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Desert Ice Hockey #3
Ice Rivals
I should hate him. But after learning the truth, how could I not fall for him?Mason
My rookie season in the NHL started with a gut punch.
There he was, standing in my locker room. Jett Jarvis, a player hated by his former teammates.
He has an arrogant smirk, intense eyes, and a birthmark that looks…too familiar. I’m sure I saw it on the dude who dumped me in my hookup app.
They say Jarvis isn’t gay, but I bet he’s the same jerk.
I’m getting to the bottom of this, even if it means pushing his buttons until he snaps.
But the more I mess with him, my anger loses out to my attraction.
Jett
The last thing I need is the league's new gay icon strutting into my life.
Mason Hopkins is cocky, relentless, and too damn close to the truth. My secret. The one that could ruin everything.
But as he pushes, something inside me shifts.
The line between loathing him and wanting him blurs with every heated exchange, every accidental touch.
The thread between love and hate is razor-thin, and we’re skating on the edge.
Ice Rivals is the third book in the college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a closeted player with a traumatic past and a self-assured rookie, a secret relationship, found family, hurt/comfort and some close proximity. Desert Ice Hockey follows a group of queer hockey players, known as the squad, while they each battle for their HEA.
Buy now to explore a world where emotions run as high as the heat, and hockey isn’t the only game in town!
My rookie season in the NHL started with a gut punch.
There he was, standing in my locker room. Jett Jarvis, a player hated by his former teammates.
He has an arrogant smirk, intense eyes, and a birthmark that looks…too familiar. I’m sure I saw it on the dude who dumped me in my hookup app.
They say Jarvis isn’t gay, but I bet he’s the same jerk.
I’m getting to the bottom of this, even if it means pushing his buttons until he snaps.
But the more I mess with him, my anger loses out to my attraction.
Jett
The last thing I need is the league's new gay icon strutting into my life.
Mason Hopkins is cocky, relentless, and too damn close to the truth. My secret. The one that could ruin everything.
But as he pushes, something inside me shifts.
The line between loathing him and wanting him blurs with every heated exchange, every accidental touch.
The thread between love and hate is razor-thin, and we’re skating on the edge.
Ice Rivals is the third book in the college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a closeted player with a traumatic past and a self-assured rookie, a secret relationship, found family, hurt/comfort and some close proximity. Desert Ice Hockey follows a group of queer hockey players, known as the squad, while they each battle for their HEA.
Buy now to explore a world where emotions run as high as the heat, and hockey isn’t the only game in town!
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2024
217 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Christie Gordon
56 books248 followersChristie Gordon is the author of steamy, heartfelt gay romance novels that explore the emotional journey of men discovering themselves and finding love. It all started when she stumbled upon MM fanfiction by accident—and let's just say, it was love at first read. Inspired by the genre's mix of passion and complexity, Christie transitioned from reading about men in love to writing her own stories. After taking fiction writing classes at a local community college, she published her first MM romance novel in 2009 with a small press, and she’s never looked back.
When she’s not writing, Christie watches boys-love dramas, creates digital art, or is serenaded by her snoring one-eyed rescue pug. A graduate of both Electrical Engineering (BS) and Business Administration (MBA), she spends her "day job" navigating the high-tech world, but her heart belongs to the characters who live in her books. Christie currently resides in the Phoenix metro area, though she’s also lived in California’s Bay Area and Minnesota (which probably explains her deep love of pumpkin spiced latte coffees and hockey).
She’s also the proud mother of two young-adult sons who provide plenty of material for stories—usually in the form of chaotic shenanigans. But no matter what, Christie’s always up for a new adventure, whether it's on the page or in the real world.
For information about her and her work, please visit her website at: www.christiegordon.com
Sign up for her Newsletter for free reads, updates and give aways: https:www.ChristieGordon.com/newsletter
Join her Reader’s Group for exclusive content: Christie’s Cocktale Cafe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chris...
To friend or follow:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristieGord...
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When she’s not writing, Christie watches boys-love dramas, creates digital art, or is serenaded by her snoring one-eyed rescue pug. A graduate of both Electrical Engineering (BS) and Business Administration (MBA), she spends her "day job" navigating the high-tech world, but her heart belongs to the characters who live in her books. Christie currently resides in the Phoenix metro area, though she’s also lived in California’s Bay Area and Minnesota (which probably explains her deep love of pumpkin spiced latte coffees and hockey).
She’s also the proud mother of two young-adult sons who provide plenty of material for stories—usually in the form of chaotic shenanigans. But no matter what, Christie’s always up for a new adventure, whether it's on the page or in the real world.
For information about her and her work, please visit her website at: www.christiegordon.com
Sign up for her Newsletter for free reads, updates and give aways: https:www.ChristieGordon.com/newsletter
Join her Reader’s Group for exclusive content: Christie’s Cocktale Cafe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chris...
To friend or follow:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristieGord...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/chris...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christiegor...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
November 21, 2024
Tropes: hurt/comfort, sports romance
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: some toys
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, hate crime, religious minor character who weaponizes religion to be homophobic, injury
3.25 stars
Jett is 26 and he is a pretty solid NHL player. He's been in the closet because his dad is married to a very religious b**** of a stepmother and he's afraid his dad might be influenced by her homophobia. He doesn't want to wreck his relationship with his dad, because his mom is dead, he is his only parent. Jett hasn't lived a free in full life, he's held himself back, he hasn't had relationships other than HJ/BJ hookups, he hasn't been open in building friendships. When one of his teammates catches him with a hookup, the teammate is homophobic and spreads hate, bullies him, a bunch of other teammates are homophobic too. He has to leave his team to get away from the bullying. NDA's are signed to keep it quiet.
He's traded to a team that has two out NHL players on it, and the team is very accepting and supportive. But he still not ready to come out. He accidentally meets one of his teammates, Mason, 23, on a hookup app and they almost took up, but Jett recognizes Mason by his tattoos and cancels the hook up. But Mason recognizes Jett because of his birthmark and also Mason's gaydar is going off pretty hard for Jett. Mason hounds Jett trying to get him to admit that he's gay and it was him on the hookup app. They start to fall for each other.
I wasn't a huge fan of this book. It was an interesting premise, but the tension evaporated pretty quick. And I had a huge problem with Mason, I found him to be really badgering Jett to admit his sexuality (before they got together) and he was sexually harassing Jett and making him uncomfortable in his workplace. His early behavior was really toxic, yeah he didn't know Jett well, he wasn't 100% sure he was gay, and he didn't know why Jett was in the closet, so he didn't know that he should be more sensitive. But that's just it, you never know someone's reasons for being in the closet, and you need to respect when people tell you that they are not gay even if you don't believe that that is true. If they don't want to come out to you or others, they're either not gay or they have personal reasons and you need to leave them the f*** alone. You can express that you are supportive and be ready to be an ally, make a safe space where they would feel safe to come out, without putting pressure on them and harming them, forcing them to come out.
And even after they got together, I felt like Mason was pushing it. Jett just agreed to date as long as they did it in secret and he didn't have to come out, and Mason thinks that it's appropriate to suggest that their first date be one that is in public at a bar on a drag night inviting his captain and telling him to come out to his captain? And Mason outed Jett to Archer. Mason doesn't get it. Jett deserved some space to process, to think. After Jett expressed that he did want to come out, Mason was supportive of that and I could appreciate things from that point on, but there was a lot that went on before that that was unacceptable behavior to me. This book did not handle coming out with sensitivity.
Elaborating on that, I think this book went astray by putting so much focus on Jett's coming out. In every get together that they've had, they are talking about his coming out plans or issues. I wish they could just be sometimes, get to know the other person for who they are and not just be talking about coming out. It is pigeon-holeing Jett's identity and making it all about coming out unless about who he is as a human holistically. Their relationship comes off superficial in an odd way because they are just moving unnaturally fast into decisions that are huge for their life on the basis of a relationship that is still superficial and so early. There isn't depth there yet. It's so weird that they defined the relationship so fast and jumped straight to telling all the people that are important to them, friends, colleagues, family, agent. It is intense. I want to see something genuine, organic, something subtle developing, rather than coming out being the be all and end all of their story / personality - it comes off as fetishizing coming out.
Another random small thing that I didn't love. I didn't like when Jett all of a sudden kind of s*** shamed Mason for being on PrEP and asked him in an exclaiming and judging tone about how many partners he'd had. He acted surprised, but Mason told him already earlier that he's on PrEP. And it's slut shaming him to react this way, he knows Mason is out and has a normal sex drive and that he's always done one nighters instead of relationships. Does he honestly think the number is going to be low? And that he has any right to be butthurt over it? Just because he hasn't been out or comfortable, doesn't mean that Mason should have lived his life any different. Also, I personally don't like people using PrEP as an excuse not to use condoms or at least have STI testing done beforehand. PrEP is just about HIV. There's other STIs that matter.
I wish they had been together longer as a couple before they had their big coming-out scene with their team. They've only been together for a month. And it's really fast for them to be saying I love you, I'm all in, moving in and their coaches being so enthusiastic about their relationship and saying this is such a good thing them being together. It isn't realistic, it would be more believable if they had a longer history of being in a secret relationship before coming out, then it would be more believable that the coaches think this won't impact the team, the coaches will know from experience that they're able to juggle being a couple and keeping it professional. Not that I want them to be in the closet or anything, it just seems like an overreaction for the coaches to be so enthusiastic and for them as a couple to be saying I love you so fast.
Some notable moments:
"“Uh, better. What’s that for?” Jett pointed at the teddy bear. “For you, of course.” With a glance at me, Ace handed it to Jett. “We figured when Mason is out at the next away games and you’re stuck here, you’d need something to cuddle up to at night.” He winked at him. “You can pretend it’s Mason, but no funny stuff.” He wagged his index finger at him. Choking out a laugh, Jett said, “Right.” He twisted the bear and kissed it on the nose. “It does sort of resemble Mason.”"
"A male reporter stood. “So the big question is, are you still allowed to bunk together on the road?” He chuckled. With a sharp laugh, I dipped my head and then faced the reporter. “No matter who coach has us bunking with, I’ll find my way into Jett’s bed.” “Oh, is that a fact, Hopkins?” With a smirk, Coach twisted toward me. “Uh…” I scratched my temple. Shit, maybe I should have kept that one to myself."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: some toys
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: homophobia, hate crime, religious minor character who weaponizes religion to be homophobic, injury
3.25 stars
Jett is 26 and he is a pretty solid NHL player. He's been in the closet because his dad is married to a very religious b**** of a stepmother and he's afraid his dad might be influenced by her homophobia. He doesn't want to wreck his relationship with his dad, because his mom is dead, he is his only parent. Jett hasn't lived a free in full life, he's held himself back, he hasn't had relationships other than HJ/BJ hookups, he hasn't been open in building friendships. When one of his teammates catches him with a hookup, the teammate is homophobic and spreads hate, bullies him, a bunch of other teammates are homophobic too. He has to leave his team to get away from the bullying. NDA's are signed to keep it quiet.
He's traded to a team that has two out NHL players on it, and the team is very accepting and supportive. But he still not ready to come out. He accidentally meets one of his teammates, Mason, 23, on a hookup app and they almost took up, but Jett recognizes Mason by his tattoos and cancels the hook up. But Mason recognizes Jett because of his birthmark and also Mason's gaydar is going off pretty hard for Jett. Mason hounds Jett trying to get him to admit that he's gay and it was him on the hookup app. They start to fall for each other.
I wasn't a huge fan of this book. It was an interesting premise, but the tension evaporated pretty quick. And I had a huge problem with Mason, I found him to be really badgering Jett to admit his sexuality (before they got together) and he was sexually harassing Jett and making him uncomfortable in his workplace. His early behavior was really toxic, yeah he didn't know Jett well, he wasn't 100% sure he was gay, and he didn't know why Jett was in the closet, so he didn't know that he should be more sensitive. But that's just it, you never know someone's reasons for being in the closet, and you need to respect when people tell you that they are not gay even if you don't believe that that is true. If they don't want to come out to you or others, they're either not gay or they have personal reasons and you need to leave them the f*** alone. You can express that you are supportive and be ready to be an ally, make a safe space where they would feel safe to come out, without putting pressure on them and harming them, forcing them to come out.
And even after they got together, I felt like Mason was pushing it. Jett just agreed to date as long as they did it in secret and he didn't have to come out, and Mason thinks that it's appropriate to suggest that their first date be one that is in public at a bar on a drag night inviting his captain and telling him to come out to his captain? And Mason outed Jett to Archer. Mason doesn't get it. Jett deserved some space to process, to think. After Jett expressed that he did want to come out, Mason was supportive of that and I could appreciate things from that point on, but there was a lot that went on before that that was unacceptable behavior to me. This book did not handle coming out with sensitivity.
Elaborating on that, I think this book went astray by putting so much focus on Jett's coming out. In every get together that they've had, they are talking about his coming out plans or issues. I wish they could just be sometimes, get to know the other person for who they are and not just be talking about coming out. It is pigeon-holeing Jett's identity and making it all about coming out unless about who he is as a human holistically. Their relationship comes off superficial in an odd way because they are just moving unnaturally fast into decisions that are huge for their life on the basis of a relationship that is still superficial and so early. There isn't depth there yet. It's so weird that they defined the relationship so fast and jumped straight to telling all the people that are important to them, friends, colleagues, family, agent. It is intense. I want to see something genuine, organic, something subtle developing, rather than coming out being the be all and end all of their story / personality - it comes off as fetishizing coming out.
Another random small thing that I didn't love. I didn't like when Jett all of a sudden kind of s*** shamed Mason for being on PrEP and asked him in an exclaiming and judging tone about how many partners he'd had. He acted surprised, but Mason told him already earlier that he's on PrEP. And it's slut shaming him to react this way, he knows Mason is out and has a normal sex drive and that he's always done one nighters instead of relationships. Does he honestly think the number is going to be low? And that he has any right to be butthurt over it? Just because he hasn't been out or comfortable, doesn't mean that Mason should have lived his life any different. Also, I personally don't like people using PrEP as an excuse not to use condoms or at least have STI testing done beforehand. PrEP is just about HIV. There's other STIs that matter.
I wish they had been together longer as a couple before they had their big coming-out scene with their team. They've only been together for a month. And it's really fast for them to be saying I love you, I'm all in, moving in and their coaches being so enthusiastic about their relationship and saying this is such a good thing them being together. It isn't realistic, it would be more believable if they had a longer history of being in a secret relationship before coming out, then it would be more believable that the coaches think this won't impact the team, the coaches will know from experience that they're able to juggle being a couple and keeping it professional. Not that I want them to be in the closet or anything, it just seems like an overreaction for the coaches to be so enthusiastic and for them as a couple to be saying I love you so fast.
Some notable moments:
"“Uh, better. What’s that for?” Jett pointed at the teddy bear. “For you, of course.” With a glance at me, Ace handed it to Jett. “We figured when Mason is out at the next away games and you’re stuck here, you’d need something to cuddle up to at night.” He winked at him. “You can pretend it’s Mason, but no funny stuff.” He wagged his index finger at him. Choking out a laugh, Jett said, “Right.” He twisted the bear and kissed it on the nose. “It does sort of resemble Mason.”"
"A male reporter stood. “So the big question is, are you still allowed to bunk together on the road?” He chuckled. With a sharp laugh, I dipped my head and then faced the reporter. “No matter who coach has us bunking with, I’ll find my way into Jett’s bed.” “Oh, is that a fact, Hopkins?” With a smirk, Coach twisted toward me. “Uh…” I scratched my temple. Shit, maybe I should have kept that one to myself."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
dnf 56%
The writing is so bad that it was a real struggle to get this far. I had to keep putting it down. The sentence structure is extremely repetitive. Some sentences are so poorly-formed that they don't actually make sense unless you ignore the way they're written. E.g., "Turning my head, butterflies filled my stomach." Did the butterflies turn the character's head? Obviously not, but that's what the author wrote.
Most of the time, the narrative is just a repetitive list of actions. And often, the prose is needlessly clunky because of it. Like, the author can't just write "The room was blue." They instead write, "Looking around the room, I observed that the walls were blue." Does that add any extra information or add to the atmosphere or do anything positive at all? No. But it does make it so much more painful to read. Really exhausting to force my way through the writing it when all I wanted to do the entire time was get out a red pen and start editing.
The author also makes frequent mistakes that could have been fixed with a single read-through. Sometimes the dialogue is bafflingly unnatural, and sometimes it makes you question your own sanity. I'm not sure this was even beta-read, much less edited. Surely, if it was, someone would have caught all the repetition and contradictions.
Mason sucks, and trying to force someone out of the closet is extremely shitty. But at least that part was sort of interesting even if it was problematic. They got together so fast, and it sapped all of the tension out of the book. Fully all-in within 24 hours of their first kiss. And then we just get to enjoy boring cameos, and repetitive, dull coming out scenes. And more of Mason being a dickhead who has never heard of boundaries or respect.
I might finish this just because I'm procrastinating doing my taxes, but probably not.
The writing is so bad that it was a real struggle to get this far. I had to keep putting it down. The sentence structure is extremely repetitive. Some sentences are so poorly-formed that they don't actually make sense unless you ignore the way they're written. E.g., "Turning my head, butterflies filled my stomach." Did the butterflies turn the character's head? Obviously not, but that's what the author wrote.
Most of the time, the narrative is just a repetitive list of actions. And often, the prose is needlessly clunky because of it. Like, the author can't just write "The room was blue." They instead write, "Looking around the room, I observed that the walls were blue." Does that add any extra information or add to the atmosphere or do anything positive at all? No. But it does make it so much more painful to read. Really exhausting to force my way through the writing it when all I wanted to do the entire time was get out a red pen and start editing.
The author also makes frequent mistakes that could have been fixed with a single read-through. Sometimes the dialogue is bafflingly unnatural, and sometimes it makes you question your own sanity. I'm not sure this was even beta-read, much less edited. Surely, if it was, someone would have caught all the repetition and contradictions.
Mason sucks, and trying to force someone out of the closet is extremely shitty. But at least that part was sort of interesting even if it was problematic. They got together so fast, and it sapped all of the tension out of the book. Fully all-in within 24 hours of their first kiss. And then we just get to enjoy boring cameos, and repetitive, dull coming out scenes. And more of Mason being a dickhead who has never heard of boundaries or respect.
I might finish this just because I'm procrastinating doing my taxes, but probably not.
March 19, 2025
Three and a half pages in and I'm starting this off with one star; we'll see if that goes up at the end. If the over description of things keep going at this pace (eight color descriptions just in the first three and a half pages), it'll be a DNF for me. The negative stereotype right towards the beginning almost did it for me.
Update 1: Slightly better, but then came across this line. It is so incredibly toxic and so very dangerous; “I’m not sure how much you know about PrEP, but just in case, I can’t get HIV or transmit it to you.”
Update 1: Slightly better, but then came across this line. It is so incredibly toxic and so very dangerous; “I’m not sure how much you know about PrEP, but just in case, I can’t get HIV or transmit it to you.”
December 9, 2024
Loved it! Great addition to the previous stories. The Squad is still in full force. Mason and Archer are now playing in the NHL. Rookie season for the Coyotes. A player is traded to the team under a cloud of controversy. Mason is immediately drawn to Jett Jarvis, who everyone knows is straight, or is he?
This is another fun read with some light angst and a great romance. Love these balls to the wall Squad members.
5/5 stars <3
This is another fun read with some light angst and a great romance. Love these balls to the wall Squad members.
5/5 stars <3
November 10, 2024
A good continuation of the Desert Ice Hockey series following Mason as he begins his foray into pro-hockey with the Coyotes.
Mason and Jett almost meet by accident through the app. However, Jett noticed and cuts it off, but has unwittingly revealed himself as well. Then they both "recognize" each other and through much maneuvering by both, they eventually hit it off.
Jett was ostracized by his old team in Dallas because of actions by his teammate. Jett must switch to another team and lands on the Coyotes. The reasons are kept under wraps but come to a head when Dallas plays the Coyotes and it leads to injury. Everyone comes together to help Mason and Jett find their HEA.
Another shining story with lots of spice by Christie Gordon where love, support, and communication can help you navigate your struggles and growth and find your HEA.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC for this book. Nothing was given for the review.
Mason and Jett almost meet by accident through the app. However, Jett noticed and cuts it off, but has unwittingly revealed himself as well. Then they both "recognize" each other and through much maneuvering by both, they eventually hit it off.
Jett was ostracized by his old team in Dallas because of actions by his teammate. Jett must switch to another team and lands on the Coyotes. The reasons are kept under wraps but come to a head when Dallas plays the Coyotes and it leads to injury. Everyone comes together to help Mason and Jett find their HEA.
Another shining story with lots of spice by Christie Gordon where love, support, and communication can help you navigate your struggles and growth and find your HEA.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC for this book. Nothing was given for the review.
December 1, 2024
Book three in the Desert Ice Hockey Series. I advise reading in order to get the most out of this story.
Who doesn’t love an ice hockey romance story!
I enjoyed this one, just as I’ve enjoyed the others in the series
Who doesn’t love an ice hockey romance story!
I enjoyed this one, just as I’ve enjoyed the others in the series
December 8, 2025
Edited June 2025
I loved the book when I first read it when it came out. Now I’ve had the chance to listen to the audiobook, and I enjoyed it even more. Finnley Cole’s narration is amazing. Mason and Jett really come to life in such an awesome way. The tone, the inflections, the accents… there are so many things I loved about it that all I can do is recommend it. I gave it five stars back then for the story, and now those five stars definitely carry over to the audiobook too.
Thanks Christie Gordon for the free ALC!
***
“This is good, isn’t it? We’re good together.”
He dropped his hand to his side, his eyes widening. “Yeah, we’re good together.”
“Don’t hook up with anyone else. Okay?”
“I… I wasn’t going to.” He tilted his head and curled the corner of his mouth. “If you even think about it, I might have to kill you.”
“Yeah? Good. I’m not going to think about it.”
Ice Rivals by Christie Gordon is the third book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. I’ve loved everything in this book. Not only because of the lovable characters, Mason being a Golden Retriever and Jett having gone through everything he had to endure, but also because of the topics dealt in it.
Mason is an out-and-proud rookie in the NHL together with Archer another rookie, and one of the MCs in the first book in the series, Stick By Me. They both were part of “the Squad” in the previous books. Jett is Archer and Mason’s closeted teammate who’s been through the wringer with homophobia and family issues. Right from their first interaction, there’s a spark between them, and you can feel Mason’s mix of playfulness and compassion as he tries to help Jett be comfortable in his own skin.
What I liked the most in this story is the balance between humour and romance with the very real struggles Jett faces. Mason’s teasing and attempts to get Jett to open up are charming but also serve to gently push Jett to confront what he’s afraid of. The chemistry between them is out of charts, and there’s a sense of real support and care that goes beyond just attraction. Mason’s friends are also important pieces of Jett’s surrounding comfort net. I also liked Jett’s sister and his dad's behaviour after the game against Dallas.
“Who’d have thought you coming out would lead to all of this?”
“No, who’d have thought me meeting you would lead to all of this.” He leaned in and pressed a long, slow kiss on my lips. “You made this possible, Mason. Your love set me free.”
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s a journey about finding yourself and choosing happiness, making it one of my favourites, if not the most, in the Desert Ice Hockey series. I recommend this book and the previous books in this series.
I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I loved the book when I first read it when it came out. Now I’ve had the chance to listen to the audiobook, and I enjoyed it even more. Finnley Cole’s narration is amazing. Mason and Jett really come to life in such an awesome way. The tone, the inflections, the accents… there are so many things I loved about it that all I can do is recommend it. I gave it five stars back then for the story, and now those five stars definitely carry over to the audiobook too.
Thanks Christie Gordon for the free ALC!
***
“This is good, isn’t it? We’re good together.”
He dropped his hand to his side, his eyes widening. “Yeah, we’re good together.”
“Don’t hook up with anyone else. Okay?”
“I… I wasn’t going to.” He tilted his head and curled the corner of his mouth. “If you even think about it, I might have to kill you.”
“Yeah? Good. I’m not going to think about it.”
Ice Rivals by Christie Gordon is the third book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. I’ve loved everything in this book. Not only because of the lovable characters, Mason being a Golden Retriever and Jett having gone through everything he had to endure, but also because of the topics dealt in it.
Mason is an out-and-proud rookie in the NHL together with Archer another rookie, and one of the MCs in the first book in the series, Stick By Me. They both were part of “the Squad” in the previous books. Jett is Archer and Mason’s closeted teammate who’s been through the wringer with homophobia and family issues. Right from their first interaction, there’s a spark between them, and you can feel Mason’s mix of playfulness and compassion as he tries to help Jett be comfortable in his own skin.
What I liked the most in this story is the balance between humour and romance with the very real struggles Jett faces. Mason’s teasing and attempts to get Jett to open up are charming but also serve to gently push Jett to confront what he’s afraid of. The chemistry between them is out of charts, and there’s a sense of real support and care that goes beyond just attraction. Mason’s friends are also important pieces of Jett’s surrounding comfort net. I also liked Jett’s sister and his dad's behaviour after the game against Dallas.
“Who’d have thought you coming out would lead to all of this?”
“No, who’d have thought me meeting you would lead to all of this.” He leaned in and pressed a long, slow kiss on my lips. “You made this possible, Mason. Your love set me free.”
This book isn’t just a romance; it’s a journey about finding yourself and choosing happiness, making it one of my favourites, if not the most, in the Desert Ice Hockey series. I recommend this book and the previous books in this series.
I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
November 19, 2024
Despite reading many of Christie Gordon's short stories, this is the first Desert Ice Hockey novel I've read, and I LOVED IT! This book is the third one if the series, and reading it made me want to go back and read the previous books to fill in some of the blanks. What I liked is that even though I was very new to the series, the blanks weren't frequent enough to confuse or frustrate me and I couldn't simply focus on the main story in the book. Here are a few more things I liked about the book:
1 - It took place between adults. I've read many MM romance novels, most which revolve around High School students. I love these stories, but I'm 38 and graduated from High School two decades ago so I can't relate to most of them. Since Mason and Jett are in their 20s and are no longer in college, I felt I could relate to their story more than I could to one about two High Schoolers falling in love.
2 - The characters were believable. So what I mean by that statement is that I knew people in my life who could easily represent the characters explored in the book. My friends and I don't play Hockey, but I know people that act like Mazon and Jett, I have friends like Archer in my own life, and as I read the book I started to notice similarities between the characters and people I knew in real life. These all made the book feel real to me, and thus, believable.
3 - It checked both boxes. A lot of time when I'm reading a MM book I usually expect them to either be really steamy and smutty, or very vanilla and romantic. This book gave me both. Yes, there were plenty of romantic scenes that warmed your heart, but there were also plenty of steamy scenes that made my heart race. It was great to find a book that was able to do both, rather than give one and be devoid of the rest.
4 - The chapters aren't too long. That may not be a plus to a lot of people, but as someone who has a lot going on in his life, I liked that I could open the book during my downtime and read a chapter or two before I had to go to the next step in my to-do list. I also felt that since the chapters weren't too long I never had to stay up too late to finish a chapter or worry that I never had enough time to finish reading a few pages. It was a perfect book to pick up and start reading.
5 - You don't need to know a lot about Hockey. As I said, my friends and I don't play or watch Hockey, and even though there are some Hockey terms in the book, I never felt like I had to brush up on my knowledge of the sport to understand what was going on. So, if your knowledge of Hockey doesn't expand past watching the Mighty Ducks movies as a kid like me, don't worry. You Won't be lost.
If all of these points sound good to you don't be afraid to check out the book, even if you're new to the series like I am. Now if you excuse me, I'm going to go ahead and buy books one and two so I read them as well!
1 - It took place between adults. I've read many MM romance novels, most which revolve around High School students. I love these stories, but I'm 38 and graduated from High School two decades ago so I can't relate to most of them. Since Mason and Jett are in their 20s and are no longer in college, I felt I could relate to their story more than I could to one about two High Schoolers falling in love.
2 - The characters were believable. So what I mean by that statement is that I knew people in my life who could easily represent the characters explored in the book. My friends and I don't play Hockey, but I know people that act like Mazon and Jett, I have friends like Archer in my own life, and as I read the book I started to notice similarities between the characters and people I knew in real life. These all made the book feel real to me, and thus, believable.
3 - It checked both boxes. A lot of time when I'm reading a MM book I usually expect them to either be really steamy and smutty, or very vanilla and romantic. This book gave me both. Yes, there were plenty of romantic scenes that warmed your heart, but there were also plenty of steamy scenes that made my heart race. It was great to find a book that was able to do both, rather than give one and be devoid of the rest.
4 - The chapters aren't too long. That may not be a plus to a lot of people, but as someone who has a lot going on in his life, I liked that I could open the book during my downtime and read a chapter or two before I had to go to the next step in my to-do list. I also felt that since the chapters weren't too long I never had to stay up too late to finish a chapter or worry that I never had enough time to finish reading a few pages. It was a perfect book to pick up and start reading.
5 - You don't need to know a lot about Hockey. As I said, my friends and I don't play or watch Hockey, and even though there are some Hockey terms in the book, I never felt like I had to brush up on my knowledge of the sport to understand what was going on. So, if your knowledge of Hockey doesn't expand past watching the Mighty Ducks movies as a kid like me, don't worry. You Won't be lost.
If all of these points sound good to you don't be afraid to check out the book, even if you're new to the series like I am. Now if you excuse me, I'm going to go ahead and buy books one and two so I read them as well!
September 20, 2025
Not exactly an enemies to lovers story, more like 'he's a pain in my a*se to lovers story.' I have to say that Mason totally irritated me at first. He's the kind of person I'd give a wide berth to, loud, full of bravado, such a high opinion of himself. Like a persistent fly, you just want to swat! How Jett initially kept his hands from around his throat, I do not know!
However, it was a really good story, and if ever I find myself in trouble, I definitely want Mason on my side, even though he is full of himself (as he rightly admits). On the other side of the coin, Mason is a good guy. He stands up for himself, loves his friends, and will do what he has to do to protect those friends.
I loved how Jett knew that he loved Mason but couldn't stop fear from getting in the way, his emotions running high throughout! It was cute how Mason and his squad took Jett under their wing and decided to look out for him. They were wonderful, helping him calm his nerves, helping him find the courage to be himself. Ultimately, he and Mason are lovely together. They're snuggly, caring, and cute. I'm already looking forward to Ace's story.
However, it was a really good story, and if ever I find myself in trouble, I definitely want Mason on my side, even though he is full of himself (as he rightly admits). On the other side of the coin, Mason is a good guy. He stands up for himself, loves his friends, and will do what he has to do to protect those friends.
I loved how Jett knew that he loved Mason but couldn't stop fear from getting in the way, his emotions running high throughout! It was cute how Mason and his squad took Jett under their wing and decided to look out for him. They were wonderful, helping him calm his nerves, helping him find the courage to be himself. Ultimately, he and Mason are lovely together. They're snuggly, caring, and cute. I'm already looking forward to Ace's story.
June 18, 2025
Ice Rivals is the third book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. I feel it is best to read this series in order to get the most out of the story so why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Mason a rookie on the team and Jett a fellow team mate. I couldn't put this book down once I started it. This book has a truly wonderful message in it about being who you really are. I enjoyed watching Jett become who he wanted to be. Mason was the perfect person to help him get there. If you get the audio narration, Finnley Cole does a wonderful job of narrating this series. He makes the change in characters seamlessly. I can't wait to listen to the next book. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
April 26, 2025
DNF. Harassment is not attractive. Outing someone isn’t either. Shaming someone for their sexual history is also a no. 👎🏽🙅You have been warned.
November 29, 2024
okay once they got together mason mellowed out but wtf was the first 30% ??? mason was such a predatory creep??? i hope goodreads lets me connect my kindle notes soon cause you gotta see it to believe it
November 20, 2024
Book #3 in Christie's "Desert Ice Hockey" series follows main characters Mason Hopkins (NHL rookie right winger) and Jett Jarvis (26 yo NHL left winger). Jett got traded to the Phoenix Coyotes from the Dallas Stars over the summer. We follow these guys from summer training camp to Christmas, and it's one heck of a roller coaster ride!
Mason's a member of "the squad", a group of 6 queer hockey players who all came to Arizona State University to play together on the same team. 3 of the guys are still at ASU, and 3 have just graduated and have made it to the NHL as rookies. Mason and his buddy Archer were drafted by Arizona, and one more by Toronto. Their group chat is still intact and they all continue to support each other even though the guys no longer play on the same team together or live under the same roof.
We discover early on that Jett got traded by Dallas to Phoenix because the team learned he's a closeted gay guy and there was heavy friction once the other Dallas players found out. The first day of training camp Mason meets Jett in the Phoenix locker room and sparks fly. They start playing on the same line are assigned as hotel roomies for away games. By the second road trip they can't hold back and get physical.
They encounter some pretty heavy obstacles as they start their journey together, which keeps you turning the pages intently. Main ones include a homophobic stepmom who stirs up plenty of angst, and a rematch with Jett's former Dallas team who still don't accept Jett's sexuality and want blood. But the bedroom scenes are really steamy in this one, and I loved all the cameos with the other members of "the squad" who all step in and help Mason & Jett overcome their roadblocks and bond as a couple. Ultimately Christie gives us the HEA we need after all the angst. And we get a hint that the next book in the series is about Ace - the ASU goalie and a fellow member of "the squad."
If you follow professional sports, there are a couple of things missing here. One is Mason having to successfully make the team in summer tryouts. He just magically becomes a starter as a rookie. And in Jett's coming out process and relationship status with Mason, the respective team's PR folks are non-existent. You know in real life they would have been heavily involved. But that's just me as a sports guy. The storyline is compelling and you really get emotionally involved with Mason & Jett from the first chapter. Can't wait to see what happens next in book 4 with Ace!
Mason's a member of "the squad", a group of 6 queer hockey players who all came to Arizona State University to play together on the same team. 3 of the guys are still at ASU, and 3 have just graduated and have made it to the NHL as rookies. Mason and his buddy Archer were drafted by Arizona, and one more by Toronto. Their group chat is still intact and they all continue to support each other even though the guys no longer play on the same team together or live under the same roof.
We discover early on that Jett got traded by Dallas to Phoenix because the team learned he's a closeted gay guy and there was heavy friction once the other Dallas players found out. The first day of training camp Mason meets Jett in the Phoenix locker room and sparks fly. They start playing on the same line are assigned as hotel roomies for away games. By the second road trip they can't hold back and get physical.
They encounter some pretty heavy obstacles as they start their journey together, which keeps you turning the pages intently. Main ones include a homophobic stepmom who stirs up plenty of angst, and a rematch with Jett's former Dallas team who still don't accept Jett's sexuality and want blood. But the bedroom scenes are really steamy in this one, and I loved all the cameos with the other members of "the squad" who all step in and help Mason & Jett overcome their roadblocks and bond as a couple. Ultimately Christie gives us the HEA we need after all the angst. And we get a hint that the next book in the series is about Ace - the ASU goalie and a fellow member of "the squad."
If you follow professional sports, there are a couple of things missing here. One is Mason having to successfully make the team in summer tryouts. He just magically becomes a starter as a rookie. And in Jett's coming out process and relationship status with Mason, the respective team's PR folks are non-existent. You know in real life they would have been heavily involved. But that's just me as a sports guy. The storyline is compelling and you really get emotionally involved with Mason & Jett from the first chapter. Can't wait to see what happens next in book 4 with Ace!
November 10, 2024
I received a free advance copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Mason is on a hook-up app on his phone looking forward to meeting a guy that night. His friend Archer (from installment 2) notices a hockey stick shaped birthmark on the dates stomach. Jett, who is deep in the closet, decides to cancel the hook-up because he recognizes the tattoo on the forearm as belonging to his new teammate, Mason. The latter gets angry on recognizing the birthmark on Jett and sets out to prove that Jett is gay. It turns out to be quite the challenge given how deep Jett is in the closet. Mason eventually breaks down Jett’s walls and Jett kisses him and admits he is gay. He had to leave the Dallas Stars because a teammate had caught him in a compromising position in the men’s room and he decided to make Jett’s life a living hell. The main reason that he stayed in the closet was because he didn’t know how his dad would react, especially given his stepmother’s ultraconservative religious views on homosexuality. Mason helps Jett get things into perspective, but it all culminates in a game against Dallas where Jett’s main tormentor starts a fight that sees Jett in hospital with a concussion and some broken ribs. His father and stepmother are coming back because of his injuries. Jett and Mason go through many difficulties on their way to a happy ending.
The plot for this book is quite straightforward, with few diversions along the way. It all centres around Jett’s difficulty in coming out as gay. He is well-supported by Mason who is in his rookie year in the NHL and is already totally out with the team. Mason’s efforts at trying to get Jett to admit he’s gay are quite funny. The scenes get very steamy and Jett’s reaction to them are realistic. The secondary characters are many (some we’ve seen in previous volumes) and with certain exceptions are supportive. The two exceptions are the Dallas homophobic player and Jett’s nasty stepmother, who are both truly evil. The book has a number of light moments but tells a very serious and important story.
Like the rest of the series, the book was great. It can be read as a standalone, but makes a bit more sense if read in order.
Mason is on a hook-up app on his phone looking forward to meeting a guy that night. His friend Archer (from installment 2) notices a hockey stick shaped birthmark on the dates stomach. Jett, who is deep in the closet, decides to cancel the hook-up because he recognizes the tattoo on the forearm as belonging to his new teammate, Mason. The latter gets angry on recognizing the birthmark on Jett and sets out to prove that Jett is gay. It turns out to be quite the challenge given how deep Jett is in the closet. Mason eventually breaks down Jett’s walls and Jett kisses him and admits he is gay. He had to leave the Dallas Stars because a teammate had caught him in a compromising position in the men’s room and he decided to make Jett’s life a living hell. The main reason that he stayed in the closet was because he didn’t know how his dad would react, especially given his stepmother’s ultraconservative religious views on homosexuality. Mason helps Jett get things into perspective, but it all culminates in a game against Dallas where Jett’s main tormentor starts a fight that sees Jett in hospital with a concussion and some broken ribs. His father and stepmother are coming back because of his injuries. Jett and Mason go through many difficulties on their way to a happy ending.
The plot for this book is quite straightforward, with few diversions along the way. It all centres around Jett’s difficulty in coming out as gay. He is well-supported by Mason who is in his rookie year in the NHL and is already totally out with the team. Mason’s efforts at trying to get Jett to admit he’s gay are quite funny. The scenes get very steamy and Jett’s reaction to them are realistic. The secondary characters are many (some we’ve seen in previous volumes) and with certain exceptions are supportive. The two exceptions are the Dallas homophobic player and Jett’s nasty stepmother, who are both truly evil. The book has a number of light moments but tells a very serious and important story.
Like the rest of the series, the book was great. It can be read as a standalone, but makes a bit more sense if read in order.
November 20, 2024
This is book 3 of the Desert Ice Hockey series. It can be read as a standalone but you will enjoy it more if you read the series in order. This is the story of Jett Jarvis and Mason Hopkins. We saw glimpses of Mason in the earlier books but he finally gets his own book. He has just made it to the professional hockey level. He is the poster child for loud and proud. He is also an upcoming superstar in the world of hockey. Jett has already been playing professional hockey when he is traded to Mason's team. He left under a cloud of suspicion and NDAs. His previous team made his life a living hell. He is taking no chances on that happening again. Mason immediately starts digging into Jett's life. He believes him to be gay and hounds Jett about it. Jett and Mason end up playing on the same line. So avoiding Mason is not possible. This is their story. I have to admit that I really disliked Mason in the beginning. The way he talked to Jett and hounded him about being gay. That rubbed me the wrong way. Mason is gay and proud of it but he has not qualms about trying to get someone to out themselves before they are ready. In my mind, it is hard no. But the story continues with Mason eventually breaking down the walls that Jett put up. When you learn about the way Jett's previous team treated him, it will break your heart. I wanted to destroy them in Jett's name. Also the way that he is afraid to explain circumstances to his dad because he is afraid of losing his only living parent. You will only wish the best of everything for Jett. And by the end of the book, Jett believes that to be Mason. I really liked how the friends all stood up for each other and were compassionate. The book is well written and easy to read. I really enjoyed it overall.
I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2024
Another great story from Christie Gordon. It's always a pleasure to read about her funny, sweet and sexy characters.
If you like your romances sporty and spicy with a bit of drama you'll love it. This new novel about Mason and Jett is about the acceptance of homosexuality in sport and family, and the power of friendship and support from the right people.
I loved the dynamic between Mason and Jett. Mason is stubborn and uses his charm to get Jett to reveal herself to him. I liked that Mason doesn't push him to come out or expose himself. Jett goes it alone and even surprises Mason by wanting to change “quickly”. Jett just needed to find someone to give him the strength to face his fears and old demons.
The writing is fluid and as pleasant to read as ever.
A book that puts a smile on your face and warms your heart.
I can't wait to read the next Desert Ice Hockey volumes.
——
Encore une belle histoire de la part de Christie Gordon. C’est toujours un plaisir de lire ses personnages drôles, attachants et sexy.
Si vous aimez les romances sportives et pimentées avec un peu de drama vous allez adorer. Ce nouveau roman autour de Mason et Jett parle de l’acceptation de l’homosexualité dans le sport et dans la famille et de la force de l’amitié et du soutien des bonnes personnes.
J’ai adoré la dynamique entre Mason et Jett. Mason est têtu et joue de son charme pour pousser Jett à se dévoiler à lui. J’ai apprécié, que Mason ne le pousse pas à faire son coming out où à s’exposer. Jett fait le chemin tout seul et surprend même Mason à vouloir changer « rapidement ». Jett avait juste besoin de trouver quelqu’un qui lui donne la force d’affronter ses peurs et ses anciens démons.
Une écriture fluide et toujours aussi agréable à lire.
Un livre qui donne le sourire et réchauffe le coeur.
J’ai hâte de lire les prochains tomes de Desert Ice Hockey.
If you like your romances sporty and spicy with a bit of drama you'll love it. This new novel about Mason and Jett is about the acceptance of homosexuality in sport and family, and the power of friendship and support from the right people.
I loved the dynamic between Mason and Jett. Mason is stubborn and uses his charm to get Jett to reveal herself to him. I liked that Mason doesn't push him to come out or expose himself. Jett goes it alone and even surprises Mason by wanting to change “quickly”. Jett just needed to find someone to give him the strength to face his fears and old demons.
The writing is fluid and as pleasant to read as ever.
A book that puts a smile on your face and warms your heart.
I can't wait to read the next Desert Ice Hockey volumes.
——
Encore une belle histoire de la part de Christie Gordon. C’est toujours un plaisir de lire ses personnages drôles, attachants et sexy.
Si vous aimez les romances sportives et pimentées avec un peu de drama vous allez adorer. Ce nouveau roman autour de Mason et Jett parle de l’acceptation de l’homosexualité dans le sport et dans la famille et de la force de l’amitié et du soutien des bonnes personnes.
J’ai adoré la dynamique entre Mason et Jett. Mason est têtu et joue de son charme pour pousser Jett à se dévoiler à lui. J’ai apprécié, que Mason ne le pousse pas à faire son coming out où à s’exposer. Jett fait le chemin tout seul et surprend même Mason à vouloir changer « rapidement ». Jett avait juste besoin de trouver quelqu’un qui lui donne la force d’affronter ses peurs et ses anciens démons.
Une écriture fluide et toujours aussi agréable à lire.
Un livre qui donne le sourire et réchauffe le coeur.
J’ai hâte de lire les prochains tomes de Desert Ice Hockey.
November 22, 2024
Annnd I finished another story written by Christie! I have to say, I love these series where there are so many cameos for previous books and even some crossovers from other series. It's like diving into this incredible universe that seems more real with each book.
Well, now let me tell you that it's another typical story by this author, totally within her style, where the characters have to face some difficulties, but they find great support in their friends and teammates. It also has that typical insta/love that characterizes her stories and enough steamy moments to entertain.
Only two things caught my attention, and it's not that they're negative per se, it's just that they didn't seem right to me? One is how fixed Mason was, how unrelenting in knowing if Jett was gay or not, despite Jett not wanting to confirm it. I understand that Mason was curious and very attracted to him and wanted to know in order to act on that attraction, but as queer people we know that if a person doesn't want to come out of the closet, it's something that should be respected, no matter what.
The other thing was what happens after the injury. A person with a concussion and a broken rib or two doesn't expose themselves to light or bright screens and definitely doesn't do strenuous activities just a couple of days after being hurt. It's not that the injured person doesn't want to, it's that they simply couldn't.
These two things caught my attention because this isn't the first book the author writes and she is usually sensitive and detailed in these things.
Anyway, I liked the story, for fans of this author I'm sure they will love it and like me, they will eagerly await the next one!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Well, now let me tell you that it's another typical story by this author, totally within her style, where the characters have to face some difficulties, but they find great support in their friends and teammates. It also has that typical insta/love that characterizes her stories and enough steamy moments to entertain.
Only two things caught my attention, and it's not that they're negative per se, it's just that they didn't seem right to me? One is how fixed Mason was, how unrelenting in knowing if Jett was gay or not, despite Jett not wanting to confirm it. I understand that Mason was curious and very attracted to him and wanted to know in order to act on that attraction, but as queer people we know that if a person doesn't want to come out of the closet, it's something that should be respected, no matter what.
The other thing was what happens after the injury. A person with a concussion and a broken rib or two doesn't expose themselves to light or bright screens and definitely doesn't do strenuous activities just a couple of days after being hurt. It's not that the injured person doesn't want to, it's that they simply couldn't.
These two things caught my attention because this isn't the first book the author writes and she is usually sensitive and detailed in these things.
Anyway, I liked the story, for fans of this author I'm sure they will love it and like me, they will eagerly await the next one!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
November 21, 2024
Mason has always been the loud one of The Squad and this is his story. Following him as he starts his first season in the NHL
From the first time Mason met Jett and saw a birthmark that looked very familiar, he was obsessed with Jett . Wanting to know if it was the same guy who stood him up, why he left his previous team. Mason was like a dog with a bone, chipping a way at the walls Jett has put up to protective himself, to the point Jett and others got annoyed with him.
I really enjoyed this story and yes whilst Mason was a touch annoying, his heart was in the right place. He was only wanted to support Jett. Learning the reason whilst Jett left his previous team and the reasons why he wouldn't come out . I really wanted to give Jett a big hug and offer him the motherly support he needed.
When Jett gave in to his attraction to Mason their relationship worked. Mason was there every step with Jett and when Jett met the rest of The Squad, he knew he was with friends and it was good for me to catch up with them all. Archer plays a bigger part then the rest in the story, well he would be as he is on the same team as Mason, but you do not need to have read Archer's story to enjoy this one. Although I would, as Archer is a sweetie, and a shout out to Iris, Jett's sister who was there all the way with Jett and his biggest supporter.
The story is evenly paced until it comes to a head on the ice and then it goes into overdrive and there was no way I was putting this book down until Mason and Jett had their HEA.
This is a great addition to this series and thanks to the epilogue I am really curious with Ace's story.
From the first time Mason met Jett and saw a birthmark that looked very familiar, he was obsessed with Jett . Wanting to know if it was the same guy who stood him up, why he left his previous team. Mason was like a dog with a bone, chipping a way at the walls Jett has put up to protective himself, to the point Jett and others got annoyed with him.
I really enjoyed this story and yes whilst Mason was a touch annoying, his heart was in the right place. He was only wanted to support Jett. Learning the reason whilst Jett left his previous team and the reasons why he wouldn't come out . I really wanted to give Jett a big hug and offer him the motherly support he needed.
When Jett gave in to his attraction to Mason their relationship worked. Mason was there every step with Jett and when Jett met the rest of The Squad, he knew he was with friends and it was good for me to catch up with them all. Archer plays a bigger part then the rest in the story, well he would be as he is on the same team as Mason, but you do not need to have read Archer's story to enjoy this one. Although I would, as Archer is a sweetie, and a shout out to Iris, Jett's sister who was there all the way with Jett and his biggest supporter.
The story is evenly paced until it comes to a head on the ice and then it goes into overdrive and there was no way I was putting this book down until Mason and Jett had their HEA.
This is a great addition to this series and thanks to the epilogue I am really curious with Ace's story.
November 27, 2024
Ice Rivals is the third book in the Desert Ice Hockey series by Christie Gordon. This series just keeps getting better and better with every book. Although this book is part of a series that follows a squad of ASU hockey players, this is a stand alone novel with some appearance from series regulars. In Ice Rivals we leave the ice of ASU as squad member Mason starts his career with the NHL on the Arizona Coyotes.
Mason is openly gay, proud, and unashamedly arrogant about his talent, swagger, and his looks. It actually makes him a little annoying but he can back it up. There are parts of the book where you want to tell him to settle down, but you realize it is part of his charm and he is really a nice guy.
When Mason and Archer start with the Coyotes a new trade from Dallas comes in, Jett. He is a successful, top player in the league who joins the team under a blanket of secrets and NDAs. Mason is immediately drawn to Jett and wants to know his story; even is Jett isn’t talking.
I didn’t really see this as an enemies to lovers trope because Mason and Jett were not enemies. There are real enemies in this novel and they are definitely not Mason. This is definitely a hurt/comfort and coming out story.
Christie Gordon writes characters so well. You feel like you are in the room with them when they are talking. This is a well-done story with amazing characters, a great plot, and a lot of fun too. I love that we get to visit with the guys from the squad again and I cannot wait until the next book.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
Mason is openly gay, proud, and unashamedly arrogant about his talent, swagger, and his looks. It actually makes him a little annoying but he can back it up. There are parts of the book where you want to tell him to settle down, but you realize it is part of his charm and he is really a nice guy.
When Mason and Archer start with the Coyotes a new trade from Dallas comes in, Jett. He is a successful, top player in the league who joins the team under a blanket of secrets and NDAs. Mason is immediately drawn to Jett and wants to know his story; even is Jett isn’t talking.
I didn’t really see this as an enemies to lovers trope because Mason and Jett were not enemies. There are real enemies in this novel and they are definitely not Mason. This is definitely a hurt/comfort and coming out story.
Christie Gordon writes characters so well. You feel like you are in the room with them when they are talking. This is a well-done story with amazing characters, a great plot, and a lot of fun too. I love that we get to visit with the guys from the squad again and I cannot wait until the next book.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
November 18, 2024
Ice Rivals is a hockey enemies-to-lovers-themed romance with just enough tension to add suspense to a seemingly straightforward plot, capturing the reader’s attention from the first to the last page. The smooth and effortless writing, vibrant narrative, and well-rounded, charming and relatable characters make it a fulfilling and captivating read.
The story follows two hockey players, Jett and Mason, on their path through challenges toward happiness and love. While Mason is an out-and-proud kind of guy, Jett is his opposite—deeply closeted and struggling with a dysfunctional, complicated relationship with his stepmother. He fears he might lose his family and career if he steps out of the shadows.
Despite their initial animosity, the attraction is instantaneous and quickly blossoms into a deep love. Adding more context to Jett’s family dynamics could deepen readers’ understanding of his fears and reservations. Still, vivid insights into the world of hockey, a heartwarming and supportive group of friends, and the passionate love story all contribute significantly to the book’s overall page-turning appeal.
This is a charming, exciting, and absorbing read that does not delve into dark, emotionally overwhelming issues, action, violent themes, or overly complex characters. Fans of sports romances with a touch of suspense, emotion, and passion will enjoy this well-written book.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
The story follows two hockey players, Jett and Mason, on their path through challenges toward happiness and love. While Mason is an out-and-proud kind of guy, Jett is his opposite—deeply closeted and struggling with a dysfunctional, complicated relationship with his stepmother. He fears he might lose his family and career if he steps out of the shadows.
Despite their initial animosity, the attraction is instantaneous and quickly blossoms into a deep love. Adding more context to Jett’s family dynamics could deepen readers’ understanding of his fears and reservations. Still, vivid insights into the world of hockey, a heartwarming and supportive group of friends, and the passionate love story all contribute significantly to the book’s overall page-turning appeal.
This is a charming, exciting, and absorbing read that does not delve into dark, emotionally overwhelming issues, action, violent themes, or overly complex characters. Fans of sports romances with a touch of suspense, emotion, and passion will enjoy this well-written book.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 21, 2024
This is the story of out and proud Mason and closeted Jett and their hate to love developing relationship. Jett is a newly traded player and Mason is a player new to the NHL on the Coyotes NHL hockey team in Arizona. Their beginning doesn't start out well, but things improve despite the challenges of being on the same team and same line as they fight, then try to navigate an inevitable attraction to each other. Jett is gay but closeted partly for fear of losing any relationship with his dad, but also after extreme bullying by his former team. He staunchly denies being gay for fear of also being bullied by this team, even though there are two out gay players on the team already.
With love, help and support from Mason, Jett works his way through being true to himself by coming out to his father and his team after a game injury, finding new found families, acceptance, and his true love.
The developing relationship between Mason and Jett feels realistic, the issue of the challenges faced by gay athletes and the gaining of acceptance by teammates and the leagues themselves highlights issues still being faced in today's climate, and the support becoming more prevalent for inclusion is highlighted. A great addition to the series following players from the "squad", a group of gay hockey players at ASU as they play there, then move on to teams in the NHL.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
With love, help and support from Mason, Jett works his way through being true to himself by coming out to his father and his team after a game injury, finding new found families, acceptance, and his true love.
The developing relationship between Mason and Jett feels realistic, the issue of the challenges faced by gay athletes and the gaining of acceptance by teammates and the leagues themselves highlights issues still being faced in today's climate, and the support becoming more prevalent for inclusion is highlighted. A great addition to the series following players from the "squad", a group of gay hockey players at ASU as they play there, then move on to teams in the NHL.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
November 13, 2024
If you’re searching for an engaging read that combines the thrill of ice hockey with heartfelt emotions, then Christie Gordon’s latest installment in the Desert Ice Hockey series, Ice Rivals is the book. This book revolves around Mason, a rookie player carving his path in the NHL after being part of the beloved “squad” of queer hockey players in earlier books.
In Ice Rivals, we meet Jett—an NHL player who has just been traded to Mason’s team. He wrestles with a lot of internal conflicts, mainly his struggles with homophobia from his former teammates and the looming fear of losing his family. This captivating narrative pulls you in, showcasing Jett’s journey as he battles societal expectations and discovers love with Mason, whose gaydar sets the tone for an exciting adventure.
Christie Gordon excels at creating compelling characters that resonate with readers. The chemistry between Mason and Jett is palpable, filled with tension and plenty of heat both on and off the ice. As you follow their emotional roller-coaster, you can count on a satisfying conclusion—an uplifting happy-ever-after that Gordon masterfully crafts. I found myself attached to both characters and their unique challenges, making Ice Rivals my favorite installment in the series so far. Don’t miss out on this thrilling book!
In Ice Rivals, we meet Jett—an NHL player who has just been traded to Mason’s team. He wrestles with a lot of internal conflicts, mainly his struggles with homophobia from his former teammates and the looming fear of losing his family. This captivating narrative pulls you in, showcasing Jett’s journey as he battles societal expectations and discovers love with Mason, whose gaydar sets the tone for an exciting adventure.
Christie Gordon excels at creating compelling characters that resonate with readers. The chemistry between Mason and Jett is palpable, filled with tension and plenty of heat both on and off the ice. As you follow their emotional roller-coaster, you can count on a satisfying conclusion—an uplifting happy-ever-after that Gordon masterfully crafts. I found myself attached to both characters and their unique challenges, making Ice Rivals my favorite installment in the series so far. Don’t miss out on this thrilling book!
November 7, 2025
3.5 stars
So, first there was the Mesa Boys series, then there was the Rock U series, and now we have the Desert Ice Hockey series. We're getting a decent book universe here apparently although there's not as many cameos from previous series as there are in some other book universes I've read. This third book had a pretty good plot featuring Mason and Jett. When they first meet, Jett is in the closet partly because he was bullied by his former team when they accidentally discovered his sexuality. Eventually, Mason is enough of a pest that Jett does admit to him that he's gay, and they start a relationship and keep it under wraps until they are forced out of the closet due to homophobia from Jett's former team. Unsurprisingly, since the author tends to focus on positive endings for most things, everything goes well with their coming out, and the only "negative" thing that happens as a result is that Jett's dad is divorcing his wife (Jett's stepmom) who is extremely homophobic. Anyhow, I didn't have any major complaints with this book, as it was a fairly typical sports romance overall, and the only minor complaint I have is that there was some repetitive conversations. I'm having fun reading this series.
So, first there was the Mesa Boys series, then there was the Rock U series, and now we have the Desert Ice Hockey series. We're getting a decent book universe here apparently although there's not as many cameos from previous series as there are in some other book universes I've read. This third book had a pretty good plot featuring Mason and Jett. When they first meet, Jett is in the closet partly because he was bullied by his former team when they accidentally discovered his sexuality. Eventually, Mason is enough of a pest that Jett does admit to him that he's gay, and they start a relationship and keep it under wraps until they are forced out of the closet due to homophobia from Jett's former team. Unsurprisingly, since the author tends to focus on positive endings for most things, everything goes well with their coming out, and the only "negative" thing that happens as a result is that Jett's dad is divorcing his wife (Jett's stepmom) who is extremely homophobic. Anyhow, I didn't have any major complaints with this book, as it was a fairly typical sports romance overall, and the only minor complaint I have is that there was some repetitive conversations. I'm having fun reading this series.
July 1, 2025
Great addition to the series! (an audio review)
I’m enjoying Christie’s Desert Ice Hockey series and this third book delivered all the feels.
Mason is out and in the NHL. He’s proud of who he is, and certainly hopes more players will have the courage to follow in his footsteps.
Enter Jett Jarvis. Jett left his previous team under questionable circumstances and, from the beginning, he’s a bit of a jerk. Only he’s hiding a secret – he’s worried about how his father will react if he comes out. He’s worried about the fans. He’s mired in self-doubt.
Slowly, though, Jett warms to Mason. They’re thrown together continuously and all those close quarters enable Jett to be himself. Only, when the time comes, will he have the courage?
Mason, for his part, is patient. He’s not going to thrust Jett out of the closet. But he’s also being authentic to who he is. Those two realities collide on the ice and it turns calamitous for everyone.
I loved this story. Classic Christie angst in all the right ways. Finnley Cole is a fantastic narrator and I adore him. These two make a great team and I’m thrilled to know there are more books to come!
I’m enjoying Christie’s Desert Ice Hockey series and this third book delivered all the feels.
Mason is out and in the NHL. He’s proud of who he is, and certainly hopes more players will have the courage to follow in his footsteps.
Enter Jett Jarvis. Jett left his previous team under questionable circumstances and, from the beginning, he’s a bit of a jerk. Only he’s hiding a secret – he’s worried about how his father will react if he comes out. He’s worried about the fans. He’s mired in self-doubt.
Slowly, though, Jett warms to Mason. They’re thrown together continuously and all those close quarters enable Jett to be himself. Only, when the time comes, will he have the courage?
Mason, for his part, is patient. He’s not going to thrust Jett out of the closet. But he’s also being authentic to who he is. Those two realities collide on the ice and it turns calamitous for everyone.
I loved this story. Classic Christie angst in all the right ways. Finnley Cole is a fantastic narrator and I adore him. These two make a great team and I’m thrilled to know there are more books to come!
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July 14, 2025I don't really like to leave low ratings (ETA -- I just dnf-ed it), but sometimes when aspects of the book really annoy me, I do it anyway. This is obviously one of those times. Mason's a huge a-hole. He's rude, he's inconsiderate, he's pushy, he's arrogant -- you get the idea. I don't like him, and having him tell 1/2 the story just doesn't work for me. Honestly, if I'd been in Jett's shoes, I would've filed a harassment claim. He asked Mason to back off numerous times, and Mason just kept pushing.
I essentially lost all sympathy for Mason, and I didn't even want Jett to give in to him. :(
And then, when , Mason's personality completely flipped, and it was like a whole new character appeared. Ugh. I can't stand when authors do that. I have to say, that's NOT character growth! That's changing them mid-stream into someone else (someone, in this case, who's actually sympathetic). I felt like Gordon realized that Mason was just horrible, and instead of going back and rewriting him into a decent human being from the get go, she just changed him.
So yeah, this isn't for me.
I essentially lost all sympathy for Mason, and I didn't even want Jett to give in to him. :(
And then, when , Mason's personality completely flipped, and it was like a whole new character appeared. Ugh. I can't stand when authors do that. I have to say, that's NOT character growth! That's changing them mid-stream into someone else (someone, in this case, who's actually sympathetic). I felt like Gordon realized that Mason was just horrible, and instead of going back and rewriting him into a decent human being from the get go, she just changed him.
So yeah, this isn't for me.
November 19, 2024
Mason has the characteristics of a strong, confident person. Where Jett should be strong and confident, but his secret is holding him back. Both NHL players are good at what they do in the rink, but outside of the rink, it is about holding on to what they know.
Jett is in the closet, but when he is caught but a former teammate in a compromising position, he is bullied and eventually had to leave the team he once loved. When he becomes teammates with Mason, Mason had him figured out, but Jett wasn't going to let him know that.
Jett's family life is complicated to the point that he fears losing the one person he really wants in his life: His father. With the support of his sister and Mason, will he be strong enough to face the downfall of opening himself up to his father?
Christie Gordon's writing has a wit to it that keeps you giggling, but when push comes to shove, she also has a way of pulling at your heartstrings too. This book is just another great addition to her newest series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Jett is in the closet, but when he is caught but a former teammate in a compromising position, he is bullied and eventually had to leave the team he once loved. When he becomes teammates with Mason, Mason had him figured out, but Jett wasn't going to let him know that.
Jett's family life is complicated to the point that he fears losing the one person he really wants in his life: His father. With the support of his sister and Mason, will he be strong enough to face the downfall of opening himself up to his father?
Christie Gordon's writing has a wit to it that keeps you giggling, but when push comes to shove, she also has a way of pulling at your heartstrings too. This book is just another great addition to her newest series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 19, 2024
Hockey playboy makes good in this third book of the series. This time we've got Mason, the hook up king of the Coyotes NHL team. He's always on the make and always out of a good time with no strings. But when he's stood up by his latest app date and connects that profile with his newest team mate the game is afoot. Mason is hell bent on making Jett admit that he was the one on the app and that he is in fact gay. Jett is nursing some pretty serious emotional wounds from the mistreatment by his last team because of his sexuality. And he's sure he will lose his Dad once the truth of it is revealed. What neither man expects to the way the whole heartedly fall in love with each other. I'm always a sucker for a hurt/comfort story and this delivers. The two MCs are very sweet together but that doesn't take anything away from the spice level. And, of course, hockey. I like the interconnected universe of these books and the others Gordon has written based in Tempe. It's fun to see characters cross over and to see how they're all related. A really fun read.
November 20, 2024
She’s done it again! The author has written another sweet, steamy, heart touching read in the Desert Ice series with Jett and Mason, new teammates on the NHL Coyotes hockey team.
After an aborted hookup Mason is certain the guy who dumped him is Jett, one of his new teammates, who denies it (he’s straight, thanks for asking). Mason, who’s out and proud, is determined to make him admit that it was him on the hookup app which caused a bit of drama and Jett no end of stress.
Ok, so maybe Jett IS gay but he has his reasons for not coming out, not the least of which is his family. As they got to know each other though and drew closer, it was beautiful how quickly animosity turned to love. Heck, by the time it was over, *I* was in love with ‘em!!
I’m absolutely loving this series. I’d never thought twice about hockey before but then after reading my first hockey romance, I was HOOKED and this book as well as the others in this series, is a big part of the reason why: they’re seriously steamy, practically DRIP hurt/comfort and have the dreamiest MCs…what more could you need? 5 Stars!!
After an aborted hookup Mason is certain the guy who dumped him is Jett, one of his new teammates, who denies it (he’s straight, thanks for asking). Mason, who’s out and proud, is determined to make him admit that it was him on the hookup app which caused a bit of drama and Jett no end of stress.
Ok, so maybe Jett IS gay but he has his reasons for not coming out, not the least of which is his family. As they got to know each other though and drew closer, it was beautiful how quickly animosity turned to love. Heck, by the time it was over, *I* was in love with ‘em!!
I’m absolutely loving this series. I’d never thought twice about hockey before but then after reading my first hockey romance, I was HOOKED and this book as well as the others in this series, is a big part of the reason why: they’re seriously steamy, practically DRIP hurt/comfort and have the dreamiest MCs…what more could you need? 5 Stars!!
November 11, 2024
"Ice rivals" is the third book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. There are cameos from the previous books but all you need to know is explained. In this story we follow Jett and Mason. They are both professional hockey players, Mason is just starting and Jett in a tradded from another team. In the beginning of the book there is a lot of tension between them mostly because they are attracted to each other but Mason is out and Jett isn't. I really felt for Jett. He was in a difficult situation.
I really liked reading all the conversations about being a LGBTQ person and playing sports. It was interesting.
I also loved how Mason's friends embraced and supported Jett.
It was a great addition to the series and I would definitely recommend it, especially if you enjoy hockey romance books.
Jett an Mason had explosive chemistry and the pacing was fantastic, I finished it in a day.
I really liked reading all the conversations about being a LGBTQ person and playing sports. It was interesting.
I also loved how Mason's friends embraced and supported Jett.
It was a great addition to the series and I would definitely recommend it, especially if you enjoy hockey romance books.
Jett an Mason had explosive chemistry and the pacing was fantastic, I finished it in a day.
November 12, 2024
This was a fantastic story!
Sadly homophobia is still very prevalent in the world. People can be nasty and evil about two men or two women loving each other.
Thankfully there are amazing authors like this one who give us beautifully written, same sex love stories.
Mason and Jett's story has many aspects to it. The rivalry, the attraction, denial, flirtation and finally admitting the attraction. Followed quickly by feelings growing stronger until they can't deny or even want to, how they feel. I don't like giving the big plot twist away so I'll say this, there were a few people we meet in this story who I would never want to meet in real life for fear I'd end up in trouble.
There are also many other in this book I'd love to meet in real life who I am positive I'd be best friends with.
I love visiting with the boys from the previous books and seeing how their lives are since their story came out.
I am looking forward to the next book too!
5/5 hockey sticks!
Sadly homophobia is still very prevalent in the world. People can be nasty and evil about two men or two women loving each other.
Thankfully there are amazing authors like this one who give us beautifully written, same sex love stories.
Mason and Jett's story has many aspects to it. The rivalry, the attraction, denial, flirtation and finally admitting the attraction. Followed quickly by feelings growing stronger until they can't deny or even want to, how they feel. I don't like giving the big plot twist away so I'll say this, there were a few people we meet in this story who I would never want to meet in real life for fear I'd end up in trouble.
There are also many other in this book I'd love to meet in real life who I am positive I'd be best friends with.
I love visiting with the boys from the previous books and seeing how their lives are since their story came out.
I am looking forward to the next book too!
5/5 hockey sticks!
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