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IceHawks #1
Breaking Point
FAKE DATING, ICE HOCKEY, SPORTS ROMANCE
Hockey star Grayson Crawford is in hot water. Amidst grieving a family member, he can’t seem to pull his act together, threatening everything he’s worked so hard for—and the team he can’t live without. To clean up his image and prove he can change, he agrees to a PR relationship, but there’s only one woman he wants by his side.
Except, Bella Stratford couldn’t be a worse candidate. Only recently taking the role of his personal assistant to pay for her mother’s medical bills, she already has her hands full dodging puck bunnies and fixing Grayson’s messes. Not to mention her heart is under strict lock and key after life taught her that men cannot be trusted. But when her mother’s health gets worse, becoming Grayson’s fake girlfriend is the last solution left.
In public, they’re the perfect doting couple. In private, all those carefully drawn lines are beginning to blur. Because the shy, sweet man is not what she expected, and the guarded, caring woman just needs someone looking out for her. And with each stolen glance and tender kiss, their broken hearts might be starting to heal.
Hockey star Grayson Crawford is in hot water. Amidst grieving a family member, he can’t seem to pull his act together, threatening everything he’s worked so hard for—and the team he can’t live without. To clean up his image and prove he can change, he agrees to a PR relationship, but there’s only one woman he wants by his side.
Except, Bella Stratford couldn’t be a worse candidate. Only recently taking the role of his personal assistant to pay for her mother’s medical bills, she already has her hands full dodging puck bunnies and fixing Grayson’s messes. Not to mention her heart is under strict lock and key after life taught her that men cannot be trusted. But when her mother’s health gets worse, becoming Grayson’s fake girlfriend is the last solution left.
In public, they’re the perfect doting couple. In private, all those carefully drawn lines are beginning to blur. Because the shy, sweet man is not what she expected, and the guarded, caring woman just needs someone looking out for her. And with each stolen glance and tender kiss, their broken hearts might be starting to heal.
456 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
1929 people are currently reading
14798 people want to read
About the author
Mads Rafferty
8 books2,848 followersNever in a million years would I have thought my life would look like what it does today. If I told my younger self that I not only love to read but that I write books for a living … well let’s just say we would be attending her funeral. Books will forever hold a special place in my heart. At the age of nineteen, I immersed myself in the world of fiction and was lucky enough to be dragged out of a dark abyss. Books have been there for me through thick and thin, helping shape the person I am today and I hope for some, my books will do the same. In whatever capacity that may be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,419 reviews
September 7, 2025
6,000,000,000,000 STARS FOR THIS BOOK
I’m not writing the review yet but I don’t want someone to read this book because of me and think it’s happy and lighthearted so here are the triggers
TW: grief, heavy alcoholism, relapse of addiction, blood, death, one easily skippable spice scene around the 90% mark, and an intense hospital visit for the FMC
I’m not writing the review yet but I don’t want someone to read this book because of me and think it’s happy and lighthearted so here are the triggers
TW: grief, heavy alcoholism, relapse of addiction, blood, death, one easily skippable spice scene around the 90% mark, and an intense hospital visit for the FMC
September 19, 2025
“We've kissed more in private than in public. This has never just been a contract and you know it.”
ৎ⋆｡‧📖‧ 4.0★
── .✦ be aware of spoilers
𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴:
"(idfc - blackbear)"
0:09 ━●────────── 4:05
ㅤ ㅤ◁ㅤ ❚❚ ㅤ▷ ㅤ
full playlist for bella & graysonღ
↬ The title does not lie this was in fact my breaking point.
↬ one of three books that has made me actually cry to a point were I was like I don't want to keep reading because I physically can't handle this anymore.
↬ I don't really know what my rating was going to be but since it is already a big achievement that this book made me cry so much because I never really cry because of books, sometimes I shed a couple tears but never like the ugly type of cry and this book did so I will stick to four stars
↬ The reason that I am unsure about my rating is because Bella was kind of pissing me of. I don't know she was denying the fact that there was nothing real to their relationship and it was only 'fake' to a point where it got me pissed of to a point where I had to put the book down for a couple days because I just couldn't enjoy the book anymore makes me question if I actually liked it.
↬ Grayson is such a sweet heart and deserves a big hug honestly. I think I have a weak spot for mentally unstable guys because I always feel so bad... His drinking addiction was not good tho I definitively don't approve of that but I could see where he was coming from. And when he found out that Bella her mom was sick he did so many things for the both of them that there is no way I could hate him.
↬ I stopped at like 90% because I just didn't enjoy reading it anymore and I thought this was such a beautiful book that isn't entirely focused on the romance aspect but also serious problems you might deal with in real life and I wanted my review to be based on my actual feelings and in that moment I just could not find the right mind space to read it. LITTLE DID I KNOW I SAVED THE SADDEST PART EVER.
↬ I will never forgive Mads Rafferty for choosing to write about bella missing the death of her mom by 3 minutes. THREE FUCKING MINUTES. Did you know everything you write is optional? YOU DID NOT HAVE TO BREAK ME LIKE THAT. Ever since I dealt with the death of someone very close to me I have not been handeling deaths in books very well, BUT THIS ONE? It was some type of different breaking point the tears just kept coming and coming.
↬ AND THEN THOSE LETTERS?? What do you mean her mom wrote letters for all her important days so she would feel like her mom was with her in some type of way, CRYING, CRYING, BREAKING DOWN, MORE CRYING.
↬ I am not okay after reading this book but I do think you should read it.
── .✦ pre-read🏒⭑.ᐟ
⤿ prediction: 4.0 ★
FINALLY BUDDY READING AGAIN !!! with bestiebae hannah♡
⤿ make sure to also check out her review: hannah her beautiful review
I wanted to read this because of the cover but then I read it's a FAKE DATING and ICE HOCKEY ROMANCE!!?? If you know me, you know I ABSOLUTELY LOVE fake dating and ice hockey romance so I have high hopes -> I have no idea what it's about so it's going to be a full surprise
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
4⭐
Buddy read with bestie mar۶ৎ
⤿ Check out her review!!
⋆˚꩜｡ Thoughts:
This story was so well written! Not cringe (though nothing is ever 100% cringe free), some highlight-worthy quotes and I won't lie I did laugh out loud a few times 🙂↕️
I really disliked the assistant dynamic in behind the net but because of these characters' situations it felt relevant to the story and not cliche like, 'oh no I need a job asap, wow a well-paying assistant job for a hot hockey player 😱'.
Honestly, Bella was annoying at times but I really felt for her and everything she was going through. I just wanted to give her a hug 🫂 And Grayson!!! He was so thoughtful! He spent 4 hours sorting gummy bears for her (lowk insane but who am I to judge), he paid her mums medical bills and he founded an animal rescue shelter !
The mental health representation in this book is TOP TIER! It was gut-wrenching but relatable and oh my gosh did I sob. Make sure to check the TW’s <3
This book also has:
- AI hate 👏👏
- Chronic illness rep
- Found family 🥹
- Funny text messages
This really isn't relevant at all but I did NOT vibe with the nickname. I understand the sentiment and the metaphor but every time he called her 'blaze' I pictured the monster truck 😭
My only critique is the last 15% & the ending felt rushed. I think because there were SO many things going on that were being wrapped up back to back. Lots of emotional plot lines that did have a big impact (as I said, I SOBBED) but could’ve been even more emotional if there was time between each point in the story for the reader to fully process and FEEL for the characters. Instead it wrapped up within like 5 chapters and the reader has no time to just...cry. And then it’s over, you’re reading the epilogue and the words ‘the end’.
Besides that, this book was so romantic and entertaining! Thank you Mar for reading this with me, I had so much fun 🫶🏻
Buddy read with bestie mar۶ৎ
⤿ Check out her review!!
⋆˚꩜｡ Thoughts:
This story was so well written! Not cringe (though nothing is ever 100% cringe free), some highlight-worthy quotes and I won't lie I did laugh out loud a few times 🙂↕️
I really disliked the assistant dynamic in behind the net but because of these characters' situations it felt relevant to the story and not cliche like, 'oh no I need a job asap, wow a well-paying assistant job for a hot hockey player 😱'.
Honestly, Bella was annoying at times but I really felt for her and everything she was going through. I just wanted to give her a hug 🫂 And Grayson!!! He was so thoughtful! He spent 4 hours sorting gummy bears for her (lowk insane but who am I to judge), he paid her mums medical bills and he founded an animal rescue shelter !
The mental health representation in this book is TOP TIER! It was gut-wrenching but relatable and oh my gosh did I sob. Make sure to check the TW’s <3
This book also has:
- AI hate 👏👏
- Chronic illness rep
- Found family 🥹
- Funny text messages
This really isn't relevant at all but I did NOT vibe with the nickname. I understand the sentiment and the metaphor but every time he called her 'blaze' I pictured the monster truck 😭
My only critique is the last 15% & the ending felt rushed. I think because there were SO many things going on that were being wrapped up back to back. Lots of emotional plot lines that did have a big impact (as I said, I SOBBED) but could’ve been even more emotional if there was time between each point in the story for the reader to fully process and FEEL for the characters. Instead it wrapped up within like 5 chapters and the reader has no time to just...cry. And then it’s over, you’re reading the epilogue and the words ‘the end’.
Besides that, this book was so romantic and entertaining! Thank you Mar for reading this with me, I had so much fun 🫶🏻
September 22, 2025
I really wanted to like this but it was so poorly executed. There were so many issues talked about in the book but none of them were properly executed. Endometriosis, OCD, cancer, grief, lupus, alcoholism. There was potential for it to be done well but it sadly wasn’t. And the romance for the most part was insta lovey and boring in my opinion.
The thing that bugged me the most was Grayson being a boardaline alcoholic at the start and then agreeing to go to AA meetings and it was just never talked about again and even when he relapsed he just got better the next day?
I just feel like this would have been so much better if the author only focused on one or two issues and properly executed them. But that’s just my opinion !!!
The thing that bugged me the most was Grayson being a boardaline alcoholic at the start and then agreeing to go to AA meetings and it was just never talked about again and even when he relapsed he just got better the next day?
I just feel like this would have been so much better if the author only focused on one or two issues and properly executed them. But that’s just my opinion !!!
July 28, 2025
my rating: ★★★★★
aesthetic: 🏒⛸️🎨🖼️🦮🩺🏥🎡🥃❤️🩹🌳
Breaking Point by Mads Rafferty is a beautifully layered romance that perfectly blends emotional depth, playful banter, and magnetic chemistry. Set against the fast-paced, high-pressure world of professional hockey, this assistant x boss romance strikes every chord with precision and heart.
Both main characters are carrying trauma from their pasts, and it’s through their unexpected connection—first professional, then deeply personal—that we witness the slow, transformative power of healing. Their journey isn’t rushed. It’s tender, raw, and authentic, making every emotional beat feel earned. I found myself smiling through their banter one moment and wiping away tears the next.
Mads Rafferty has a way of writing romance that is fun and flirty without losing its emotional punch. There’s real pain behind the characters’ facades, and the way they show up for each other—despite their fears, flaws, and vulnerabilities—is what makes this book so deeply moving. It’s a story of redemption, trust, and finding hope in the most unexpected places.
If you’re a fan of sports romance with heart, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and characters who feel achingly real, Breaking Point will absolutely hit the mark. I’m so glad I got to experience this early—it’s one of those stories that stays with you.
aesthetic: 🏒⛸️🎨🖼️🦮🩺🏥🎡🥃❤️🩹🌳
Breaking Point by Mads Rafferty is a beautifully layered romance that perfectly blends emotional depth, playful banter, and magnetic chemistry. Set against the fast-paced, high-pressure world of professional hockey, this assistant x boss romance strikes every chord with precision and heart.
Both main characters are carrying trauma from their pasts, and it’s through their unexpected connection—first professional, then deeply personal—that we witness the slow, transformative power of healing. Their journey isn’t rushed. It’s tender, raw, and authentic, making every emotional beat feel earned. I found myself smiling through their banter one moment and wiping away tears the next.
Mads Rafferty has a way of writing romance that is fun and flirty without losing its emotional punch. There’s real pain behind the characters’ facades, and the way they show up for each other—despite their fears, flaws, and vulnerabilities—is what makes this book so deeply moving. It’s a story of redemption, trust, and finding hope in the most unexpected places.
If you’re a fan of sports romance with heart, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and characters who feel achingly real, Breaking Point will absolutely hit the mark. I’m so glad I got to experience this early—it’s one of those stories that stays with you.
July 17, 2025
Five stars isn’t enough.
This has got to be one of the most beautiful books I have probably ever read.
I did not get what I was expecting out of this book…it was so so much more!
It was so heartbreaking, gut wrenching and devastating while simultaneously being so romantic, sweet and filled with the most perfect characters ever.
I will not say a THING that would even remotely hint to the path this book goes on and follows because I promise you, you need to read this book and experience it for yourself.
If I didn’t believe in love before I read this, I’d be a convert.
Grayson is the epitome of perfect boyfriend material and is the sweetest cinnamon roll who was so beyond perfect for Bella.
I will think about this book daily and it will live in me for a long time to come.
This has got to be one of the most beautiful books I have probably ever read.
I did not get what I was expecting out of this book…it was so so much more!
It was so heartbreaking, gut wrenching and devastating while simultaneously being so romantic, sweet and filled with the most perfect characters ever.
I will not say a THING that would even remotely hint to the path this book goes on and follows because I promise you, you need to read this book and experience it for yourself.
If I didn’t believe in love before I read this, I’d be a convert.
Grayson is the epitome of perfect boyfriend material and is the sweetest cinnamon roll who was so beyond perfect for Bella.
I will think about this book daily and it will live in me for a long time to come.
November 5, 2025
for a book about grief, this book has no depth! dnf at page 52
September 4, 2025
4☆
“Because you’re the blazing fire that rekindled life within my heart, and I never want your flame to be extinguished.”
oh, i ate this one up. chefs kiss.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
two relatable characters, a story that felt natural. while their connection started as the assistant to the hockey player. it quickly turned into her being his fake girlfriend, but that only lasted so long. they couldn’t deny their feelings for one another. mostly grayson.
grayson and bella are two precious souls who find one another at the right time, when they truly needed the comfort of someone who just understood what the other was feeling. she was the one who motivated him to turn his life around before it was too late and he was th one who managed to get her to open her heart up again after being burned.
a man who’s good with animals? a man who spends time with your ill mother? reads to her? sets her up with an audible account so she can listen to her favorite thrillers? helps her write letters for the days she won’t be there? that’s a man after my own heart. he was perfect .
grayson, my love, welcome to my long list of favorite book boyfriends.
── .✦
so worth the read. i felt every emotion you could imagine. ps: he gave her the cutest nickname ever. blaze.
this story has a lot of heavy topics, ranging from, battling chronic illnesses, grief, alcoholism, and more. please check the trigger warnings.
“Because you’re the blazing fire that rekindled life within my heart, and I never want your flame to be extinguished.”
oh, i ate this one up. chefs kiss.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
two relatable characters, a story that felt natural. while their connection started as the assistant to the hockey player. it quickly turned into her being his fake girlfriend, but that only lasted so long. they couldn’t deny their feelings for one another. mostly grayson.
grayson and bella are two precious souls who find one another at the right time, when they truly needed the comfort of someone who just understood what the other was feeling. she was the one who motivated him to turn his life around before it was too late and he was th one who managed to get her to open her heart up again after being burned.
a man who’s good with animals? a man who spends time with your ill mother? reads to her? sets her up with an audible account so she can listen to her favorite thrillers? helps her write letters for the days she won’t be there? that’s a man after my own heart. he was perfect .
grayson, my love, welcome to my long list of favorite book boyfriends.
── .✦
so worth the read. i felt every emotion you could imagine. ps: he gave her the cutest nickname ever. blaze.
this story has a lot of heavy topics, ranging from, battling chronic illnesses, grief, alcoholism, and more. please check the trigger warnings.
Read
November 13, 2025⋆𐙚₊˚⊹♡ Dnf at 62%
Okay it started off really well and i actually enjoyed it despite my slump. And the tension between the two main characters was sooo good but after a while everything just started to get really cringy, just the way they were thinking and the way the friends group was talking. It all got really painful, and i was going to keep reading for the tension between them but eventually i just didn’t pick it up anymore and also because i was really busy and didn’t have much time, so i have decided to put it off right now.
Okay it started off really well and i actually enjoyed it despite my slump. And the tension between the two main characters was sooo good but after a while everything just started to get really cringy, just the way they were thinking and the way the friends group was talking. It all got really painful, and i was going to keep reading for the tension between them but eventually i just didn’t pick it up anymore and also because i was really busy and didn’t have much time, so i have decided to put it off right now.
July 18, 2025
♾️⭐️ (kindle)
I can’t believe I had the absolute privilege to read the ARC of this incredibly beautifully written book 🥹😭 right from the got go it had my heart strings being pulled and let’s say I was left crying at my desk at work 😭😭
There’s so many perfect aspects throughout this series that I could honestly spend hours talking about! That’s just how good this book is! Starting with Bella and Grayson! 😍 you can literally feel the tension and chemistry between these two!!!!! I was literally squealing like a high schooler, I was feeling like Layla!
I actually think this could be my top read for the year! I can’t get over how amazing this book is and I can’t wait for it to come out so others can experience it!
Mads you have absolutely nailed it! You should be so proud and I cannot wait for more! 🫶🏻🥹
I can’t believe I had the absolute privilege to read the ARC of this incredibly beautifully written book 🥹😭 right from the got go it had my heart strings being pulled and let’s say I was left crying at my desk at work 😭😭
There’s so many perfect aspects throughout this series that I could honestly spend hours talking about! That’s just how good this book is! Starting with Bella and Grayson! 😍 you can literally feel the tension and chemistry between these two!!!!! I was literally squealing like a high schooler, I was feeling like Layla!
I actually think this could be my top read for the year! I can’t get over how amazing this book is and I can’t wait for it to come out so others can experience it!
Mads you have absolutely nailed it! You should be so proud and I cannot wait for more! 🫶🏻🥹
August 29, 2025
This is going to have to be a DNF at 32% for me. I really wanted to like this but the insta lust/love is CRAZY. Literally on their second meeting he is telling her he feels like she is the only person he can be himself around and still breathe. Then they’re writing incredibly flirty notes to eachother after two meetings, despite the second one really not going well. It felt like it came out of nowhere.
If you don’t mind the insta love/lust then you will probably enjoy this, but it’s just really not for me.
If you don’t mind the insta love/lust then you will probably enjoy this, but it’s just really not for me.
January 2, 2026
OMG, I need to scream about Grayson! This man had me absolutely swooning. I was blushing, kicking my feet, giggling, and crying because his love for Bella was just so perfect. From the moment he saw her, he knew she was his dream girl! Grayson's jealous side , his protectiveness, and the way he wanted to provide for Bella had me in a total chokehold. He was so set on Bella being his fake girlfriend, wanting no one else because she was his blaze 🥹
I loved how Bella was scared to tell Grayson about her mom, but he ended up being the best person she could have confided in! The way he instantly cared for Bella’s mom, reading to her, and getting her that Audible subscription with all her favorite books? Are you kidding me?! It was the sweetest thing ever. Also, Bella took a long time to confess her feelings, but I understood why. Grayson was so patient and never made her uncomfortable, always putting his feelings aside. It was so heartwarming. He was a real true lover boy 🖤
I loved how Bella was scared to tell Grayson about her mom, but he ended up being the best person she could have confided in! The way he instantly cared for Bella’s mom, reading to her, and getting her that Audible subscription with all her favorite books? Are you kidding me?! It was the sweetest thing ever. Also, Bella took a long time to confess her feelings, but I understood why. Grayson was so patient and never made her uncomfortable, always putting his feelings aside. It was so heartwarming. He was a real true lover boy 🖤
August 23, 2025
4.5⭐️ this was everything and more!! the perfect slow burn fake dating ice hockey romance. golden retriever hockey player x black cat fmc. everything about this was beautiful, emotional and so filled with love. there wasn’t a single part of this book where i was bored, i was so invested the whole time, the slow burn was perfection, the characters were so beautifully written with so much depth to them. the perfect mix of fun and cute with tension, trauma and emotional scenes that left me crying for hours, thank you for such a beautiful story
⛸️🎨🦮🥃🏥🏒📖❤️🩹🐾🧁🪴
⛸️🎨🦮🥃🏥🏒📖❤️🩹🐾🧁🪴
October 10, 2025
It just kept being dragged out and the rating kept going lower and lower the more it went on
July 29, 2025
My ARC REVIEW!!⭐️🫶🏽
Listen…. Idk where to start! Did I finish the book or did it finish me??? Grayson and Bella are perfection! Beautifully written! Amazing plot! And don’t get me started on the instant love but also slow burn!? The heart felt love being portrayed between all the main characters is so wholesome and amazing! I felt as if I was there apart of their world!
The feelings and things are So hard to put into a book! Mads you did your thing babes💓💓⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Listen…. Idk where to start! Did I finish the book or did it finish me??? Grayson and Bella are perfection! Beautifully written! Amazing plot! And don’t get me started on the instant love but also slow burn!? The heart felt love being portrayed between all the main characters is so wholesome and amazing! I felt as if I was there apart of their world!
The feelings and things are So hard to put into a book! Mads you did your thing babes💓💓⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 18, 2025
4.5 stars - this book was AMAZING! I literally read it in 24 hours (and I worked a 8hr shift) I could not put this down it was so addictive. The characters were so well written I wanted more after every chapter. The way it touched on grief and loss was so well done, it’s beautiful and heartbreaking and i loved every second of it.
August 28, 2025
I have a rule that if I cry— it’s an immediate 5 stars, so thank you for the tears
September 6, 2025
ugh it was good but I’ve already forgot everyone’s names
December 13, 2025
I want to thank Mads Rafferty for supplying me with an ARC copy of 'Breaking Point' in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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This is my second time having received an ARC copy of one of Mads' books, and once again it is another 5 stars!!!
Such a beautiful story was created, touching on themes such as cancer, grief, death, OCD, endometriosis, and alcoholism. Each one I felt was executed thoroughly and addressed gently.
Bella was such a wholesome, caring character. She did everything she could to support her mother, never putting herself first. She did the same for her best friend, Layla. She was so selfless and hardworking, all while struggling with OCD and endometriosis.
Grayson had what felt like the world on his shoulders, trying to be there for his team, all while dealing with grief from the loss of a family member and the alcoholism that came with it. With time, he persevered, started working on himself and changed for the better. He dealt with his emotions and loss and learned how to live and move on.
Grayson and Bella were what each other needed, and they helped each other with personal struggles. Bella helped Grayson with his grief and alcohol addiction, while Grayson helped Bella with her mother and showing that not all men were like her father. That men could treat women the way they deserved. He made her feel loved and wanted and seen and cared for.
Their slow build-up, going from strangers to friends to lovers, was executed beautifully, and made for a wholesome, emotional and relatable story.
I'm excited to see where Mads takes this series, and am intrigued by the synopsis of the second book, 'Fighting Chance', which comes out early 2026!! I hope I can earn the privilege of receiving an ARC copy, like I have been so thankful to have received this one 🥹
Thank you again, Mads Rafferty, for giving me the privilege to read your book in exchange for an honest review. You have become one of my favourite Authors, and as a fellow Australian girly, I love seeing you succeed. You will forever have my support!! 🫶🏼
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This is my second time having received an ARC copy of one of Mads' books, and once again it is another 5 stars!!!
Such a beautiful story was created, touching on themes such as cancer, grief, death, OCD, endometriosis, and alcoholism. Each one I felt was executed thoroughly and addressed gently.
Bella was such a wholesome, caring character. She did everything she could to support her mother, never putting herself first. She did the same for her best friend, Layla. She was so selfless and hardworking, all while struggling with OCD and endometriosis.
Grayson had what felt like the world on his shoulders, trying to be there for his team, all while dealing with grief from the loss of a family member and the alcoholism that came with it. With time, he persevered, started working on himself and changed for the better. He dealt with his emotions and loss and learned how to live and move on.
Grayson and Bella were what each other needed, and they helped each other with personal struggles. Bella helped Grayson with his grief and alcohol addiction, while Grayson helped Bella with her mother and showing that not all men were like her father. That men could treat women the way they deserved. He made her feel loved and wanted and seen and cared for.
Their slow build-up, going from strangers to friends to lovers, was executed beautifully, and made for a wholesome, emotional and relatable story.
I'm excited to see where Mads takes this series, and am intrigued by the synopsis of the second book, 'Fighting Chance', which comes out early 2026!! I hope I can earn the privilege of receiving an ARC copy, like I have been so thankful to have received this one 🥹
Thank you again, Mads Rafferty, for giving me the privilege to read your book in exchange for an honest review. You have become one of my favourite Authors, and as a fellow Australian girly, I love seeing you succeed. You will forever have my support!! 🫶🏼
July 27, 2025
I am grateful to have received this ARC from the author for review. As always, all thoughts & feelings are my own.
This story was both heartbreaking & insanely touching at the same time. We have our FMC, Bella, who is in the incredibly tough position of caring for her terminally ill mother after her father left them & our grieving MMC, Grayson, who feels immense guilt after the passing of a loved one. Bella comes to work for Grayson & the pair fall into fake dating situation to help Grayson repair his image. I thought the fake dating trope was a fantastic vessel for the pair (mostly Bella) to overcome their reservations about their feelings. The tension building throughout the book was fantastic with just one really well done spicy scene, but many moments of heat leading up to it. The black cat x grumpy sunshine trope is always a favourite of mine, I really appreciate the author showing us how Grayson allows space for Bella’s emotions & compulsions, supporting her with many aspects of her life to allow her to be soft and caring towards him. I loved Bella’s support of Grayson’s sobriety journey, and the way that Grayson battled his emotional turmoil and his desire to maintain his captaincy. The author did a fantastic job of portraying the various family dynamics as well as a fun, found family aspect within Grayson’s hockey team. And of course, a puppy feature. This was a well balanced sports romance, reminiscent of Icebreaker (only with more tears) and the Deal by Elle Kennedy. If you like a love at first sight, fake dating, grumpy x sunshine story, this one will be for you!
This story was both heartbreaking & insanely touching at the same time. We have our FMC, Bella, who is in the incredibly tough position of caring for her terminally ill mother after her father left them & our grieving MMC, Grayson, who feels immense guilt after the passing of a loved one. Bella comes to work for Grayson & the pair fall into fake dating situation to help Grayson repair his image. I thought the fake dating trope was a fantastic vessel for the pair (mostly Bella) to overcome their reservations about their feelings. The tension building throughout the book was fantastic with just one really well done spicy scene, but many moments of heat leading up to it. The black cat x grumpy sunshine trope is always a favourite of mine, I really appreciate the author showing us how Grayson allows space for Bella’s emotions & compulsions, supporting her with many aspects of her life to allow her to be soft and caring towards him. I loved Bella’s support of Grayson’s sobriety journey, and the way that Grayson battled his emotional turmoil and his desire to maintain his captaincy. The author did a fantastic job of portraying the various family dynamics as well as a fun, found family aspect within Grayson’s hockey team. And of course, a puppy feature. This was a well balanced sports romance, reminiscent of Icebreaker (only with more tears) and the Deal by Elle Kennedy. If you like a love at first sight, fake dating, grumpy x sunshine story, this one will be for you!
September 8, 2025
Fake dating plus ice hockey? Absolute chaos in the best way. The banter was top-tier, the romance had me smiling like an idiot, and the whole thing was so fast-paced and fun I didn’t want to put it down. Total feel-good vibes from start to finish.
July 16, 2025
Wow—this book was one I didn’t know I needed until I turned the first page. It completely surprised me in the best way possible. From the very beginning, I was drawn in by the emotional depth, the relatable characters, and the beautifully written slow-burn romance that had me hooked all the way through.
The author did an incredible job of weaving heavy, personal themes into the storyline in a way that felt raw and honest, without ever feeling overwhelming or forced. It added so much substance and made the characters’ journeys feel incredibly real. I found myself connecting deeply with each of them, and by the end, they felt like people I actually knew and cared about.
The slow-burn romance was perfection—it built naturally and never rushed, allowing the tension and chemistry to grow in such a satisfying way. And it wasn’t just the main romance that stood out; every character brought something unique to the story, and I truly enjoyed seeing how their dynamics played out.
I honestly cannot wait for the next installment. I’m already so curious to see which character will be at the center of the next book. If it’s anything like this one, I know I’ll be absolutely obsessed. Highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys romance with real emotional weight and well-developed characters.
The author did an incredible job of weaving heavy, personal themes into the storyline in a way that felt raw and honest, without ever feeling overwhelming or forced. It added so much substance and made the characters’ journeys feel incredibly real. I found myself connecting deeply with each of them, and by the end, they felt like people I actually knew and cared about.
The slow-burn romance was perfection—it built naturally and never rushed, allowing the tension and chemistry to grow in such a satisfying way. And it wasn’t just the main romance that stood out; every character brought something unique to the story, and I truly enjoyed seeing how their dynamics played out.
I honestly cannot wait for the next installment. I’m already so curious to see which character will be at the center of the next book. If it’s anything like this one, I know I’ll be absolutely obsessed. Highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys romance with real emotional weight and well-developed characters.
December 31, 2025
3.5
i enjoyed this more than i expected i would. it requires some suspension of disbelief when it comes to the whole fake dating thing (when there's a hard expiration date, do you seriously think people won't get suspicious if you conveniently break up EXACTLY then??), but bella and grayson were cute. there was always respect and care between them and a clear communication about boundaries and expectations.
this book is very, very heavy on grief. especially anticipatory grief. people deal with it differently—some make preparations, others shut down, and others are in denial. i think that subject was handled with empathy, which you don't commonly see in romances where the focus is usually elsewhere (namely, the relationship). it takes a delicate balance to make sure every aspect is being handled carefully, and i think this book did a good job with that. however, the OCD aspect was sort of... forgotten halfway through the book. though it came back with a vengeance around the end of the book, we never saw much of how it impacted bella throughout the book besides then and its first mention.
overall, it's a good book. you know i'm partial to good portrayals of grief in books, and that's where this book really shined for me.
i enjoyed this more than i expected i would. it requires some suspension of disbelief when it comes to the whole fake dating thing (when there's a hard expiration date, do you seriously think people won't get suspicious if you conveniently break up EXACTLY then??), but bella and grayson were cute. there was always respect and care between them and a clear communication about boundaries and expectations.
this book is very, very heavy on grief. especially anticipatory grief. people deal with it differently—some make preparations, others shut down, and others are in denial. i think that subject was handled with empathy, which you don't commonly see in romances where the focus is usually elsewhere (namely, the relationship). it takes a delicate balance to make sure every aspect is being handled carefully, and i think this book did a good job with that. however, the OCD aspect was sort of... forgotten halfway through the book. though it came back with a vengeance around the end of the book, we never saw much of how it impacted bella throughout the book besides then and its first mention.
overall, it's a good book. you know i'm partial to good portrayals of grief in books, and that's where this book really shined for me.
October 17, 2025
mads, i’m sending you my therapy bill😭
this was such a beautiful story that I related to in MANY different ways. I think this is my favorite book Mads has written yet and I cannot wait for more of this series.🦮🤍
this was such a beautiful story that I related to in MANY different ways. I think this is my favorite book Mads has written yet and I cannot wait for more of this series.🦮🤍
July 28, 2025
5 stars does not do this book justice, this book was so beautifully written and full of emotion and passion and LOVE. I will never stop recommending this book and I’m so thankful I was able to read this arc 🩷
July 16, 2025
i was able to ARC read this (thank you mads!). i ate this book up. i love grayson and bella, i loved their chemistry. i love how well mads handled the topics in this book. this book had me laughing and then crying at times (also where do i send the therapy bill because that ending😭) i 100% recommend!
July 27, 2025
Received as an arc read! Absolutely loved it!!!! Such a beautiful story with such amazing characters. Probably the best character writing I’ve read in a long time!
August 1, 2025
Had the absolute pleasure of reading this as an arc! It was such a beautiful story.
The yearning and slow burn 🔥
The way grief was handled in this story was so real and heartbreaking ❤️🩹
Bella and Grayson’s story was amazing and I can’t recommend it enough. This got me out of my ice hockey slump. Grayson has set some pretty high standards!
The yearning and slow burn 🔥
The way grief was handled in this story was so real and heartbreaking ❤️🩹
Bella and Grayson’s story was amazing and I can’t recommend it enough. This got me out of my ice hockey slump. Grayson has set some pretty high standards!
October 22, 2025
❤️🩹😭
6⭐️
What a crazy whirlwind of a ride this book was. I truly did not know what to expect. This is a beautifully written romance story and even though the book is heavily influenced by emotion and grief, there is a perfect balance of banter that trickles through.
Assistant x boss x fake dating is probably one of my new favourite tropes. The yearning was intense and oh wow did Mads give us a slooooooooooooooooow burn. Whilst both main characters are facing some form of heart breaking grief/trauma, their relationship develops gracefully. Bella allows Grayson time and space - not judging him on his grieving for his brothers death and coping through alcoholism - and Grayson supports Bella and her journey with her mums illness - holding her hand when needed and providing a shoulder whenever possible. Their chemistry is not forced, in fact it is like pulling teeth to try and get them to kiss and when they get close? of course, someone walks in! Their fake dating life is fun and flirty, whilst their realities are anything but. I cried so much reading this. It really is written from the perspective of "you may grieve but my god, please live".
I have no other notes to say other than my heart ACHES for these characters and even though I finished the book almost a week ago, I am still yearning for more! I cannot wait for Kieran and Layla's storyline, I am storing my tears Mads, don't let me down!
6⭐️
What a crazy whirlwind of a ride this book was. I truly did not know what to expect. This is a beautifully written romance story and even though the book is heavily influenced by emotion and grief, there is a perfect balance of banter that trickles through.
Assistant x boss x fake dating is probably one of my new favourite tropes. The yearning was intense and oh wow did Mads give us a slooooooooooooooooow burn. Whilst both main characters are facing some form of heart breaking grief/trauma, their relationship develops gracefully. Bella allows Grayson time and space - not judging him on his grieving for his brothers death and coping through alcoholism - and Grayson supports Bella and her journey with her mums illness - holding her hand when needed and providing a shoulder whenever possible. Their chemistry is not forced, in fact it is like pulling teeth to try and get them to kiss and when they get close? of course, someone walks in! Their fake dating life is fun and flirty, whilst their realities are anything but. I cried so much reading this. It really is written from the perspective of "you may grieve but my god, please live".
I have no other notes to say other than my heart ACHES for these characters and even though I finished the book almost a week ago, I am still yearning for more! I cannot wait for Kieran and Layla's storyline, I am storing my tears Mads, don't let me down!
November 8, 2025
»You're my girlfriend. Fake or not, Bella, to the world you're my girl and until that day ends, I will treat you as such.«
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑩𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
She is strong, independent and sassy. I really liked her!
❥ 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒔𝒐𝒏 ⋆✮
He‘s the definition of golden retriever mmc. I adored him!
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
This was such a good book, I can‘t believe it. I devoured this story and loved every single page. This is the perfect mixture of funny, deep and wholesome. The writing style is good and easy to understand. The pages just flew by and I had a good time with this book. It‘s so much more than a hockey romance. There is a lot of grief and healing which was written well. It was emotional and I lost some tears here and there.
Bella and Grayson are a perfect match. It was heartwarming to read how they interact with each other. Both are instantly attracted to each other but don‘t act according to their feelings. It‘s a well written slow burn with great tension and a good depth of character.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I hope we will get Laylas story as well!
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 5/5
spice: 1/5
humor: 5/5
couple/tension: 5/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ₊ ⊹
sports romance, forced proximity, ice hockey captain x personal assistant, instant attraction, workplace romance, fake dating, golden retriever mmc, possessive and protective hero, healing & grief, slow burn
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑩𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
She is strong, independent and sassy. I really liked her!
❥ 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒔𝒐𝒏 ⋆✮
He‘s the definition of golden retriever mmc. I adored him!
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
This was such a good book, I can‘t believe it. I devoured this story and loved every single page. This is the perfect mixture of funny, deep and wholesome. The writing style is good and easy to understand. The pages just flew by and I had a good time with this book. It‘s so much more than a hockey romance. There is a lot of grief and healing which was written well. It was emotional and I lost some tears here and there.
Bella and Grayson are a perfect match. It was heartwarming to read how they interact with each other. Both are instantly attracted to each other but don‘t act according to their feelings. It‘s a well written slow burn with great tension and a good depth of character.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I hope we will get Laylas story as well!
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 5/5
spice: 1/5
humor: 5/5
couple/tension: 5/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ₊ ⊹
sports romance, forced proximity, ice hockey captain x personal assistant, instant attraction, workplace romance, fake dating, golden retriever mmc, possessive and protective hero, healing & grief, slow burn
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