work for me. I mainly struggled with Lily and Brant's choices throughout the story, especially the third-act breakup didn’t work for me at all regarding the reasons for it. I liked their reconciliation, especially the team's collective acceptance and Brant’s being so nicely showcased. The way Lily’s trans identity was accepted was for me the highlight of that part and the whole story overall. It was so wonderful to see a trans woman being centred in a hockey romance, which is a genre that still lacking when it comes to trans representation.
I liked the two main characters for most of the story and enjoyed their romance. I don’t think it took that much from the overall story, but sometimes I couldn’t see the reason for their behaviour. I liked Lily as a main character a lot, but struggled a bit to enjoy Brant’s POV at the beginning of the book. Chloe was a sweetheart, that’s for sure, and I loved how her story had an important part in Lily and Brant's lives. Other characters like Em and Kayden were really nicely written, too. I definitely want to read about them in the future.
June 5, 2024
First I want to say thank you to BookSirens and Olivia Lynd for my ARC of Home Ice.
I loved this book! I couldn’t put it down! I loved the characters and how they grew through the story. Honestly I have never read a book like this so it was nice to read something new :) Brant was McDreamy and the kind of guy anyone could fall in love with. Everything he did made me fall more in love with him. Lily was such a strong character. Her independence, strength and resilience made her easy to love. Their love story was so fun to watch progress! But really, who doesn’t love a good hockey romance!? I absolutely can’t wait to read more by Olivia Lynd!
I loved this book! I couldn’t put it down! I loved the characters and how they grew through the story. Honestly I have never read a book like this so it was nice to read something new :) Brant was McDreamy and the kind of guy anyone could fall in love with. Everything he did made me fall more in love with him. Lily was such a strong character. Her independence, strength and resilience made her easy to love. Their love story was so fun to watch progress! But really, who doesn’t love a good hockey romance!? I absolutely can’t wait to read more by Olivia Lynd!
September 24, 2024
3.5 - enjoyable but too long
REP: trans woman main character, trans woman side character, gay side character, other queer characters
REP: trans woman main character, trans woman side character, gay side character, other queer characters
April 2, 2025
this man should see a doctor about the sheer frequency of his erections
(In all seriousness there is surely another way to convey that he thinks she's pretty and he's into her... right?)
(In all seriousness there is surely another way to convey that he thinks she's pretty and he's into her... right?)
June 5, 2024
AMAZING! I absolutely loved Brant and Lily’s story and I found myself wanting to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next! I love how strong Lily is to overcome so many challenges.
September 30, 2024
Started off sweet and all but it just drraaagggged on, it got so redundant in the end. I also hate when a book just randomly jumps to a whole new week in the middle of an interesting scene. Also why did it take them so long to get it on. I don’t need smut in a book I’ll survive without it, but the amount of times they were like feral for each other just to get interrupted then there’s suddenly a 2 week gap. Like you’re two adults with your own homes how can you not find time to just do it if you want to so bad? Like you can’t be that busy and you have the exact same work schedule.
September 23, 2024
This is a 2 star SPECIFICALLY FOR ME. I am DNF-ing this book 43% of the way it. It truly is a slow burn. Which is fine. I typically love slow burns. But I felt as though this book was very repetitive in the plots, I didn’t feel tied to the characters. And it put me in a reading slump. It’s taken me 27 days to get 43% of the way in.
Now in the positives. This book is definitely one that I think people could and should love. Queer romance, self love and acceptance, hockey romance, love after loss. Has some very good highlights that people should consider. I know this book is for someone and someone will give it the flowers it probably deserves! I’m just not that person.
Now in the positives. This book is definitely one that I think people could and should love. Queer romance, self love and acceptance, hockey romance, love after loss. Has some very good highlights that people should consider. I know this book is for someone and someone will give it the flowers it probably deserves! I’m just not that person.
Read
September 24, 2024this is too long and has some rough spots but it also has excellent bones for a debut and I am very optimistic that she will only grow as an author
full review potentionally?
full review potentionally?
July 6, 2024
Promising new author
I really enjoyed this book; great characters, lots of humor, some emotional parts, drama, all that good stuff. My only criticism is that it was about 100 pages too long. I think it could easily have been edited down without losing any story. I will definitely keep an eye out for her next book though!
I really enjoyed this book; great characters, lots of humor, some emotional parts, drama, all that good stuff. My only criticism is that it was about 100 pages too long. I think it could easily have been edited down without losing any story. I will definitely keep an eye out for her next book though!
Read
July 28, 2024DNF at 11%, not going to rate. Just not for me.
June 5, 2024
Words cannot express how much I adored this book. From start to finish, it had me hooked!
Lily shies away from a lot in her life, she keeps things close to her chest and hates letting people in. And I don't blame her… she has had a rough time, being excluded, cast out, looked down on and feeling less than. Her dad and best friend, Em, were the only people she truly trusted and could rely on.
Brant is a hockey star. A very rich, very hot hockey star. He goes after what he wants. He is determined and nothing stops him. He has a huge heart (among other things IYKYK) and gives everything to those he loves.
The banter between these two is so good. The unspoken attraction and slow burn is fantastic.
Chloe is also a very integral part of this story. She is a teenager living in a shelter for LGBTQ teens. She works her way into both Lily and Brant's hearts and hearts of the readers! Despite what she has endured, she is sassy, sarcastic, dry and brings so much enjoyment to the lives of Lily and Brant.
The deeper storyline left me speechless, so many emotions experienced while reading this book. The pain Lily feels every day, the feelings she has about keeping her truth a secret, the emotions this brings to the surface..this book broke me… Chloe's story broke me….Lily's story broke me….Brant's acceptance and understanding
I laughed, I cried, I was angry, I was heartbroken, I was overjoyed, I was hurt, I was defeated, I was happy and I was loved. This book filled me with all these emotions and then some! And the sex scene….so hot!! Like I needed an ice bath, hot!!
I cannot recommend this book enough!! It was bloody amazing!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lily shies away from a lot in her life, she keeps things close to her chest and hates letting people in. And I don't blame her… she has had a rough time, being excluded, cast out, looked down on and feeling less than. Her dad and best friend, Em, were the only people she truly trusted and could rely on.
Brant is a hockey star. A very rich, very hot hockey star. He goes after what he wants. He is determined and nothing stops him. He has a huge heart (among other things IYKYK) and gives everything to those he loves.
The banter between these two is so good. The unspoken attraction and slow burn is fantastic.
Chloe is also a very integral part of this story. She is a teenager living in a shelter for LGBTQ teens. She works her way into both Lily and Brant's hearts and hearts of the readers! Despite what she has endured, she is sassy, sarcastic, dry and brings so much enjoyment to the lives of Lily and Brant.
The deeper storyline left me speechless, so many emotions experienced while reading this book. The pain Lily feels every day, the feelings she has about keeping her truth a secret, the emotions this brings to the surface..this book broke me… Chloe's story broke me….Lily's story broke me….Brant's acceptance and understanding
I laughed, I cried, I was angry, I was heartbroken, I was overjoyed, I was hurt, I was defeated, I was happy and I was loved. This book filled me with all these emotions and then some! And the sex scene….so hot!! Like I needed an ice bath, hot!!
I cannot recommend this book enough!! It was bloody amazing!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2024
Home Ice is the debut novel for author Oliva Lynd. It is a next door neighbor/Hockey rom com and I am always up for a Hockey setting. It was 500 pages but that didn't bother me because I like reading more than instant -love stories. I will say that I did not know that one of the characters was transgender so I did hesitate a bit, however I was totally enamored with the characters so I didn't let that become a factor. What I did love was that heart and soul that was evident from the beginning, I really loved the strength of the friendships that Lily and Brant had with the supporting characters and the love and unwavering loyalty between Lily, Brant, Chloe .
Lily is fiercely independent , intelligent, loyal and quick witted but she is also a fighter who has learned to protect her heart and her secrets. She had me feeling so many things but I was especially touched by her compassion and protectiveness for Chloe.
Brant is the typical good looking hockey star who is rich, confident and used to getting just what he wants when he wants it. At first, I doubted him, but how he revealed his gooey insides as he and Lily grow closer.
I always like the dual POV, the chemistry that grows and grows between Lily and Brant and the family that emerges at the end. Although it was a new type of hockey romance for me, Olivia Lynd is a storyteller that now has me a fan! I can't wait for her next hockey romance!
I received an advanced review copy and am leaving a voluntary review base solely on my reading experience.
Lily is fiercely independent , intelligent, loyal and quick witted but she is also a fighter who has learned to protect her heart and her secrets. She had me feeling so many things but I was especially touched by her compassion and protectiveness for Chloe.
Brant is the typical good looking hockey star who is rich, confident and used to getting just what he wants when he wants it. At first, I doubted him, but how he revealed his gooey insides as he and Lily grow closer.
I always like the dual POV, the chemistry that grows and grows between Lily and Brant and the family that emerges at the end. Although it was a new type of hockey romance for me, Olivia Lynd is a storyteller that now has me a fan! I can't wait for her next hockey romance!
I received an advanced review copy and am leaving a voluntary review base solely on my reading experience.
June 28, 2024
Omg this book is so good. It features hockey so it was worth a read I thought. By Olivia Lynd it is a terrific read indeed! But where to start..Brant Morrison is an IceHockey Goalie , Holy Moly! He’s so cute , he’s first to fall and he has it all. Lily is a trans lady who lives next door , she has past issues she’s trying to deal with and supports her young friend transgender Chloe who she met at the youth hostel she volunteered at. Lily had her mother’s abusive behaviour until she was thirteen and with Chloe being only fifteen with two abusive parents who threw her out it’s a near shout that she understands her young friend and is the best friend she could have. It’s really cute how Brant calls them his girls and is so caring. Lily made a deal with her dad to move back to her hometown and stick it out for a year….Him being the goalie for the Salt Lake City Sting , now here’s the thing that has Lily stricken she is their new athletic coach and he makes her pulse quicken. There’s no way to avoid the chemistry but she is serving her year and she’s outta here. It just got complicated and extremely frustrating but really what would be so bad if they started dating? A very well written story by Ms Lynd whose characters are succinctly portrayed with angst and great wit as well as written spicily and very ,very icily ( couldn’t resist that one) . A cool love story with great depth and good backgrounding . A good read? It’s astounding.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2024
Home Ice by Olivia Lynd is a hockey romance novel and one which I enjoyed immensely. I am a great fan of hockey romances, so I was super exited to start reading it. When ice hockey goalie Brant meets his new gorgeous neighbor Lily, he is immediately attracted to her, while she wants nothing to do with him. But Brant does not take no for an answer and slowly wins her over. But Lily has a great secret.
This book was such a joy to read. I loved both Brant and Lily. Both are great characters and are hiding things and have a sad past. They are so cute and perfect for each other. I loved how the team accept Lily, because she is not some normal girl. I think Olivia Lynd made her a fantastic character, one you can feel for. At the same time I loved how Brant made Lily feel loved and accepted who she is. He is the boyfriend you want to have.
The writing style is flowing and I had a hard time putting the book down. There are some unexpected turns in the story, aside from who Lily is, and that made for great reading.
Home Ice is not your typical hockey romance, but I found it that most hockey romances come with a depth into the story, it’s not just boy meets girl, but in this book Olivia Lynd has taken a step further and that I just loved. It is fantastic how she put a sensitive subject in a romance story.
If you want to read a hockey romance story, with great characters and with a story that makes you think, this is it.
Highly recommended!
This book was such a joy to read. I loved both Brant and Lily. Both are great characters and are hiding things and have a sad past. They are so cute and perfect for each other. I loved how the team accept Lily, because she is not some normal girl. I think Olivia Lynd made her a fantastic character, one you can feel for. At the same time I loved how Brant made Lily feel loved and accepted who she is. He is the boyfriend you want to have.
The writing style is flowing and I had a hard time putting the book down. There are some unexpected turns in the story, aside from who Lily is, and that made for great reading.
Home Ice is not your typical hockey romance, but I found it that most hockey romances come with a depth into the story, it’s not just boy meets girl, but in this book Olivia Lynd has taken a step further and that I just loved. It is fantastic how she put a sensitive subject in a romance story.
If you want to read a hockey romance story, with great characters and with a story that makes you think, this is it.
Highly recommended!
June 4, 2024
Arc Review:
Overall Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 3.5 🔥🔥🔥
Tropes:
- Hockey Romance
- Next Door Neighbours
- Forced Proximity
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- Slow Burn
- Dual POV
- LGBTQ Rep’s
‘Home Ice’ is Olivia Lynd’s debut novel and she did not disappoint.
Before reading I didn’t realize how long this book was but, I think the plot and details held their own and I think now after reading this book it’s the perfect length. The writing style worked for the book and everything just flowed together really well. Once I got a couple of chapters in, I was hooked the storyline was just so good. I also found a majority of the characters to be very loveable and well written. I loved the main characters, Lily was amazing I also liked how Lily being trans wasn’t the main focus of the story, it was just apart of who she is. Brant, was simply amazing himself, I loved how he was so protective of Lily but he also knew she wasn’t weak. I also loved how after finding out she was trans his feelings never changed or faltered even for a second he just simply liked her. But I didn’t just love the main characters I also have a special place in my heart for the side characters as well, especially Chloe that girl deserves the world.
Now that I’m done ‘Home Ice’ I can’t wait to read Kayden’s and Em’s story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Overall Rating: 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 3.5 🔥🔥🔥
Tropes:
- Hockey Romance
- Next Door Neighbours
- Forced Proximity
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- Slow Burn
- Dual POV
- LGBTQ Rep’s
‘Home Ice’ is Olivia Lynd’s debut novel and she did not disappoint.
Before reading I didn’t realize how long this book was but, I think the plot and details held their own and I think now after reading this book it’s the perfect length. The writing style worked for the book and everything just flowed together really well. Once I got a couple of chapters in, I was hooked the storyline was just so good. I also found a majority of the characters to be very loveable and well written. I loved the main characters, Lily was amazing I also liked how Lily being trans wasn’t the main focus of the story, it was just apart of who she is. Brant, was simply amazing himself, I loved how he was so protective of Lily but he also knew she wasn’t weak. I also loved how after finding out she was trans his feelings never changed or faltered even for a second he just simply liked her. But I didn’t just love the main characters I also have a special place in my heart for the side characters as well, especially Chloe that girl deserves the world.
Now that I’m done ‘Home Ice’ I can’t wait to read Kayden’s and Em’s story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 24, 2025
This was overall an unpleasant reading experience. No, that's an understatement. It was pure torture.
Lily was a complete and utter bitch. Her entire personality was “grumpy” and there really wasn’t anything endearing about it. Self-absorbed, insecure, mean. Get over yourself.
The guy. Omg the guy! He started out okay in that lovable golden retriever boyfriend energy way. But then he’d pull out these sex-god-romance-hero lines that were super pushy and frankly uncomfortable to read. He was overbearing and invasive. Super red flag-y even if said red flag has a goofy grin on his face.
I was also super uncomfortable with his obsession with how hot he found Lily. Great, the transwoman has the ideal body with an hourglass figure, a great ass, and big breasts! Awesome. Most ciswomen don’t even look like that. I’m sure this was great for the confidence of transwomen everywhere.
And since we’re on that topic, do transwomen find it gender affirming to be treated like a ciswoman heroine in a romance novel? No but a serious question, is that a good thing? Lily was almost entirely interchangeable for a cis heroine like what even was the point of this. If that’s a good thing then I take back my judgement but for some reason I don’t think it is.
And perhaps even worse the story just drags and drags and drags on and on and on. What even was the plot? What happened?
I hate to be so mean to a queer book, but this was the biggest waste of my time.
Lily was a complete and utter bitch. Her entire personality was “grumpy” and there really wasn’t anything endearing about it. Self-absorbed, insecure, mean. Get over yourself.
The guy. Omg the guy! He started out okay in that lovable golden retriever boyfriend energy way. But then he’d pull out these sex-god-romance-hero lines that were super pushy and frankly uncomfortable to read. He was overbearing and invasive. Super red flag-y even if said red flag has a goofy grin on his face.
I was also super uncomfortable with his obsession with how hot he found Lily. Great, the transwoman has the ideal body with an hourglass figure, a great ass, and big breasts! Awesome. Most ciswomen don’t even look like that. I’m sure this was great for the confidence of transwomen everywhere.
And since we’re on that topic, do transwomen find it gender affirming to be treated like a ciswoman heroine in a romance novel? No but a serious question, is that a good thing? Lily was almost entirely interchangeable for a cis heroine like what even was the point of this. If that’s a good thing then I take back my judgement but for some reason I don’t think it is.
And perhaps even worse the story just drags and drags and drags on and on and on. What even was the plot? What happened?
I hate to be so mean to a queer book, but this was the biggest waste of my time.
October 20, 2025
4.5/5. This was so fun! And heartfelt. I absolutely adored this book. First, Lily. She's amazing. She can come off as grumpy, but she's trying to protect herself. She's kind and thoughtful and so funny. Brant is precious. He's so open, loving, and loves to care for others. He's protective and so kind. I love how they met, immediately found each other attractive, but fought it (well Lily fought it) for so long. It was a well earned slow burn. The sexual tension was there and it was wonderful. I also loved Chloe and how she fit in with their family immediately.
I loved the entire hockey team and appreciated that the stakes were low in terms of coworkers dating. The stakes were not low in terms of Lily being forced to share something about herself she did not want to share and that added some stress to the story. Overall, Lily was a delight and Brant was such a puppy dog. I thoroughly enjoyed these two together and their small family. Chloe's side story had me on the edge of my seat as well. My only small complaint is that this could've been slightly shorter. There was a lot of back and forth and we could've done with just a few less of those perhaps. Overall, I'd definitely recommend.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, trans rep, hockey, trainer/player, grief, found family, caretaking, queer mf, salt lake city utah, neighbors, great titles, great animal (dog Silver), grumpy/sunshine, golden retriever mc
I loved the entire hockey team and appreciated that the stakes were low in terms of coworkers dating. The stakes were not low in terms of Lily being forced to share something about herself she did not want to share and that added some stress to the story. Overall, Lily was a delight and Brant was such a puppy dog. I thoroughly enjoyed these two together and their small family. Chloe's side story had me on the edge of my seat as well. My only small complaint is that this could've been slightly shorter. There was a lot of back and forth and we could've done with just a few less of those perhaps. Overall, I'd definitely recommend.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, trans rep, hockey, trainer/player, grief, found family, caretaking, queer mf, salt lake city utah, neighbors, great titles, great animal (dog Silver), grumpy/sunshine, golden retriever mc
June 3, 2024
I love hockey romances so had to put my eyes on this one too.
The storyline is good and once the acceptance issues are out of the way, I really started enjoying the story. Also I believe it does a good job throwing topics that should be on the table and discussed on a more civilized way than what is happening nowadays with the LGBT community, specially in this case with trans people. It is nice to see them have happy endings, as everyone deserves.
On the characters side, I liked Lilly but it became unnerving sometimes her rejection due to fear towards Brant. She seems to accept those who are different but not really who shows her over and over that they are there for her (even when she pulls away). She is lucky Brant is a golden retriever and Kayden and the rest of the team too. According to all characters, Lilly is loved by everyone, but how she acts in the story doesn't reflect as much her value as it reflects the actions Brant, Michael, Em, the team (including the coach) or even Chloe do for her, and I wished that was more reflected in the story, not focusing on her insecurities and fears (all of them valid though).
Brant as an MC is a golden retriever, a sunshine, a cinamon roll, whatever you want yo call him that makes him wonderful.
Chloe and Silver have been my favourites so far, that kid is such a badass that I instantly loved her from the beginning.
The storyline is good and once the acceptance issues are out of the way, I really started enjoying the story. Also I believe it does a good job throwing topics that should be on the table and discussed on a more civilized way than what is happening nowadays with the LGBT community, specially in this case with trans people. It is nice to see them have happy endings, as everyone deserves.
On the characters side, I liked Lilly but it became unnerving sometimes her rejection due to fear towards Brant. She seems to accept those who are different but not really who shows her over and over that they are there for her (even when she pulls away). She is lucky Brant is a golden retriever and Kayden and the rest of the team too. According to all characters, Lilly is loved by everyone, but how she acts in the story doesn't reflect as much her value as it reflects the actions Brant, Michael, Em, the team (including the coach) or even Chloe do for her, and I wished that was more reflected in the story, not focusing on her insecurities and fears (all of them valid though).
Brant as an MC is a golden retriever, a sunshine, a cinamon roll, whatever you want yo call him that makes him wonderful.
Chloe and Silver have been my favourites so far, that kid is such a badass that I instantly loved her from the beginning.
June 11, 2024
Home Ice, debut novel for author Oliva Lynd is a phenomenal love story. It features next door neighbors and is a Hockey rom com. It features beautiful characters and while a longer novel it flew by because their story was incredible. I was completely in love with these characters, their relationships and their love story. Yes one character is transgender but it wasn't the entire plot it was just a piece of this characters identity. Do topics arise as a result, sure but it's quite touching.
Lily is intelligent, independent, committed and has a strong wit about her. She is also a fighter who has learned through experience to protect her heart and secrets. I love her relationship with both Brant and Chloe.
Brant is the typical attractive athlete who is confident, wealthy and frankly, used to getting just what he wants when he wants it. It was questionable whether he was likeable at the beginning of the novel but he turns out to be such a sweetheart.
Olivia Lynd is a brilliant storyteller who writes amazing characters, a new twist on an old trope and I expect will do well with this and future novels. I especially like the dual POV which historically was not always my favorite but it's perfect for this novel.
I received an advanced review copy and am leaving a voluntary review base solely on my reading experience.
Lily is intelligent, independent, committed and has a strong wit about her. She is also a fighter who has learned through experience to protect her heart and secrets. I love her relationship with both Brant and Chloe.
Brant is the typical attractive athlete who is confident, wealthy and frankly, used to getting just what he wants when he wants it. It was questionable whether he was likeable at the beginning of the novel but he turns out to be such a sweetheart.
Olivia Lynd is a brilliant storyteller who writes amazing characters, a new twist on an old trope and I expect will do well with this and future novels. I especially like the dual POV which historically was not always my favorite but it's perfect for this novel.
I received an advanced review copy and am leaving a voluntary review base solely on my reading experience.
June 17, 2024
I enjoyed this book very much, and will absolutely come back to read the next one in the series! I didn't realize until the end that this was the author's debut book, and that makes it even more impressive to me.
There were just some lingering questions that kept me from 5starring it. For instance, just how recently Lily's dad died. If the food was still good to share, then it must have been very recent. But she'd already had time to find a new job and move a lot of stuff, which didn't seem to fit with that timeline. I'd also have really liked to know a reason why he died. I just feel like you grieve differently when you lose someone to a medical cause, like a burst aneurysm, vs. external causes like a drunk driver.
I'd have also liked to see two conversations in the story about
There were just some lingering questions that kept me from 5starring it. For instance, just how recently Lily's dad died. If the food was still good to share, then it must have been very recent. But she'd already had time to find a new job and move a lot of stuff, which didn't seem to fit with that timeline. I'd also have really liked to know a reason why he died. I just feel like you grieve differently when you lose someone to a medical cause, like a burst aneurysm, vs. external causes like a drunk driver.
I'd have also liked to see two conversations in the story about
June 3, 2024
LOVES:
- The shelter for LGBTQ teens is such a beautiful place
- He’s a genuinely good person who just wants to be there for her. He accepts her as she is and has no qualms about her past.
- Every time she calls him out on his hero complex, though she could stand to accept a little help!
- Em is a great friend and all of the hockey team are good dudes. Great side characters. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
- The emphasis on consent 👏🏻
- Chloe’s situation is heart breaking 💔😭, but I love how they became their own little family 💞
- His speeches to the a-hole at the bar and to her b-word of a mom 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
- The way the whole team loves her and has her back - not to mention the way she sticks up for herself 🩷
CRITIQUES:
- The back and forth of their relationship gets to be too much… it’s drug out for too long. I understand she has insecurities, but keeping them apart for so long felt forced.
- Overall, it just should have been pared down a bit.
I really did enjoy these character’s stories and there were so many beautiful moments. I wanted it to be a little bit shorter, but it was so nice to read about characters who are so rarely represented in romance novels.
Thanks to BookSirens for the eARC.
- The shelter for LGBTQ teens is such a beautiful place
- He’s a genuinely good person who just wants to be there for her. He accepts her as she is and has no qualms about her past.
- Every time she calls him out on his hero complex, though she could stand to accept a little help!
- Em is a great friend and all of the hockey team are good dudes. Great side characters. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
- The emphasis on consent 👏🏻
- Chloe’s situation is heart breaking 💔😭, but I love how they became their own little family 💞
- His speeches to the a-hole at the bar and to her b-word of a mom 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
- The way the whole team loves her and has her back - not to mention the way she sticks up for herself 🩷
CRITIQUES:
- The back and forth of their relationship gets to be too much… it’s drug out for too long. I understand she has insecurities, but keeping them apart for so long felt forced.
- Overall, it just should have been pared down a bit.
I really did enjoy these character’s stories and there were so many beautiful moments. I wanted it to be a little bit shorter, but it was so nice to read about characters who are so rarely represented in romance novels.
Thanks to BookSirens for the eARC.
June 14, 2024
I'm going to start of by saying I'm usually not a fan of sports romances. However, this book is an exception the rule. Home Ice did a great job of working in the sports aspect of the book in a way that works with the plot. It adds to the romance that is done very well throughout the book.
As for the character, I found both the male and female lead engaging. Normally I can take or leave the male leads, but Brant, the male lead was especially understanding and non-toxic which helped with my interest for him.
The female lead Lily, was very believable and her personality and interests beyond the romance aspect of the book especially appealed to me. Both characters were dynamic.
I also liked the side characters. The author made Brant's teammates worthy of caring about, and one special character that comes up in the book was a favorite of mine.
Overall this was a book I'd read again. It kept me interested throughout and I enjoyed the ending. I'm not a fan of one particular trope that often comes up in romance, where the couple tends to have issues in the third act. However, it wasn't a huge issue in this book so I personally liked that.
I received a advance review copy of the this book for free and I'm leaving this review of my own volition.
As for the character, I found both the male and female lead engaging. Normally I can take or leave the male leads, but Brant, the male lead was especially understanding and non-toxic which helped with my interest for him.
The female lead Lily, was very believable and her personality and interests beyond the romance aspect of the book especially appealed to me. Both characters were dynamic.
I also liked the side characters. The author made Brant's teammates worthy of caring about, and one special character that comes up in the book was a favorite of mine.
Overall this was a book I'd read again. It kept me interested throughout and I enjoyed the ending. I'm not a fan of one particular trope that often comes up in romance, where the couple tends to have issues in the third act. However, it wasn't a huge issue in this book so I personally liked that.
I received a advance review copy of the this book for free and I'm leaving this review of my own volition.
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