Icing the Play

Desert Ice Hockey #6

by Christie Gordon

Living with my high school crush is a bad play. Living with him while keeping my feelings on ice? Impossible.
Myles
Hockey is my dream.
But if I don’t make it to the NHL, I’ll be the family failure—especially with my little brother on his way.
Then Cooper struts back into my life. My high school crush.
The guy who made my chest ache with emotions I buried so deep, I wished they’d disappear.
He’s heading to the NFL and setting me up with his friend.
But my heart’s never raced for anyone the way it does him.
When he needs a place to live, I can’t say no.
Even if living with him might break me.

Cooper
I came to Arizona for football, not for Myles Cummings.
But the instant I see him again, I know my feelings back then weren’t just friendship.
And now? It’s stronger than ever.
There’s one big problem.
He doesn’t know I like guys, and my friend has his eye on Myles.
When Myles lets me move in, keeping my secret—and my hands off him—might be the hardest play of my life.

Icing the Play is the sixth book in the college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a hockey player crushing on his old friend, a football player hiding his sexuality, forced proximity, hurt/comfort, a short love triangle, second chances 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, Friends To Lovers, Sports, Found Family, College

296 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 17, 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

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Icing the Play is the 6th and probably last 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 Myles a member of the hockey team and last member of the squad and Cooper a football player. I couldn't wait to see Myles get his story and happy ending and it was definitely worth the wait. I love these two so much. Both of them have things to figure out. I'm not a big fan of love triangles but the short one in this book works. I love all the squad and it was nice to see them again. I love all Christie Gordon's books and can't wait to see what she writes next. I would definitely recommend this book and series.

[Grant Stramer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where to even start. I picked up this book after getting it during one of the Stuff Your Kindle days. As we all know, I am all for some gay hockey romance. This book starts off with Myles, a hockey player who is trying to turn pro. He reconnects with one of his friends from high school, Cooper, who is a football player who recently transferred to the same college.

When I say this book had me turning pages from start to end... well, that would be an understatement. I was also rereading ACOTAR for book club while reading this, and I wanted to be reading Icing The Play more then ACOTAR. I loved the deep connection that Myles and Cooper develop for eachother. They are truly "in love".

As the book begins to develop, you learn that both lovers want to turn Pro in their sports and that both families are not put to their families yet. These two story lines together had me wanting to know the end of it. When Cooper was able to come out to has family, and they were super supportive, I was worried what that was going to look like for Myles. Myles was very afraid his family would not accept him. As Myles is about to have a big upcoming meeting with a pro team scout, he gets injured... and his Dad arrives on top of that. Myles was almost forced to come out... which personally was my only thing I disliked about this book. However, after coming out, his family was supportive of him.

oh yeah, did I mention that both Myles and Cooper get contracts with teams in Seattle and get to live put their lives together?! ahhh! That was the most heartwarming part od the entire book.

4/5

Would recommend to any MLM Readers ♥️

[Ambz · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review.


This is book six of Christie Gordon's Desert Ice Hockey series and features Myles and Cooper.

I really wanted to like this but the story telling just didn't make sense to me.

Cooper and Myles knew each other from back when and Myles has always had a thing for Cooper but thinks he's straight however Cooper is bi but has only told a limited amount of people including JJ who Myles had a brief thing with that fizzled out a year before. Even though the moment Cooper sees Myles he wants him, he practically throws the idea of JJ at Myles, he does this multiple times but also comes across jealous of the pair.

He also ends up moving in with Myles and his roommates when his living situation turns sour.

I personally felt the JJ dating was an unnecessary arc and could have been just as good with them falling naturally with a few misunderstandings.

I like Christie's writing so wanted to like the story but just couldn't get along with this one.

3*

[Amanda Quarles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Icing the Play

Myles and Cooper

I have really enjoyed this series. I'm glad to see Myles find his one. Especially after all his friends found theirs. Definitely recommend reading.

[Bill Bottomley · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

Myles is a star hockey player at ASU worrying that he won’t get signed by an NHL team because he lacks confidence in his abilities. While attending his first social media class, he runs into his high school friend Cooper who in turn is a star football player at the same school. Neither is out to his family. While Cooper has feelings for Myles, he encourages him to date JJ, his teammate on the football team. After going on a couple of dates, Myles doesn’t feel any spark with JJ. Meanwhile, Cooper is having major problems with his roommate and moves into a vacant room in Myles house, shared with goalie Ace and his boyfriend Zoma. After moving in and after Myles telling him about the lack of spark, Cooper spills about his feelings for Myles. After Cooper obtains JJ’s (begrudged) blessing, they start to date. Myles also wants to sign with an agent but the one who represents his friend Tyler just says he wants to see him a little more, not exactly helping his lack of self-confidence, notwithstanding all of his friends encouraging him. They face significant difficulties that they overcome on their way to a happy ending.

The book has a certain amount of angst, though much can be seen as self-imposed, whether it be the coming out experience or Myles’ lack of confidence. The author also adds in a bit of suspense where JJ is concerned, given that he still has feelings for Myles. I found myself expecting him to cause some sort of problem, especially since Cooper did not really inform Myles of JJ’s feelings. Add in the fact that one isn’t sure how the coming out process will go for both of them or for which teams they will play in the end, and it keeps one on the edge of one’s seat. The two MCs are very sweet and solicitous of each other. They always have each other’s back and are very compatible. The plot is mostly straightforward with just a few detours along the way. The MCs are ably assisted in the story by a fairly large supporting cast, all of whom is on their side. The “Squad” of queer hockey players who lived together in the first book are all back in this installment, thus leading me to think that this is the last book in the series and that a new spin-off is on the way.

This novel is just as interesting as all the previous ones in the series and I’m happy to recommend it.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 - 4.5

I do love this hockey group and Myles and Cooper are a great addition to the series (and possibly conclusion??)! I was really happy to see Myles get his story and find his happiness and I think Cooper is the perfect match for him!

Myles is a college hockey player in his final season and trying to figure out what will be next, he’s hoping he’s good enough for the NHL but he has a good amount of self-doubt. He gets a surprise when he sees Cooper, a friend (and crush) from high school and finds out he’s transferred for his final football season. The two easily reconnect but what Myles doesn’t know is that Cooper isn’t as straight as he thought he was. Nope, turns out he’s been experimenting with guys and just might be interested in Myles. It gets a little complicated early on when Myles starts dating another football player, but their true feelings for each other doesn’t stay hidden for long and quickly these two find themselves exploring those feelings together.

I really did like these two together, it’s easy to feel their friendship foundation that easily and quickly becomes more. We get to see them both figure out what it is to be in a relationship since neither has ever really been in one before, it’s been quick hook-ups for them both. I thought that was especially sweet as they both try the romance thing – they definitely made me smile. They aren’t overly angsty or complicated, but do have things to figure out on their journey. Both of them are figuring out what their next steps will be after college, Myles trying to prove he’s good enough for the NHL and Cooper getting ready for the NFL and what that means for them as a couple. They both have to figure out coming out as well. Myles has always known he’s gay but has kept it from his family, afraid of what they will think. Cooper on the other is ready to tell his family, especially since he has Myles in his life.

Overall, I thought this was sweet and fun, with a good amount of heat – these two definitely have chemistry and heart! Myles and Cooper very much love each other and you can really feel that. It was nice to see their families as well and how they step up for them, loved it! I also really loved seeing the squad and how it all comes together for everyone – that was one great ending that got me right in the feels and had me smiling!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed all 6 of the books in the Desert Ice Hockey series that follows a group of queer hockey players at ASU, Icing the Play being the final one. Myles is the last player of the group still in college at ASU, rooming with Ace, who has graduated and now plays for the Coyotes, and his roommate/boyfriend, figure skater Zoma. When Myles runs into Cooper, a former high school classmate who has just transferred to ASU, his old high school crush is rekindled, but will it be reciprocated since Cooper was straight? When Cooper has roommate problems and needs a new place to live, Myles offers the extra room in the house where he lives, not thinking about the complications that could arise until after the offer. Luckily for him, Cooper is bi at least, and is attracted to Myles, also having had a crush in high school. As the two navigate attraction and proximity, hockey and football schedules and conflicts, not being out to families or teams, and the stresses of agents and contract hopes, their relationship grows and consumes more of their time and attention, becoming a supportive and loving HFN, and possibly a HEA after graduation.

It is great to see former MCs from previous books appear for cameos, both Myles and Cooper are hoping to be signed to teams from the same area (my home stomping grounds), and life looks good (it’s a romance, how else could it look at the end?). Loved the unexpected twist at the end. It was also fun to see a connection between the queer guys from the hockey house featured in the Desert Ice Hockey series and the band Knot Me from Christie’s Rock U series. Her characters are so memorable, it’s especially nice to bring them together for a cameo once there was a connection made through guys from both. If you’re a fan of hockey, there is a lot of that, plus some football for pigskin fans. You will find a lot of hot, spicy, steamy scenes to keep you engaged, if that’s your thing, as well as just good, solid friend/boyfriend/lover connections. I would recommend this book, as well as the others in the series, if you are a fan, or just curious about Christie’s writing — characters, plot, everything, she does not disappoint.

I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.

[JG · Rating 5 out of 5]

Icing the Play concludes Christie Gordon’s Desert Ice Hockey series (book 6 of 6). While it can be read as a standalone, it would be ideal to start from the beginning of the series to get to know all of the secondary characters and their relationships. It features so many favorite MM tropes and themes to include friends to lovers, bisexual awakening, coming out, found family, a bit of a love triangle, and college athletics (especially hockey, my favorite!).

We’ve met Myles, one of the male main characters, in the earlier books in the series. He’s the final member of the squad (a group of queer hockey players) on ASU’s hockey team (the other members have all graduated and made it to the NHL) and while he has been living with the squad members, who are all openly queer and in relationships with men, he isn’t out to his family due to concerns about how they will respond and how it might impact his future hockey career. Myles is in his senior year and struggling with confidence and concerns about whether he will be able to get an agent and NHL contract.

Cooper, the other male main character, is new to this universe. He transferred to ASU to play football his senior year and as it happens, he and Myles were friends in high school, though Myles at the time had to suppress his crush since he wasn’t out and Cooper was straight. They reconnect and eventually Cooper ends up moving into the squad house, since the football house is full and his roommate situation is problematic. What Myles doesn’t know is that Cooper is not not quite as straight as he’d thought all those years and might also be crushing on Myles. After a confusing start involving one of Cooper’s football teammates and a love triangle of sorts, ultimately Cooper and Myles start dating. They’re seriously adorable and it’s easy to root for their relationship as it evolves over their senior year and into the future.

I highly recommend this book and really, this entire series. Throughout the books, the men are all kind, sweet, and swoony and there’s plenty of steam too. I’m sad it’s the end of the hockey squad house era, but I’m looking forward to what Christie writes next. 5 stars for Desert Ice Hockey and Icing the Play!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every book in this series and this book is no different. This is the final book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. It is the story of Myles and Cooper. Myles is the final member of the "squad" at ASU. All the others have graduated in the earlier books. While Myles is in the background in those earlier books, this is his time to shine. He is hoping to get an agent and an offer to play in the NHL by the end of the school year. Myles is an excellent player, but he just doesn't believe in himself. Everyone else sees his star potential but him. He is also not out to his family and that causes him extra stress. Luckily he is living with Ace, a now NHL player of the squad and Zoma , his figure skating boyfriend. Two cheerleaders on the road to building his self confidence. Cooper is a star football player who has just transferred to ASU for his final year. He too is planning on going professional by the end of the school year. They meet on the first day of a media class. Happy to see a friendly face, they immediately start talking. The problem is, it reignites Myles old high school crush on Cooper. Which is hard as he knows that Cooper is straight. Or at least he thinks so. When roommate problems cause Cooper to move into the spare room at the squad house, their relationship grows. But when Cooper starts to suffer from jealousy over Myles's dates, it forces him to evaluate what he wants and who he is. And once he has decided, he needs to let Myles know. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. Both Myles and Cooper were so sweet and caring. I loved him Cooper believed in Myles 100% and continually showed him how much he supported him. These two are quite the power couple and I loved spending time with them. I received a complementary advance review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I really enjoyed this book and I will miss this series.

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, we are on book 6 of desert ice hockey and most probably the last book in the series. And in this book it’s Myles story. He is the last of the players in college. The rest of his ex roommates guys in the series have gone on to play the NHL but Myles has lost confidence in the fact that he’s going to be picked this year. It just means he’s gonna work extra hard to get there. On the first day of class he is shocked and extremely happy to see his high school crush Cooper. But Cooper is straight but that didn’t stop Myles from having feelings for him. He was there on a football scholarship and Myles couldn’t wait to spend more time with him.
Copper had moved to Arizona for the football but seeing Myles was the icing on the cake. Recently Cooper was attracted to men. And he now understood that the feelings that he felt for Myles was more than friendship and he could not wait to get to know Myles better. Cooper was having an issue with his roommate. The guy was an absolute waste of space who enjoyed making Cooper’s life a misery so when Myles had told him that a room was available in their house Cooper jumped at it but he felt he should be honest with the guys about his sexuality and this opened the door for him and Myles . I’ve got to say this was a beautiful read these two together was just effortless you know they both weren’t out to their families and Myles Was really unsure how his family would react but they’re just a beautiful couple. This was such an easy read there is a bit of an issue in it, but it’s not between the main characters. It’s not between Myles and Cooper. I’ve got to say this is just a beautiful book to read and I cannot wait to see what Christie comes up with next. I received this ARC from the author and this is me leaving my honest review.

[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 sixth and final book had a pretty good plot featuring Myles and Cooper. Once Myles knows that his high school crush, Cooper, is bisexual and interested in him, it's all systems go for their relationship. A lot of the plot involves the two of them coming out to their families, which is something Myles had been scared to do for years, but that Cooper was easily willing to do. The rest of the book's plot is about Myles' anxiety about whether he's good enough to get an NHL contract. By the end of the book, the MCs know that they're headed to Seattle where Myles has NHL contract and Cooper has his NFL contract. A lot 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. My biggest complaint about this book is that during the epilogue every couple who got together during this series decided to get married in Vegas after a set of spontaneous engagements. It made the idea of the six couples getting married feel too whimsical and almost like a response to peer pressure. One of the guys even tells Myles that it's got to be all of them. Anyhow, this book was a fairly typical sports romance overall, and I enjoyed it. I've had fun reading this series and am looking forward to reading the next spin=off series about other queer football players at ASU.

[Michelle N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the members of the ASU ice hockey squad have joined the NHL, except Myles. He is currently finishing out his senior year, and finally getting his chance to shine on the starting lineup, now that his larger-than-life best friends and former roommates have graduated. The problem is, as good as he is, Myles wonders is he good enough to follow his best friends to the NHL. While he is still sharing a house with former goalie Ace, Myles is missing his friends and is trying to find his place on the team where he is now the only player who is out to everyone.
Cooper Hayes went to high school with Myles but has not seen him in years until they run into each other in class. Cooper just transferred to ASU to finish his senior year playing football for the college. Cooper needs a place to live and Myles not only has an empty room but a huge crush on his high school friend. What Myles doesn’t know is that Cooper is bi, and is attracted to Myles. Soon it becomes apparent the attraction is mutual, and Myles and Cooper decide to act on their feelings.
This is the last book in the Desert Ice Hockey series. Myles has been a member of the squad since the first book and it is great to see him get his HEA. My favorite theme with this series is the found family this group of hockey players have made for themselves and how their family has gotten bigger with every story. None of the guys on the squad doubt Myles’ talent or skill on the ice but it takes his growing relationship with Cooper to build his confidence and take pride in himself. While I am sad to see this fantastic series come to an end, it has a spectacular ending.
I received an ARC for my honest review.

[Jim Freihofer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 6th and final installment in Christie's "Desert Ice Hockey" series. It can be read stand-alone, but to get the full effect you need to read them in order. After being in the background for so long, Myles finally gets his own book and it's a great read.

Myles is the last member of "the squad" at ASU - a group of queer college hockey players. His high school football-player crush transfers in from Northwestern and Myles is shocked to see Cooper when he attends his first class of the semester. Myles is unaware that Cooper has a crush on Myles even though he's identified as straight up to this point. Myles has had a situationship going on with another football player, JJ, since last season. So Cooper is a bit stymied until that eventually works itself out. Then when Cooper needs a place to live and Myles offers him the spare bedroom at his house, things start to evolve between these two. Eventually they commit to each other after working through all the issues you would expect and we have a hot romance between a hockey player and football star. The heat is very intense in this one - more than Christie usually give us so fasten your seat belt, LOL.

There are tons of crossovers in this book. Ace still lives with Myles even though he's moved on to the NHL so he's featured prominently. But so are the other members of "the squad" from earlier books. We even get the Knot Me band members back for a cameo. And we are also introduced to some of the ASU football guys who will be the foundation of Christie's next series.

Keep turning the pages because the Epilogue of this book absolutely rocks. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Myles is the last one in the squad that is still in school and the last one waiting for his contract to the NHL. The pressure is on and every day he kept but wonder if he is actually good enough to make it to the NHL. He’s also been keeping a secret from his family about being gay. With so much pressure, he just doesn’t know how they will react. And perhaps if he secures his contract it will be easier to tell them. And then out of nowhere Myles’s old high school crush arrives on campus. Myles never expected to see Cooper again. But Cooper transferred schools to play on the football team in the hopes of being drafted to the NFL. And suddenly that old crush comes roaring back. But will it matter? Cooper is straight, right? When Cooper sees Myles he suddenly realizes exactly what those old feelings he had way back when. And newly discovering he is bi? He can’t keep his eyes off of Myles. Just one problem. His friend is into Myles. He’ll do his best to stay out of his way but can both Myles and Cooper really ignore their feelings? A great end to this series with Myles finding his happy ending. I love how these two got a chance to get to know one another years later and see that they had this connection but not it is stronger than ever. It takes them a bit to get there, but once they do, there is no way to deny how well these two fit together. This has been a fun series and I’m sad to see it end! But looks like we still get to branch off and explore some other characters we’ve met!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Winnie Quick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want this duo in real life! A hockey player dating a football player, can you imagine? Swoon. Anyway, my favorite squad member got his own book and I’ve been looking forward to it since he was first introduced. The youngest guy in the squad and the one who had such strong personality swings - I knew there had to be a story behind it.

And oh how messy things get when the “honorable” thing is to set your high school buddy up with your friend because they kinda had a thing but you immediately have a crush on high school buddy after seeing him all grown and hockey. Honestly, I saw that playing out exactly as it did because college equals messy lol.

I appreciate well received coming out stories because there are enough awful instances in real life that I don’t need that in every queer romance book. And of course, the unending support from the rest of the squad. I’m always happy they reappear as family should. I see why they joke about Myles being Canadian, the man is AGGRESSIVELY Canadian eh lol.

The football inclusion was fascinating. Putting Myles’s two love interests on the same team was…well messy lol. I’m interested to see how well Christie writes football because hockey is my favorite sport to read but football is my favorite sport to watch.

I don’t want to give anything away, but oooh that epilogue was the epitome of the squad and I want everyone who has fallowed the entire series to read it ASAP! I received a copy of this book directly from the author and this is my honest review. 4.25 stars.

[Megan McGrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Myles & Cooper
This book sure stayed on the spicy side of things throughout. 🙃 I loved that these guys were comfortable enough with one another that they just acted immediately on their attraction when they were "allowed/okay-ed" to do so.

As the youngest member of The Squad for the ASU Hockey team, Myles was feeling his loneliness, despite still sharing the squad house with Ace & Zoma. Without his friends around, he doubted his talent and worth with the team. All of his friends had received NHL contracts, and he wasn't feeling sure that he could measure up. It took seeing an old HS friend and spending quality time with him that helped him open up his potential and believe in himself again. Myles has some ups and downs in his story, but I loved how his story led to his and Cooper's HEA. Cooper was a great and supportive partner to Myles, as well as being an incredible athlete in his own right. I loved the path he was set on by the end of the story. He and Myles made a fantastic and highly entertaining couple.

Wrapping up the final story in the Desert Hockey series for The Squad, it's a bit sad to move on from the team, but they all got their incredible HEAs, and I loved the ending to Icing the Play with the guys in Vegas. Always a fun time to be had with The Squad. I know there will be a little side story with Mason's little brother, Lucas, but since he's not a member of the squad, he has his own facet of the hockey universe.
Icing the Play is a must read if you're familiar with Christie Gordon's books, but you should definitely read the rest of the Desert Hockey series first (at the very least, if not also the Rock U series that precedes Desert Hockey). ❤️🏒

I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.

[CreativeFreake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miles and Coopers story is the sixth story in the dessert Ice Hockey series. Miles is the last of a special hockey squad while Cooper is a new introduction to a similar squad of football players.These two MCs were a super sweet couple, first meeting in high school. The story line started with Miles and Cooper reuniting in a social media class; they quickly reignited their friendship which had Cooper pushing Miles to date one of his football friends JJ. Cooper’s jealous side quickly surfaced seeing JJ and Miles together, which in turn made him really realize his deeper feelings for Miles aside from friendship. Miles broke thing off with JJ as he wasn't feeling a spark, opening up the door for a romantic relationship to form between himself and Cooper. Once the couple dove in, they seemed pretty solid. There was no angst and no huge event that broke them apart which was really Nice. The breakup, makeup trope gets old. The couple had a solid foundation throughout the story and really supported each other in their professional journeys. I really enjoyed reading Miles and Coopers story, I suspect this is the last story for the squad and this was a good ending to a good series...I must say although I was sad, the Epilogue was awesome, it was such a great way to end this series! I really really loved the epilogue!!! I look forward to seeing what is next from this author :)



BUT! On a serious side note for Christie Gordon... The Oiler's are an amazing team (better than the Panther's) and should be considered for a draft spot in the future! For Real!!!

[Djw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Myles + Cooper

"This was crazy. We were crazy. But who said being with someone had to follow whatever society thought was normal." (Chapter 9)

This journey into Desert Ice Hockey gives us our last Squad member, Myles, finding his HEA. It introduces us to his long lost high school crush, Copper, who has come for his senior year to play football for ASU.

Myles hasn't seen Copper since high school and last he knew Cooper was straight and Myles is still very much crushing on him. But Copper has a secret Myles doesn't know and doesn't want to hope for especially when Copper convinces Myles to go out with JJ.

In Christie Gordon master style of characters talking with each other, seeking help from friends, and communicating with each other everyone's truths come out. While JJ gets caught a bit in the whirlwind that is Myles and Cooper, they talk it out and work it out so that no one is overly hurt.

Another thing I love is all the references to how HOT it is Arizona. Every description is right on point. And we get to see lots of Zoma and Ace as well as some of the other guys in this story including Knot Me in Las Vegas.

Myles and Cooper both knew what they wanted and went for it - for each other and for their futures. Lots of spice and finding our HEA in this wrap up on this series and introduction to the next in this ever expanding world.

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

[Steve Pardue · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Icing the Play’ is an exhilarating addition to the ‘Desert Ice Hockey’ series, where passion for sports blends seamlessly with heartfelt relationships. This sixth installment weaves the story of Myles, the last of his college hockey squad to take center stage. While the rest of his friends are off in the NHL, Myles navigates his journey, feeling the pressures of a potential professional contract.

One of the most touching aspects of this series is the camaraderie among the players. Even with the hustle of their growing careers, the guys rally around Myles during his moments of insecurity. Whether it’s dealing with an ankle injury or contemplating love, their unwavering support reminds readers that true friendships endure.

The romance blossoming between Myles and Cooper adds an exciting twist to the narrative. Their journey from childhood friends to roommates, and eventually lovers, is both heartwarming and relatable. Cooper, an aspiring NFL player, discovers new facets of himself as he reconnects with Myles. You will find yourself rooting for this couple as they balance the challenges of both sports and new love in the vibrant backdrop of Arizona.

‘Icing the Play’ is not just about sports; it’s about personal growth, acceptance, and the beautiful complexities of love. With hockey action that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this book promises the delightful happily ever after that the ‘Desert Ice Hockey’ series always provides.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the author’s Desert Ice Hockey series and features Myles, the youngest, lone remaining member of the squad on the team, That was bad enough but then he also had to contend with the fear he wasn’t good enough for the NHL. We also had Cooper, Myles’s previously assumed straight crush from high school who transferred to ASU to play football his senior year.

I liked Myles but I LOVED Cooper, he was the absolute sweetest guy! Openly affectionate from the beginning and having no problem whatsoever with PDA, he completely melted my heart. Neither were out to their families so talk of that naturally occupied a fair bit of the book but it still had tons of fun from the squad we’ve come to love as well as the new football friends that Cooper brought with him but there was absolutely no drama or angst which is my preference even though I realize it’s sometimes necessary—thankfully it wasn’t needed here because it was perfect just the way it was. And that ending, oh my gosh, it was awesome, the perfect ending to the series <3!

This entire series was wonderful and something I’d recommend to anyone who has even a passing interest in hockey—there’s nothing that requires prior understanding of the sport, it’s just a fun, sweet, series with a bunch of fun loving guys who happen to live for hockey and their friendship. 5 stars!!!

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read!
Now I am not going to give all the details of this book.
I will however tell how this book made me feel while reading it.
The characters of previous books, connected to this one show up and I absolutely love when that happens!
We get to see what has happened with them since their book was released. In fact, there are characters mentioned from other books the author has written not in this series but connected to it.
Confusing? Maybe but, for those of us wo have read previous books from this author we love that she's done this.
Now Cooper and Myles are perfect for each other. They appreciate everything about each other and have each other's backs in all things.
We also get to meet their families and see the dynamics of them.
Yes, there are lots of smexy times but also there are times of self-doubt on Myle's side, in regard to his abilities in his chosen sport and encouragement from Cooper during those times.
These two just made me smile big time. Throughout the entire book. Their friends were amazing also.
I highly recommend this book and the others in this series.
So, buy this, enjoy this and thank me for suggesting it, only in your head...lol
10/10 hockey sticks and footballs.

[Camryn Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ:

ʙᴏᴏᴋ: ɪᴄɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘʟᴀʏ (ᴅᴇꜱᴇʀᴛ ɪᴄᴇ ʜᴏᴄᴋᴇʏ #6)
ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★★★★
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱɪɴɢ: 6/17

𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴:

🏈𝘚𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦
🏒𝘔𝘔
🏈𝘍𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺
🏒𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴
🏈𝘏𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭 𝘊𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘩
🏒𝘙𝘰𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴
🏈𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴
🏒𝘏𝘶𝘳𝘵/𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵

ᴍʏ ᴏᴘɪɴɪᴏɴ ⋆⭒˚.⋆

“𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦’𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬. 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦. 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘩𝘪𝘮. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘨𝘰 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘯𝘵. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺.”

Looking for something short and low angst and a wonderful love story? This is definitely it especially if you want to get into MM I absolutely loved their love story and devoured it in one sitting

After not seeing each other since high school cooper has transferred and they ended up having a class together and want to hang out with each other

I love Cooper he was everything! He came to ASU for his senior year to play football, he has came out has bi and discovering himself, he has this horrible roommate and when an opportunity to move into a house with Myles and his other two friends

We’ve known Myles because he’s a recurring character throughout the whole series and he finally got his book and I’ve been waiting for this because I’ve always loved him! He’s such a sweet boy

Their chemistry throughout the book was so amazing they are just so perfect for each other (sorry JJ oops) and the spice was absolutely divine *chef kiss*

Thank you Christie For giving me this arc it was everything and more <3

[Lori Dunn · Rating 3 out of 5]

myles is the last of "the squad" left at college as he finishes his senior year, hoping and working for his own NHL contract. Cooper, a good friend from high school, and an old crush show up. Cooper is a tight end on the football team. He recently transferred to Arizona to pursue his NFL career.

Myles has always crushed big on Coop, but Cooper is straight, or so he thinks. Cooper has a friend JJ, who likes Myles.

this story has angst galore. a hot minute of a love triangle. Falling for your 'straight' friend. Having insecurities about your abilities and prospects in the NHL after all your friends have gotten contracts and not you.

this is a great series. However, I found myself questioning the characters too often to fully enjoy it. the storyline with JJ seemed unrealistic and unneeded after the comments from myles at the start of the book. Coopers experience and supposed lack of same was contrary to his response and apparent knowledge later on.

it was confusing at best.
the cameos of all the past characters was fun. it's great they all get their hea. then the epilogue is way over the top at the end and again seems off for this new couple.

3/5 stars

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet swoony hockey romance. We're back at ASU with the last member of The Squad who has paired off yet, Myles. He's in his senior year, worried about whether or not he'll get drafted, and still in the closet with his family. Enter Cooper, transfer student and football star who just happens to be Myles' friend from high school. Myles has had a crush on Cooper since then and seeing him unexpectedly sitting in one of his classes brings it all rushing back. But Cooper is straight, like an endless stream of girls straight, right? But Cooper has been experimenting with guys over the years and he is immediately smitten with Myles. There is a mild complication of a previous connection between Miles and another football player, but that is solved pretty easily. Coming out to the families goes is another hurdle they face but it's done with little issue. The relationship between the 2 MCs is very solid throughout and great to read. And they are super hot together, the spicy scenes are great. I have read most of the books in this entwined universe and as always would totally recommend.

[Babara-Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A FRIENDS TO LOVERS LOVE STORY!💕🏒⛸️🏈

The last ASU ice hockey player- Myles Cummings- finally gets all his dreams fulfilled but his journey is not smooth as there are some bumps in the road…

Two old school friends Myles Cummings and Cooper Hayes’s paths cross five years later in the same social media class at ASU and this is where a high school crush finally gets requited but first Miles gets reacquainted thanks to Cooper setting him up with JJ a fellow team mate and friend of Miles who he met at a study group…

Myles has a few insecurities and hurdles in his path to happiness to overcome but with the help of Cooper and his ice hockey family it is a path worth taking…

I loved all the support they received with their coming out strategies and their journey to becoming boyfriends and falling head over skates and cleats in love.

We get introduced to the next spinoff’s characters-the Desert Dogs football team of which JJ and Cooper are part of!

I can’t wait for the new series!

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

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The baby of The Squad Myles is in the last year at college, the last member not playing in the NHL. No agent, no team knocking down his door, he feels he is no good at hockey. However his year picks up when he comes face to face with his high school crush Cooper, now playing American Football at the college they reconnect their friendship.
Myles and Cooper were so good for each other, their own personal cheerleaders. They were adorable and whilst it felt quick they already got the get to know each out of the way at high school.
The tension between their coming out, their parent's reactions and if they would both go professional made this a quick read as I wanted them both to have their HEA.
Being the last in the series, it was good to catch up with the rest of the guys and cameo appearances from characters from the Rock U series.
With a teaser of the upcoming series and I am excited to start a new series and to carry on in this world.
This was a perfect book for the last in the series.

[Crystal Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great ending to this series! I loved reading Myles and Coopers story.

Myles is the last one of the squad and he is really doubting if he is cut out to make it in the NHL. He hasn’t come out to his family yet either. He is in a weird space and doubting a lot of things. His friends are trying to keep his positive and telling him to focus and make this season great.

Cooper has moved to Arizona for his final year of college and he is newly exploring his sexual side with men. He meets up with a high school friend and he is now seeing him differently.

Myles and Cooper both like one another, but neither know how to tell the other. Myles doesn’t even know that Cooper is bi and thinks he is just into women and Myles is “seeing” Coopers friend and teammate. But once the two finally let each other know they have a crush on one another, the sparks fly.

These two really helped one another. They gave each other the courage to come out to their families. Cooper was there to hype Myles up and see that he is great and to see his potential.

4⭐️
3🌶️

[Amanda Winter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Icing the Play is a sweet, satisfying finale to Christie Gordon’s Desert Ice Hockey series—and Myles’ story was the perfect way to close it out. He’s the last of the squad still at ASU, struggling with confidence and unsure if an NHL future is in the cards, especially when he's still not out to his family.

Enter Cooper: former high school friend, new football transfer, and definitely not as straight as Myles thought. Their reunion is full of tension, missteps, and mutual pining (plus a mini love triangle), but once they finally open up, it’s soft, supportive, and full of genuine chemistry.

I loved the return of the squad and the found family vibes—still one of my favourite things about this series. Myles and Cooper’s journey had just enough angst, growth, and swoon to keep me hooked, and the ending wrapped everything up with warmth and hope.

This series has been such a cosy, queer sports romance comfort read. Sad it’s over, but excited to see what Christie Gordon does next!

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Icing the Play is the sixth book in Christie Gordon's college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey. And just when I think things can't get angstier.....
Myles is the last of the original Desert Ice Hocket team still in school. He's anxious about getting a contract in the NHL. He's found that his high school crush might not be so straight. And he has never come out to his family. His lack of confidence is so, so angsty. Cooper, his crush from high school also isn't out to his family. And he's on tenterhooks about earning a NFL contract.
Myles and Cooper have a sweet and spicy romance. They work through their mutual angst, together. Both are very supportive of the other. Support also comes in the form of the found family of Christie's other series. It's nice to catch up to the other guys and their lives.
A fun, quick read. Maybe.... the ending was just a bit cringeworthy, but the story is up to Chritie Gordon standards.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my review.

[Jack Harkness · Rating 5 out of 5]

South Park, rosemary chicken pasty, the toy misuse, little Canuck, Elvis, scooter guy, superstition sex, en fuego, Knot Me, expired car insurance

Remember folks--this is a work of fiction. A fictional rom-com. It's a high steam one, too. Keeping that in mind, this is a sweet and beautiful story between two college athletes.

Cooper Hayes is an ASU football tight end, and Myles Cummings is on the ASU ice hockey team. Each MC is hoping to be recruited to play professionally in their respective sport. At the beginning, both men are crushing on the other. One is supposedly straight. The other severely lacks self-confidence. I feel bad for JJ. Each MC's friends and teammates are supportive and awesome.

The story flows well and kept me interested. I was sucked in by the drama until the end. I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it.