On Thin Ice: A BRAND NEW hockey player x pop star romance from USA Today Bestseller Kelly Jamieson for 2026

by Kelly Jamieson

The BRAND NEW steamy hockey sports romance from USA Today Bestseller Kelly Jamieson 💥⛸️💙 ⭐️ Perfect for fans of spicy hockey romances with heart from Elle Kennedy, Chelsea Curto and Heated Rivalry! ⭐️ Marek's world is on the ice, Nicki's is on the stage. But their worlds collide in one steamy night in Vegas...🌶️ Marek

Playing for the New Jersey Storm I know how to handle the heat – on and off the ice. But nothing compares to Nicki Sullivan. We collided in One wild night, no strings and a spark I couldn’t shake. We went our separate ways, but I never stopped thinking about her. When I see she’s involved in an accident that nearly takes her life, I drop everything and drive to New York. She’s broken, shaken… but still the woman who set my world alight. So I bring her home with me — to recover, to breathe… and maybe, to see if that spark between us still burns.

Nicki

After the accident, I can’t face the music — or the world. The last person I expect to show up is Marek — sinfully hot, too good to be real, and suddenly my rescuer. I should push him away. Instead, I let him take me to his apartment, where everything feels dangerously safe. But it’s not just comfort — it’s him. The heat between us is impossible to ignore and being with him feels right. But I can’t hide away forever. Falling for him is a risk because this time the ice beneath us may just crack.

A high-heat, emotionally charged hockey romance about a protective, obsessed hockey hero, and a love that saves them ❤️‍🩹

THE NEW JERSEY STORM SERIES WILL BECOME YOUR NEW OBSESSION

🥅 Hockey romance x celebrity romance

🥅 Protective / alpha male MMC

🥅 He Falls First

🥅 'Who Hurt You'

🥅 One night stand

🥅 Spicy af!

THE NEW JERSEY STORM SERIES WILL BECOME YOUR NEW OBSESSION

'No one does hockey romance like Kelly Jamieson!' Kate Meader

'Another beautiful story from the amazing Kelly Jamieson' Reader Review

'I freaking LOVE this series.' Reader Review

'Kelly Jamieson never ever disappoints' Reader Review

'If you love a hot hockey romance, you'll love this series.' Reader Review

'Can’t wait to read more from this author!' Reader Review

310 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 13, 2026

About the author

Kelly Jamieson is a USA Today bestselling author of over 70 romance novels and novellas. Her writing has been described as “emotionally complex,” “sweet and satisfying,” and “blisteringly sexy.” She likes black coffee, white wine and high heels…and of course cheering on her Winnipeg Jets during hockey season! She loves hearing from readers, so please visit her website at www.kellyjamieson.com.

Reviews

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelly Jamieson’s On Thin Ice is the kind of book that grabs you by the collar, dumps you in Vegas with a hockey god and a pop star, and then dares you not to care when everything falls apart.
Boldwood Books—thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.

Let me be clear: I came here for hot hockey romance, messy feelings, and maybe a little escapism, and somehow I ended up emotionally invested, slightly teary, and very attached to a man whose love language is quiet consistency. Rude, honestly. This book starts with chaos energy—a one-night stand, instant chemistry, and two people who absolutely should not be catching feelings—and then calmly says, actually, let’s talk about trauma, healing, and what it means to stay when things get hard.

Marek is the kind of MMC romance readers hoard like treasure. He falls first, falls hard, and never pretends otherwise. No games. No swagger masking emotional cowardice. Just a man who knows what he wants and shows up, over and over, even when Nicki can’t meet him halfway yet. And Nicki makes sense. Her fear, her hesitation, her need to control her world after losing it in a very public, very violent way all rang painfully true. Did I want to shake her sometimes? Yes. Did I also understand her? Unfortunately, yes again.

What really worked for me was the tone. This book is cozy without being fluffy, sexy without being hollow, and heavy without being overwhelming. The humor sneaks in sideways, often self-aware, often dry, and always welcome. The spice is there early, but it’s the emotional intimacy that lingers. Recovery isn’t linear here. Love doesn’t magically fix everything. And that choice—to let healing be slow and imperfect—elevates this from “fun hockey romance” to something with actual staying power.

One quote that stuck with me: “He didn’t try to make me feel better. He just stayed until I did.” That’s Marek in a sentence, and honestly, that’s the whole book’s thesis.

Is the Vegas connection fast? Yes. Is the premise a little indulgent? Also yes. But Jamieson earns it by grounding the romance in patience, care, and real emotional labor. I finished this book feeling comforted, slightly bruised, and very ready to keep reading this series. If this is the emotional baseline for the New Jersey Storm, I’m in trouble.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ out of 5

#OnThinIce #KellyJamieson #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #ARCReview #HockeyRomance #SportsRomance #CelebrityRomance #BookReview #RomanceBooks #RomanceReaders

[Tanisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lately, I have been deep in my sports romance era, and hockey romances in particular have completely won me over. Add in a second chance storyline, and I am instantly interested. There is something so compelling about watching characters revisit their past, face what went wrong, and try to build something better the second time around. That curiosity alone had me excited to pick up this book.

From the very first chapter, this story pulled me in. I loved that it is told in first person with alternating perspectives, which made it easy to understand both characters on a deeper level. Being able to see inside their thoughts helped me connect with their emotions and motivations, especially as they navigated a situation that felt complicated and uncertain. It is the kind of romance where you want both characters to be happy, even when the path forward is not at all clear. That tension kept me turning pages because I genuinely did not know how everything would come together.

I also appreciated how the book handled heavier themes while still weaving in moments of humor. The balance between emotional depth and lighter scenes worked really well for me. As someone who has personally felt the weight of parental expectations, I deeply related to the FMC and found her journey especially moving.

All in all, I really loved this book. It had heart, humor, and a romance that felt earned and satisfying. Knowing that the MMC’s twin has a story of her own makes me even more excited, and I will definitely be picking that one up next. I cannot wait to see what this author releases in the future.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Emma Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

🩷 Blurb-
⭐️ Marek's world is on the ice, Nicki's is on the stage. But their worlds collide in one steamy night in Vegas...🌶️ Marek
Playing for the New Jersey Storm I know how to handle the heat – on and off the ice. But nothing compares to Nicki Sullivan. We collided in One wild night, no strings and a spark I couldn’t shake. We went our separate ways, but I never stopped thinking about her. When I see she’s involved in an accident that nearly takes her life, I drop everything and drive to New York. She’s broken, shaken… but still the woman who set my world alight. So I bring her home with me — to recover, to breathe… and maybe, to see if that spark between us still burns.
💜Nicki
After the accident, I can’t face the music — or the world. The last person I expect to show up is Marek — sinfully hot, too good to be real, and suddenly my rescuer. I should push him away. Instead, I let him take me to his apartment, where everything feels dangerously safe. But it’s not just comfort — it’s him. The heat between us is impossible to ignore and being with him feels right. But I can’t hide away forever. Falling for him is a risk because this time the ice beneath us may just crack.
🩷 Review -
I'm loving all the Hockey romance novels that are around at the moment and On Thin Ice certainly didn't disappoint. It had everything that I could want in a sports romance novel and more. The story was easy to follow and there was a great cast of characters. Plus the pacing was just right. There were also plenty of spicy scenes. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Boldwood Books and the author Kelly Jamieson for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Kerri Wells Goetzman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a strong setup and plenty of emotional potential, but the execution landed a little uneven for me. The Vegas one night stand between Marek, a pro hockey player, and Nicki, a pop star, quickly turns into something much bigger, especially after Nicki’s life altering accident. I liked the idea of two people reconnecting while both are dealing with trauma, and I appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from tough topics like recovery, fear, and survivor’s guilt.

Marek was definitely the highlight for me. He falls hard and early, and his protectiveness and devotion felt genuine. I enjoyed seeing how much he wanted to take care of Nicki, even while juggling the pressure of his hockey career and his own unresolved trauma. Nicki’s struggles made sense given what she’d been through, but at times her hesitation and emotional distance felt repetitive, which slowed the story down for me.

Where the book lost a star was in the romance itself. The connection leaned heavily into insta love, and because of that, the relationship sometimes felt more surface level than deep. While the emotional moments were there, I wanted more development and buildup to really believe in their bond. Overall, this was a solid, readable hockey romance with heart and heat, but it didn’t fully stick with me. Fans of protective heroes and recovery stories will likely enjoy it more than I did.

[LM · Rating 4 out of 5]

On Thin Ice by Kelly Jamieson is a romance novel about an NHL hockey player and a pop star who feel an instant, intense connection—but the timing couldn’t be worse. Both are deeply committed to demanding careers. Marek plays for the New Jersey Storm, while Nikki is at the peak of her music career and based primarily in Los Angeles.

After they part ways, a year passes with only one-sided contact from Marek. When he learns about an accident involving Nikki, however, he rushes to her side. Nikki has never been one to ask for—or accept—help. Perfection has been ingrained in her from an early age, and vulnerability does not come easily. As she processes the trauma from the accident, she reluctantly allows Marek to care for her, slowly breaking down the walls she’s built around herself.

Despite everything, Nikki feels a strong obligation to return to her music as quickly as possible. Marek, though, is done pining from afar. For him, it’s all or nothing: she chooses to be with him, or he moves on. With an entire team depending on her, Nikki is left facing an impossible choice.

This novel is compelling and authentic in its exploration of love, trauma recovery, the illusion of perfection, and the importance of living in the present. I really enjoyed this book, and I’d like to thank Kelly Jamieson, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Justine Noble · Rating 4 out of 5]

On Thin Ice is one of those romance reads that sneaks up on you in the best way. What starts as a supposed one-night stand between Marek, a professional hockey player, and Nikki, a famous pop star, quickly turns into something neither of them expected: love at first sight.
Going into the story, Marek is painted as the typical player, someone who doesn’t do commitment. But as the pages turn, you realize just how wrong that assumption is. He falls hard and genuinely for Nikki, and it’s refreshing to watch that emotional shift unfold. Both characters carry heavy baggage from tragic moments in their careers, which adds real depth to their connection. Their shared mindset of you only live once makes the story feel raw, honest, and incredibly relatable.
What stood out most to me was how Marek cared for Nikki when she was at her lowest. The way he made her feel safe, supported, and truly seen is everything. At its core, this book reminds us that life won’t always be sunshine and rainbows, but how we navigate the hard moments, and who we choose to walk through them with, is what really matters.
This was such a heartwarming read with emotional depth, strong chemistry, and let’s be real… the spice was on a whole other level 🤏🏼🤏🏼🤏🏼🤣.

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won’t lie, this hurts. Nikki and Marek definitely have a lot between them. Work, distance, a year of wondering on both sides of the desire, and then some serious trauma. But when Nikki thinks she’s all alone in this and is losing herself, Marek is there to pull her out of her head. To remind her that there is purpose in her life, even now. And to help prod her to finding what she truly wants for herself and her future.

And honestly, Nikki does the same for Marek. While his sister helps both of them, they each have pain to work through and realities to face. The author doesn’t shy away from the very real survivor’s guilt, nor does she pretend that PTSD doesn’t exist. In fact, she makes an excellent case for why everyone needs someone by their side. Someone to lean on when it’s rough and to celebrate with when it’s going well. Someone who understands, or who can just empathize and help get to the root of the issue.

Luckily, both Marek and Nikki figure out their missteps quickly enough. They both do the work to heal, and they both find that they have the chance at a beautiful future together.

But I’m still wondering about two others going through a lot of pain. Maybe we’ll see some recovery for them in the future, too?

[cakecoffeeandbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marek and Nikki’s story- the ice hockey player and the pop star!
These 2 meet and get together at the All Star event and then lose contact for almost a year before a tragic and traumatic accident causes Marek to seek out Nikki again. She needs a safe place to land and he offers that. Whilst Nikki has been busy growing her career, he’s never gotten over the time they spent together. He’s also no stranger to trauma and recovery himself.

There are some heavy topics in this story and I’d recommend checking your triggers, but Kelly deals with them well, and with empathy- it’s clear she wants to do them justice.
Marek is head over heels for Nikki and all in from the start, but she is more hesitant and at times I found her a bit frustrating but I also understood why she behaved how she did. The way he loves and takes care of her is beautiful. I really hope we get Alfie and Ayla’s story next!

Thank you to the author, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC!

[Laced In Lit · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC 🩷
I wanted to love this one but something was off for me, I didnt love the writing style i found it a bit frustrating and didnt really fully connect with the main characters or the story on this one sorry 😐
Check TW - some heavy topics are covered - I do think they were covered well and with care 🫶
📚 Hockey star x pop star
📚 Traumatic past
📚 Spice starts early
📚 One night in Vegas
Marek and Nikki meet in Vegas whilst working together and despite her reservations about changing her routine they spend the night together. Marek cant stop thinking about Nikki but with their conflicting schedules they cant find the time to meet up again.
Nearly a year later there is a disaster at one of Nikkis concerts and Marek has had enough. He flies out to meet her but she is broken after recent events.
We hear as the pair try to heal eachother and fall for eachother all over again.

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

The hockey player and the rockstar!

Marek and Nikki were perfect for each other and I so wanted them to have a happily-ever-after. I felt so sorry for Nikki … the way she thought of herself being responsible for things that were beyond her control. And Marek is this hunky rock of a man who didn’t waiver in his protectiveness of Nikki. That alone melted my heart for him. This is a great addition to the series.

Marek and Nikki share a passionate night in Vegas and then go their separate ways. Months later, the roof collapses at one of Nikki’s concerts and people die. Nikki feels responsible. Marek is worried sick about her and when he shows up at her New York residence, he feels justified. He ends up taking her to his place so she can avoid the paparazzi surrounding her place. The more time they spend together, the more their feelings for one another develop … will they be able to keep it casual?

I received an ARC courtesy of Boldwood Books through NetGalley.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.

4.5 Stars
When I saw Kelly Jamieson was starting a new hockey series, I was excited. Her books are always filled with a gripping plot, two amazing characters, and a love story to swoon over. The only thing that bothered me about this book was that the start was more tell than show in the first chapter or so before Marek's interactions with Nicki started. Marek and Nicki were so sweet together. They had an instant connection that should have immediately blossomed into more, but it took them both a while to get their emotions in line with their actions. Nicki had something really stressful and tragic happen to her, and I loved how Marek was right there to support her. Overall, I loved reading this book and I’m happy Jamieson is giving us more hockey romance.

[HeadCanonHeadCase · Rating 3 out of 5]

Marek might be at the all-star game, but his real goal is to meet music star, Nicki Sullivan. They spend one night together only to go their separate ways. But one year later, after a tragedy leaves Nicki reeling, Marek knows he needs to be by her side.

Read if you like:
-Hockey Player x Mega Star
-He's Obsessed
-Insta-Love
-Protective/Caretaker MMC

I went back and forth on how to rate this. Nicki healing after tragedy on turn lead to extreme burn out? 5 stars. Marek's obsession with Nicki that bordered on creepy at a few points? 1 star. I think it's fair to say it averages out to a 3. There was a lot of good mental health rep in this book. Some sweet moments where he helps her through nightmares and surrounds her with love and support. I just wish they hadn't been accompanied by his obsession. It went just a bit too far beyond the 'he falls first' trope.

[ReneeReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The beginning of this book sets up a one night stand between Marek and Nicki and then tragedy strikes shortly thereafter. The two reconnect after the incident and end up sharing a lot of time together. They spend this time connecting as friends at first and they each reveal the trauma they have had to endure. Their relationship grows and becomes intimate but the healing isn't quite done yet. We do eventually get our HEA and by the time they find each other again, the wait is worth it. This book ended up being a bit deeper than I had originally thought it would and I really enjoyed it. Great hockey & Pop Star romance story.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Jansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marek and Nikki fall hard and fast, but their lives are messy and tragic. After an incredible night together, they fall out of touch. Marek vows to move on, but fails. Nikki is in an accident that shakes her to her core and is traumatized. Marek tracks her down out of worry and comforts her. She's trying to work through the trauma and he's falling deeper everyday. Nikki's journey is heartbreaking and when they aren't together, you feel it. Mabel's place in the story is perfect. I definitely need Carson and Ayla's story to break me.

[Paris Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of this book I just didn’t enjoy the insta love and the relationship felt very surface level. I liked how much Malek cared and tried to help Nikki as much as he could even though he was busy with hockey.

The fmc was dealing with trauma after an accident that occurred while she was on tour.

The MMC was trying to overcome the remaining trauma after an accident he had while playing hockey.

[Christie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've never read a hockey romance so I thought this would be a good chance to read one and see what the hype was.
Marek, an NHL player and Nikki, pop star, meet at an All Star game. There are sparks that turn into pure heat quickly. Due to trauma that both have experienced, the relationship becomes complicated. With help, they both navigate the relationship waters and make decisions that impact their futures.
Enjoyable, more than a sex romp, had real feeling and a nice ending.

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very thoughtful story that hit on a lot of feelings. The main character, Marek and Nickie were very easy to like and to root for as they developed a relationship in very difficult circumstances. Even though the main subject matter was heavy it was dealt in a respectful manner.