Spinning to the Goal

Desert Ice Hockey #4

by Christie Gordon

As a hockey goalie, I don’t back down. When I meet my match in a figure skater, will my relentless pursuit win his heart?
Ace
Being in a dry spell sucks. Not my hockey game, my love life.
My friends decide it’s time to fix it. So they drag me out, dressed to impress.
Then I see him—exactly my type, all smoldering eyes and a slender body that’s got me forgetting how to breathe.
When our hookup leads to a connection, he gives me his number and I can't believe my luck.
Then... he ghosts me. Out of nowhere. Why?

Zoma
All I wanted was a quick hookup to take the edge off. No complications, no strings.
In walks this guy. He’s massive and sweet. Plus, he’s got a way of making me feel safe. I think he could be more.
Then I find out he’s a goalie.
I’ve been down this road before, and still bear the scars. The last time I fell for a hockey player, I gave him everything and he left me shattered.
No, I’ll focus on my figure skating competitions and the kids I train. It’s easier.
But Ace keeps showing up, all broad shoulders and an infuriatingly irresistible, aw-shucks smile.
How am I supposed to guard my heart when he refuses to give up on me?

Spinning to the Goal is the fourth book in the college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a figure skater burned by love and a goalie with a cowboy background, size difference, opposites attract and found family. 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!

Genres: Hockey, M M Romance, Sports Romance, Sports, Audiobook, Contemporary, Ebooks

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 28, 2025

About the author

Christie 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
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Reviews

[Jane aka Coughy019 (Safety info included) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tropes: opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, hockey player / figure skater, size difference, miscommunication
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: some toys
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: slightly unsupportive parents, cheating ex
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No (though Zoma had a cheating ex he broke up with a year ago)
Other person drama: Zoma and Ace had a one-night stand, but Zoma ghosted Ace. Next weekend, Ace kissed a guy in front of Zoma to try to make him jealous, but that was all that happened. Zoma's ex shows up at one point and Ace gets a little jealous.

3.25 stars

Zoma is 24. He didn't quite make it to the Olympics for figure skating the way that he wanted to. He's now working on post graduate studies while coaching figure skating. A year ago, he broke up with his boyfriend Brody who cheated on him repeatedly. Brody is a hockey player and is now in the NHL.

Ace is 23. He's in his last year of college and he is a goalie trying to find an NHL team. He's a sweet guy, a golden retriever who was raised on a ranch and is close to his family. Though his parents struggled a bit with getting used to his sexuality, he surprised them by being gay. He's really into Zoma when he meets him. He has two teams that he's interested in, the Red Wings who will pay him more and play him more and the Coyotes who will pay him less and play him less. He wants to go with the Coyotes, because they are closer, his friends play on that team, he'd be near Zoma, and he thinks he can prove himself and earn being played more.

The conflict is that Zoma and Ace don't communicate well at first early on in their relationship, and Ace doesn't know if they are serious enough for him to plan his future around. Ace has strong feelings, but he knows Zoma is relationship shy.

This book was pleasant enough. They were nice guys and they treated each other pretty well. There were nice relationships with their friends. It was nice that they considered each other in their life decisions and it was nice that the epilogue was 10 months in the future so you see them settle a little bit.

Some things I didn't like though:

- I think they were a little backwards about safe sex. They had bareback sex so early (their second hook up), and then a couple days later Ace is angsting over whether to talk to Zoma about being exclusive? I know they're on PrEP but there are other STIs that that doesn't protect them from. It seemed so silly to bareback without a second thought and then proceed to spend so much mental energy on the idea of exclusivity and trust.

- I think the author went a little too far with Nova and her sexual liberation. I like sexual liberation and all, completely happy to see a woman living her best life, I am so sick of cobwebs. But it was a real foul move of her to call a guy she met at the bar (and then proceeded to date for a while), dick she found. Saying this to a person is objectification and offensive. I don't like it when I hear guys saying I found myself some pussy, so I don't like it when I hear a woman saying I found myself some dick (especially to his face).

- Zoma and Ace were a little juvenile. At times they seem like they were more in high school. They just talked really simplistically, their dates were a little cheesy. Zoma trying to attend or watch all of Ace's games was just giving juvenile vibes. They seem to fall for each other so quickly yet they didn't know each other well. I felt like I was being told that they cared about each other more than I was being showed that they cared. Also I'm not a fan of the miscommunication trope. And they suffered from that until at least 217 pages in. A strong couple has to be able to communicate. Them dancing around each other is juvenile and not a sign of strength of the relationship.


Some notable moments:

"My gut knotted. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I mean, I’ve dated guys, but I’ve never felt so…” Hell, how to describe it? “Like I wanted to kill anyone who even looked at them.” “You want to kill for me?” He chuckled. “Ace, that’s so…” His gaze dipped to my mouth and came back up. “Romantic and sexy in a way. Also, a little disturbing.”"

"I blew out a breath and combed my fingers through my hair. “I tried to break up with Ace. I came to his house with all his shit in a garbage bag but⁠—” “Goddammit, Zoma. Where are you now? At home?” She scoffed. “No, I’m at Ace’s. He’s making me breakfast.” As my chest warmed, I grinned. “He wouldn’t let me break up with him. He threw me over his shoulder, brought me into his room, and tossed me on his bed. Then he told me he loved me.”"


*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.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

I really like this series the guys are all great. Low angst but a talk wouldn't hurt..sexy and fun love the stories.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zoma is learning to be a figure skating coach and meets Ace, a hockey goalie, but Zoma's ex was a cheating hockey player and he's afraid of getting hurt. Ace really likes him and wants to have more with him. This is a sweet book with Ace putting his heart out there and putting it all into their relationship to make it work. Zoma has to trust again. An enjoyable part of a series. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.

[꧁•Zakiyya•꧂ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Haven’t read the stories that came before this one, but the blurb here caught my attention.

I liked Ace and Zoma; well I liked Ace a whole lot more than Zoma, but they were really hot together.

Not sure how believable it is that a player of Ace's calibre and age would choose NOT to follow the money and play for a top team but rather stay cos he wants to be with his friends and boyfriend ...🤷🏻‍♀️ That part just didn't quite work for me... 😬🫣 But, I guess that was what made HIM happy...🤦🏻‍♀️

[Claire Louisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐⭐⭐⭐💫

I really enjoyed Ace and Zoma's romance, they were both such likeable characters that I couldn't help but root for them even when they made silly decisions. I enjoyed catching up with the guys from Desert Ice Hockey and enjoyed how close their friendships are and how they always have each other's backs. I think Zoma and Ace are my new favourites from this series.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got an Arc to read Spinning to the goal. This is the fourth book in the series. Although I have not read the first three books in the series i will now. This book was so full of real conflicts for couples. Zoma has issues with being left previously by a hockey player and does not want this to be like the last relationship. While Ace has his career in hockey to think about. It was a great read and fun to go along for the journey. I definitely would recommend readings this!

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve said many times that this guy or that guy or THIS couple was the sweetest—and I’d mean it—but then I’d read another one and suddenly THEY were the best/sweetest, well, here we go again because…OMG, Ace is the SWEETEST thing!!!

Ace is the goalie for ASU. By all accounts he’s a BIG guy but off the ice, he’s a pussy cat; sweet, sensitive, kind and caring and an absolute pushover when it comes to those he cares about. One night was all it took for him to begin to develop feelings for Zoma, a figure skater working on his master’s degree in physical education, hoping to coach the next generation of Olympic hopefuls.

Their relationship was a little strained, even from the beginning, mostly due to Zoma’s past experience with another hockey player but Ace had such a tender heart and cared for Zoma so deeply that he was quick to forgive, no matter what happened.

I have to admit, I was a little put out with Zoma for a while in the beginning. Ace wore his heart for him on his sleeve but Zoma seemed determined to keep him at arms length and I wanted so much more for Ace than that but it was his gentleness and patience that wore down Zoma’s defenses and gave me the HEA I’d been waiting for.

Not only was the overall main storyline perfect but it was awesome seeing other members of the Squad hanging out with our guys and we also got a little cameo from Axel and the guys of Knot Me as they performed a concert in one of the casinos. Of course, now I’m craving a reread of Axel and Remy’s book, my favorite couple from the band.

I SO enjoyed reading Ace’s book! He was the sweetest thing and worthy of all the good things he won just by being his own sweet self. So, whether you’ve already read the other books in the Desert Ice Hockey series or this is your first, each book can be read as a standalone, I just recommend you actually start reading them. I promise, you’ll enjoy reading each one but none more so than Ace and Zoma’s book. For me, this was a 5 star read. I hope you’ll give it a try for yourself though, it’s sure to please.

I received a copy of this book for free but this is my honest opinion.

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spinning to the Goal is the 4th book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. I feel this series is best to read in order to get the most out of the story so why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Ace the goalie and Zoma a figure skater. Both of the guys are sweet and so likable. I loved watching them become a couple. I loved the steam and chemistry between these two. Christie Gordon has brought us another wonderful story in the series and I can't wait for the next one. 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.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s another year at ASU and the Squad is down by three members, all moved on to the NHL — Mason and Archer are with the Coyotes and Jonah is with the Maple Leafs. Ace is in his senior year along with Tyler and Myles, the remaining members of the Squad, a group of queer hockey players on the ASU hockey team. After seeing his best friends with significant others and on NHL teams, Ace sees all the things he wants in his future. When Ace meets Zoma at a gay bar one evening, he feels an instant attraction and connection to the young man. The two really click with a hotness scale of 1000, and Ace has high hopes to see the young man again soon, only to be ghosted. Not sure what he could have done wrong, Ace finally puts Zoma out of his mind, only to run into him in a situation where he can finally find out what happened. Turns out Zoma had his heart broken by a hockey player a year ago, and he panicked when learning Ace was a hockey player, too. Determined to prove he is nothing like Zoma’s ex, Ace sets out to woo him. The terrific chemistry between them, the quality time they spend together, and the way Ace makes Zoma feel protected and safe goes a long way to furthering the relationship. You can feel the chemistry through the pages, and the way Ace claims Zoma and carries him around is so sweet. Ace is totally invested in Zoma, and Zoma is coming around, feeling more secure that Ace won’t leave him when he gets a contract offer, and things go well until they don’t. Future contract offers and team locations cause anxiety for both, putting the relationship in jeopardy. Will they be able to find a way forward that will allow their relationship to continue, or will Zoma’s fears come true? But, since this is a romance, we know they will work it out somehow. Ace will get his man, but will he get his dream team, too, and keep the Squad members together? Gotta read to find how it all shakes out.

I loved Ace’s character, he is such a sweetheart, a teddy bear at times and a grizzly at others, investing his all in this relationship to win Zoma’s heart. He is thoughtful, caring, sometimes jealous and very protective of his man, but also understanding of Zoma’s fears and doing his best to try to keep the stresses in his situation from Zoma, afraid he will leave. Zoma’s fears are understandable, and past events and the uncertainties that play into the possibility of the relationship lasting are valid concerns. Learning to trust is key for both.

Some of my favorite parts were the times Ace introduces Zoma to his friends, and the Halloween costume adventure. Ace loves to carry Zoma around, and it makes for some fun mind pictures as the events unfold. The two are just so perfect together, and the pictures in my mind were so vivid in these sections. The chemistry between them and the spicy times are so hot, at times it could burn the page, while at others, there is a gentleness and perfection about their times together to give a totally different vibe. These guys definitely were meant to end up together.

Lots of hockey talk, more background on what goes on inside offers and contracts, catching up with former MCs from the previous books, lots of fun banter, and a real sense of found family, along with one quirky best friend in a gal named Nova, make for an entertaining and engaging read. Looking forward to Tyler’s story next.

[Jim Freihofer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Christie's 4th installment in the Desert Ice Hockey series. In order to get the full effect, you need to have read the earlier books first. The MC's in this one are Ace, the loveable goalie for ASU and Zoma, the local figure skater. Zoma is out at the gay bar with his bi girlfriend Nova. In walks Ace with his two roomies from the hockey house, Tyler & Myles. Ace has been on a dry spell so the guys have dressed him up and dragged him out for a night to see if Ace can get lucky. Sure enough their eyes meet, they connect over some drinks, and then head to the men's room stall for a quickie. This all happens in Chapter 1, which is kind of amazing. Usually Christie holds off on the heat till later, but these guys get bangin' right away!

Zoma ends up ghosting Ace when he finds out Ace is a hockey player. Zoma's had a bad experience with a hockey guy romance in the past so he's not looking to repeat that again. After a few weeks their paths cross at the ice arena and Ace makes his pitch to keep things going. Zoma agrees to have a coffee date and they sort things. From there Christie takes us on an evolving romance between these dudes. The conflict they have to overcome involves their careers - Zoma is just getting his figure skating coaching established in Phoenix while he's in the MBA program at ASU. Ace is having a superior senior hockey season and is getting courted by the Detroit Red Wings. Zoma is conflicted about getting jilted again by another hockey player while Ace really wants to stay in Phoenix to play in the NHL with his ASU buddies Mason & Archer, not move to Detroit. So there's lots to work through and the guys meet the challenges head-on which will keep you turning the pages. Eventually things get sorted and we get our HEA and a nice Epilogue reunion with The Squad.

I really liked this book. The issues these guys have to overcome and the conflicts that arise are very real and believable. I especially liked when the guys spent Thanksgiving with Zoma's family in Colorado and Christmas with Ace's family in Montana. I did have a couple of nit-picky issues: 1) The Coyotes have moved from Phoenix to Utah and it's been long enough now that Christie has to work this into the series, and 2) Zoma's best girl buddy needs another name besides Nova. Both names end in "a" and both have unusual letters "Z" and "V" and as I was reading along I kept getting them confused.

Looks like Tyler is up next so looking forward to his story. Four stars for Ace & Zoma!

[Bill Bottomley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I receive a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.

Ace is the starting goaltender for Arizona State University in Tempe and lives with his queer teammates in the hockey house. One night when he and his friends go out to a local gay bar, he meets Zoma who is out looking for a good time. He’s with his bi friend, Nova. They have some action in the washroom, but Zoma finds out that Ace is a hockey player, and he takes off because his heart was previously broken by a hockey player who just dumped him when he got a contract with Buffalo. Thus, he ghosts Ace until the latter shows up in the rink where he coaches kids in figure skating. Zoma agrees to go for coffee with Ace where he explains the reason he ghosted him. They agree to go on a date, with one thing leading to another until Zoma learns that Ace was being courted by the Detroit Red Wings, and he just sees a repeat of what happened with his ex. They work through their problems on their way to a happy ending.

The book is well-written with the plot going along in a straight fashion (pun intended) with few side trips. The two main characters are totally into each other and certainly engage in steamy activities on many occasions. Both of them go through some type of difficulty: for Zoma it’s the trauma with which his ex left him and Ace’s failure to keep him in the loop, and for Ace it’s his desire to play for the Coyotes that may not come to pass. They eventually overcome the problems through the power of their characters. The secondary characters, many of whom we’ve met before, contribute comic relief and to plot development in the advice they give. I’ve read and reviewed the entire series so far and I’ve found the same high quality in all of them.

I’m pleased to recommend this book to all lovers of MM romance.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ace has watched so many of his closest friends achieve their hockey dreams and find the person they are meant to be with. And he can’t help but hope the same will happen to him. He is praying that the Coyotes will sign him as their goalie so he cannot only remain in town but play with two of his best friends. But until the, he’ll keep playing his heart out. He just never expects that his heart will find the one he has been waiting for. When he meets Zoma at a club, it’s like everything clicks. Their chemistry is undeniable. And Ace knows Zoma feels it too. Yet at the end of the night and even after they exchanged numbers, he can’t help but feel like something happened. Especially with Zoma ghosts him. Zoma has one rule. No hockey players. Not after his ex smashed his heart. So of course it is his luck that when he meets the most perfect guy he has ever met, at the end of the night he learns he is a hockey player. Nope. Not happening… right? He tries to stay away. Even when his best friend tells him he is crazy. But fate has other ideas when they cross paths again. And this time, Ace isn’t letting Zoma go without a fight. As the two navigate a new relationship, Ace will have to figure out his hockey future and Zoma will have to decide if he can take a chance on another hockey player. Ace and Zoma were such a great couple! Loved their chemistry. And I loved how Ace wasn’t going to let his dream guy go. He really fought for Zoma. And Zoma wasn’t so closed off as he thought he would be. A fun story all around and I am looking forward to the next one!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ace is the primary goalie for ASU's hockey team with excellent NHL prospects. Zoma is a dedicated ice skater and teacher earning his Master's in PhysEd with a goal of training future Olympians. They're attracted to each other and plan to extend their nightclub hook-up to see where it goes. It gets derailed when Zoma finds out Ace is a hockey player. A bad breakup with his former boyfriend, a cheater and a hockey player, left Zoma leery about giving his heart away again. Especially to another hockey player.
Zoma is determined to keep their relationship on the lighter side. But the two are compatible inside and out of the bedroom and he finds he's falling for Ace. Ace is already making future plans for the two of them, he wants it in Arizona playing for the Coyotes. But it's Detroit's Redwings who are offering him a job. Lots of angst. Lots of learning to trust. Neither Ace nor Zoma are great communicators, and Ace nearly sinks the relationship by not telling Zoma about the Redwing's offer.
There's plenty of steamy spice. The two mains are adorable. Zoma's bestie, Nova, and hockey playing roommates Tyler and Miles are supportive. Of course, they keep telling the pair to communicate. But where would the story be if they actually listened.
It was a fun read. A clueless, jerk of an ex. A bit of contract tension as Ace tries to hold onto his dream. And make his boyfriend happy.
The best of the Desert Ice Hockey stories. A quick drop in from the Rock U boys. Tyler's story is next. Then, I guess, Miles. Will Miles' story end with an NFL draft? I wonder.
I received an advanced copy from the author and this is my review.

[Michelle N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spinning to the Goal is the fourth book in the Desert Ice Hockey series by Christie Gordon. We are back with the squad and now it is goalie Ace’s turn to find love. Ace has a big presence and personality that fits his six-foot four goalie sized frame. He loves his friends, his family, and playing hockey. He is dealing with a dry spell when he goes out with the remaining members of the squad, Myles and Tyler. His dry spell is drowned out when he meets Zoma. Zoma is a lithe, small, figure skater who is a graduate student at the college. Despite sparks flying, and a great night together, Zoma ends up ghosting Ace.
Through a series of interesting coincidences Ace and Zoma’s paths continue to cross. Zoma decides to risk getting another broken heart and starts dating Ace. The chemistry between Zoma and Ace is off the charts and the development of their relationship is a fantastic read. Ace is falling head over heels for Zoma, while dealing with the pressures of possible NHL contracts. Zoma is scared to death of being in a relationship again after having a bad break up. In the end, it does not matter what challenges they face, they face them together because they are meant to be together.
Christie Gordon writes found families and friendships so well. We not only get a great story with Ace and Zoma but we also spend time with Zoma’s best friend Nova, and all the guys on the squad. All of these characters add so much fun and personality to the book.
I have enjoyed every book in the Desert Ice Hockey Series. Spinning to the Goal, is fantastic opposites attract, high-heat, story.
I received an advanced reader copy for my honest review.

[Alix · Rating 4 out of 5]

4+ This is my first read by this author and it was great! I got along just fine not having read the first 3 books, since they follow players who have graduated, but I'm definitely going back to the beginning of the series! I know I'll appreciate all the awesome cameos even more.

This is the story of goalie Ace and former ice skater/future coach Zoma and it's hookups to more. This book started off on a strong note and kept up with a great pace. Ace and Zoma had a hot and heavy meet-cute and even met the friend group, so they sure move fast (but I love that). They decide to make tentative plans for another hookup, but Zoma ghosts him. Zoma had a bad breakup with a cheating ex who is also a hockey player and has some trust and abandonment issues stemming from that relationship, so he really doesn't want to date another hockey player, especially one who may go pro. As it turns out, it is really difficult to avoid people who are also on the ice alot and they encounter one another again. Ace and Zoma set off a lot of sparks together and I am here for the spice and the feels. They make such a cute couple, especially with the size difference - love how Ace just wants to carry Zoma around. Will Zoma work through his (lack of) trust issues? Will they be able to make things work even if Ace is offered a pro hockey position, especially if it's out of state?? There are bumps to navigate, but I think I can safely say that they have a wonderful HEA!! Oh - the cameos, the side characters are so cute too! Zoma's friend Nova is adorable and now I can't wait for Tyler's book, up next.

I received a complimentary copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bol.D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spinning to the Goal is a smooth-flowing and engaging story about two men fighting for their love and happiness while overcoming their differences, obstacles, and constraints caused by their career choices and past experiences.
The story is set in the world of hockey, highlighting the challenges of a life dedicated to the sport. This setting adds tension to the seemingly straightforward plot.
The fluent, vivid, and descriptive writing, combined with an abundance of twists and turns, kept my attention throughout the book.
A profound insight into the characters’ thoughts and emotions makes them relatable, lovable, and easy to understand while supporting characters, provided with sufficient context, enhance the story’s dynamics and appeal.
Ace, an aspiring hockey player on the path to the NHL, and Zoma, a figure skater, are attracted to each other from their very first meeting. While Ace accepts and embraces their strong attraction immediately, Zoma is reluctant to let his guard down and allow Ace into his life.
While Ace is steady and unwavering, refusing to give up on their love despite the obstacles, Zoma is insecure, doubtful, and afraid of giving their future a chance.
Overall, this is a captivating, heartwarming, inspirational, and vibrant story that is filled with emotions and passion while avoiding dark drama, complex issues, flawed characters, and high angst.
Though part of the series, the book can be read as a standalone.
Disclaimer: I received a free advance reader copy (ARC) of this book. This review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion.

[JG · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spinning to the Goal is the 4th book in Christie Gordon’s Desert Ice Hockey series and while it can certainly stand alone, I highly recommend reading the first three books first so you can get to know all of the characters. Plus they’re great stories too and who doesn’t love a good binge read?!

The series features a group of queer hockey players who call themselves the squad. They live together while in college and still stay close after some members move up to the NHL. This 4th book highlights Ace, a college senior/hockey goalie and Zoma, a grad student/figure skater. Ace and Zoma have immediate chemistry and a steamy hookup in the gay bar bathroom, but as a result of a prior hockey-player induced broken heart, Zoma is understandably hesitant to start a relationship with Ace once he discovers Ace plays hockey. But Ace is persistent and eventually Zoma agrees to a date. And then another…

At the same time as he is trying to woo Zoma, Ace is looking toward the future and is hoping for an NHL team to make him an offer, preferably his local AZ team so he can again play with his best friends (former squad members) while Zoma continues to worry about Ace choosing hockey over their relationship. Ace falls quickly for Zoma and stays true and dedicated while it takes time for Zoma to fully trust him. Ace is a super lovable character and the pair made an adorable couple so it was easy to root for their happily ever after. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the remaining squad members.

I received this book as an ARC and this honest review is submitted voluntarily.

[David McLean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second Desest Ice Hockey book I've read, and just like, Ice Rivals, the first book I read, I really enjoyed it!

The book centers around Ace, the goalie of ASU's hockey team, and Zoma, a figure skater. As with Ice Rivals, I liked that the story revolved around characters who were adults, rather than kids in High School like in many MM novels I've read. Because they were adults I felt Ace and Zoma's romance was more relatable, and it left me longing for my own hockey player boyfriend, even though it's not as common as a sport where I live. As the book revolves around an adult relationship, it gets steamy several times, more common than in Ice Rivals. By, the way, if you don't know a lot about hockey, like I do, don't worry, you don't have to be familiar with the game to understand what's going on.

The only thing that I think would deter someone from liking the book is knowing who The Squad is. If you haven't read the previous books you might be wondering who they are and I think the book could have dedicated a paragraph or two explaining who they were, other than Ace's best friends and teammates. If you haven't read any of the other Desert Ice Hockey books, I've recommended reading some of Christie Gordon's short stories about them so you know the significance of The Squad. However, I think Spinning to the Goal was a fine addition to the series and anyone who enjoys the series will like the book as much as I did. It does have me excited for the next Desert Ice Hockey book which centers around Tyler. I can't wait!

[Marion · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. While you can read this as a standalone, it would be much better if you read this series in order. This is the story of Ace and Zoma. Ace is in his final year of school at ASU and plays on their hockey team. He is a goaltender and is hoping to move up to the NHL. After being in a dating dry spell, his friends dress him up and drag him out to a club. It is their that Zoma and Ace first meet. Zoma is a figure skater who loves teaching children to skate. He is hoping to make that his career of choice as well. When Zoma and Ace first meet at the club, sparks fly everywhere! Instant chemistry. Ace is hoping that they can start seeing each other. Every indication is yes until Zoma learns that Ace is a goaltender. Then unexpectedly, Zoma ghosts Ace. Unable to figure out what he did wrong, Ace is baffled. Then the two of them meet up through skating. This time Ace wants to know why Zane ghosted him. So a coffee meet is set. It is their that we learn about Zane's heart being shredded by his previous love, another hockey player. Reluctantly, Zane agrees to give Ace a chance. This is their story. I loved Ace's character. He is kind, nice and honest. The cowboy part was a nice touch. Zane can't keep his emotional walls up against the wonderful Ace. I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and easy to read. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Djw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ace + Zoma

We have our hockey boy Ace's story in book 4 of the Desert Ice Hockey series. Ace finds Zoma at The Club on Mill and they hit it off immediately, but then Zoma gets spooked before they even leave the Club because of a past relationship.

Ace finds him and gets Zoma to give him a chance. It is great to see their relationship with each other build through the book. They both aren't sure or don't want to express their worries and feelings for fear of chasing the away or just being afraid. That delay in talking with each other comes to a head with Zoma's meddling ex, but Ace won't let Zoma get away this time. Ace stops him (in the best way... no spoilers though it's too cute and perfect) and confesses his feelings and explains what happened and Zoma listens.

. "........we can talk through it like the adults we are."

Which is one of the great things I love about this author. The MMC's have their issues, but they always end up reaching out to friends for advice, even if they might not listen right away, and even if there are a few bumps along the way, they communicate each other. They pause and listen to each other and work on it.

Through much doubt, worry, and love for each other they get their HEA. This book is also full of steamy spice from the beginning. My only wish would have been to see more of Zoma skating, but that's just me wanting more. Can't wait for book 5!

I received an ARC for this book. Nothing was promised or provided for this review.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great addition to this series, Ace and Zoma are a great match, even if things don’t start out perfectly for them! They are so sweet together and so easy to root for!

Ace is a goalie at ASU getting ready for the next steps and the NHL. Zoma is a figure skater who has moved to Arizona to get away from some past pains and finish his master’s degree. The two meet at a bar one night and have an immediate connection and hot hook up. But after Zoma realizes Ace is hockey player it brings back those pains he’s worked hard to move on from and ghosts Ace. But Ace isn’t letting him go that easily, he’s determined to prove he isn’t anything like Zoma’s ex and that he’s worth it.

Again, I really liked these two together, they are a great match and seem just meant for each other. I also understood Zoma’s hesitation at first, but was glad he gave Ace a chance and didn’t drag it out. These two really have a great connection and I liked seeing that develop and grow. These two easily fall for each other even as they figure out how to make things work. There are some communication areas these two have to work through, but they do and in doing so they find their true feelings for each other.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book, it was a good mix of sweet and meaningful with some good hockey and skating in there too. I definitely loved Ace and Zoma as a couple and was so happy to see them find the love and happiness they both totally deserved!

[Babara-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

TRUST PLAYS A HUGE PART IN ANY RELATIONSHIP!💕

The fourth book of the Desert Ice Hockey series revolves around Ace the state goalie for ASU, part of the Queer Squad, and a hookup in a gay bar/nightclub that felt more…

The moment Ace saw the sexy pint sized Zoma across the room he felt something he hasn’t felt in a long time- connection…

Their chemistry leads them to the hottest hookup of their lives in the bathroom until figure skater and children’s assistant coach Zoma gets introduced to Ace’s friends- hockey players- his trigger… which leads him to ghosting Ace until they have to work together on ice..

I loved seeing their relationship grow and deepen although it was a bit quick and how adorable they were together with a surprising dynamic!

I loved the meeting of both of their parents and families, the warmth and support they received and how they just slotted right in like a missing puzzle piece…

Of course there has to be a malicious ex to stir up some trouble- will he succeed?

I loved the camaraderie and banter of Ace’s roommates and how well Zoma fit in with them but Ace is being scouted by two teams for the NHL- one his dream team in Arizona and the other in Detroit- so what will happen to Zoma?
Will Ace make the right choice?

Tyler and a new “straight” team mate is up next, can’t wait!

I voluntarily received an ARC for an honest non biased review.

[Winnie Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went back and read all three of the previous books in this series before starting Spinning to the Goal, and wow am I glad I did. Each book has improved on the last, so this one is my new favorite! I think Ace and Zoma are super adorable, and I very much relate to Zoma’s dating history. It just gives you something to think about.

I’m such a sucker for a good queer hockey book, and I think the previous books helped me form a stronger attachment to the squad. This book (thankfully) subverted my expectations at one point, and I’m still relieved I was wrong about the direction of the story. I also love hockey players with figure skaters. They just understand each others’ lives so clearly.

I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say I wholeheartedly agree with Ace’s characterization as sometime Labrador and sometime Doberman lol. He walks the line incredibly well without feeling overbearing. I’m being intentionally vague (way too early for spoilers) but I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I’m SO excited for the next book in the series - I totally called it as soon as a new character was introduced and I can already tell it’s going to have some of my favorite tropes. Kudos for not spending too much time setting it up, though! 4.75 stars

[CreativeFreake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED LOVED LOVED these two MC’s! I think Zoma and Ace are two of my favorite characters. They were both very likeable, very believable, and both seemed to both have very solid heads on their shoulders. I really enjoyed following their relationship grow starting with the ghosting. The writing really showed the connection between the two of them. Although I was expecting and anticipating a huge break up and then a huge makeup...I didn’t get that. And I really liked that I didn't get that! Usually in stories like this where there is a problem dropped on the reader in the very beginning (Zoma's previous breakup and Ace's upcoming NHL contract), you expect a breakup for most of the book, AND I was pleasantly surprised that although they ALMOST broke up, THEY DIDN'T! and these two characters grew so much stronger from that point in the story. I loved it. They were both very sweet to each other, their friends, and their parents. The only thing I would edit (if I could) is the last line when Zuma shouted “Let’s go Ace! Shut Out!” Mentioning a shut out is a HUGE jinx and a HUGE NO NO in the hockey world…. that phrase should never ever be mentioned if you truly want your goalie to have a shut out! Other than that faux pas, I really truly loved this story and can't wait for the next one!

[Steve Pardue · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Spinning to the Goal’ is a remarkable addition to the ‘Desert Ice Hockey’ series, seamlessly continuing the stories of our favorite queer college hockey players known as the Squad. With this fourth installment, we dive into the lives of Ace and Zuma, where love and ambition intertwine on the icy rinks.

The heartwarming narrative revolves around Ace, whose dream is to make it to the NHL. Unlike many stories that tackle, heavy issues, this tale allows us to savor a relationship free from the strains of financial troubles or family acceptance. Instead, the main conflict arises from Zuma’s ex-boyfriend and Ace’s aspirations of landing a coveted position on the team he desires. This light-hearted tension paves the way for a delightful exploration of burgeoning love.

What makes ‘Spinning to the Goal’ truly special is its focus on the tender moments that help Ace and Zuma grow closer, culminating in beautiful confessions of love. Readers will appreciate how their relationship develops organically, filled with passion and warmth. With engaging characters and steamy encounters, this book promises to deliver a satisfying experience for fans of the series.

‘Spinning to the Goal’ is a delightful read, blending sports, romance, and hope into an enchanting story that resonates with the pursuit of happiness.

[Gabbi Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ace got an HEA! (an audio review)

I really am enjoying Christie’s Desert Ice Hockey series. Who knew Tempe, Arizona is such a steamy town – on and off of the rink?

Ace is in a dry spell – and he keeps his teammates on their toes. They go out one night and he locks eyes with Zoma. Talk about turning up the heat.

But things aren’t as simple as a hookup gone right.

Zoma was burned once before by a goalie – they leave. In fact, all hockey players leave – nature of the beast. So he ghosts Ace.

Ace, for his part, can’t figure out what’s going on. He had a connection with Zoma…right? Maybe not…?

When they wind up at the rink together – Ace helping Zoma’s figure skating students – they reconnect. Things heat up. Meeting the parents is planned.

Except Ace is about to graduate and he’s being courted by an NHL team – back east. So what’ll happen if he signs with them? Does that mean the end of his relationship with Zoma?

Zoma’s fallen hard, but he’s got school to finish and students to teach. So is he willing to give that all up for the man he loves?

Great story. Good emotional arc for both men. Enjoyable catching up with old friends.

As always Finnley Cole is a fantastic narrator. He and Christie are magic together. Can’t wait for the next one!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 fourth book had a pretty good plot featuring Ace and Zoma. For the first time in this universe, the MCs actually date for a several months before exchanging love confessions although they both feel a connection to each other from the first time they hook up. Zoma actually ghosts Ace after their first hook up because he had been really hurt by his ex who was also a hockey player. Ace talks Zoma into giving him a real chance to prove that not all hockey players are a**holes, and little by little, Zoma falls in love with him despite his fears of history repeating itself. Most of the angst is internal in this book, and there's no crazy ex or homophobic parent, so it was actually a pretty calm story all things considered. I also appreciated that there wasn't a big coming out statement to press and fans that creates a big fuss on page. It gives the idea that he and Zoma have a chance at living a quieter life without major harassment. Anyhow, I didn't have any major complaints with this book, as it was a fairly typical sports romance overall. I'm having fun reading this series.

[Ζωή Παππά · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Spinning to the goal" is book four in the desert ice hockey series. It's a contemporary romance series and we follow a group of college friends who are all queer and play for the hockey team. Each book can be read as a standalone but there are cameos and there's a strong found family theme.
This book is Ace's story. Ace is the goalie and I liked him a lot from the previous books. His love interest is Zoma who attends the same college and is a figure skater. Zoma had a bad break up and isn't ready to date again but the attraction between him and Ace is too hard to resist.
The chemistry between them was chef's kiss. I really really loved them together. They were both great characters and they grew a lot as the story progressed.
I also really enjoyed all the discussions about being a professional athlete and trying to navigate a new relationship. It was very interesting.
It was a fast paced and beautifully written book, a fantastic addition to the series. I'm looking forward to reading the next one.

[Dinoh (Akari) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW: Spinning to the Goal (Desert Ice Hockey #4) by Christie Gordon

Well, what can I say? If I have to be honest, I could say that Christie's stories are not perfect. If you read carefully, you find some small errors, but the stories and the characters are so endearing, that those errors end up being insignificant, allowing you to concentrate on the essence of the stories and enjoy them.

In this case, we meet Zoma and Ace. The attraction they feel is instantaneous and really strong, but Zoma has already been burned once by a hockey player and doesn't want to repeat that painful mistake. But Ace shows him time and time again that what exists between them is something worth fighting for, and that he will always be there, along the way, no matter how many obstacles they may encounter.

It has all the typical ingredients of this author: insta-attraction, insta-love, hot and steamy scenes, fun banter, loyal friendships, a little bit of angst and a great HEA.

I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Katriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ace is the star goalie on the hockey team he's on with his best friends, Noma is a figure skater who teaches kids how to skate more proficiently, along with teaching them how to become a figure skater if that's what they want to be.

I thought this story was decent, I won't say I was blown away by it but it was good. Ace is so sweet and adorable, he falls hard and fast for Noma. It's endearing that he would've put his dreams on hold for Noma, but thankfully he didn't have to.

Noma.. was an interesting character. While I do understand he's weary about dating hockey players after his ex broke his heart, I don't think it was fair of him to be so.. wishy washy with Ace. He would make it seem as though he's all in but then hold Ace at arms length.

There is minor angst in the story towards the end but it's resolved quickly and glossed over. I wish there wasn't as many steamy scenes, it just felt redundant after a while to keep having steamy scenes almost every chapter. Other than that a good sports romance story.