What do you think?
Rate this book
The Games We Play
Hearts on Ice
I’ve stopped pucks my whole career. What I can’t stop… is wanting him.
Drew
Six years ago, I buried my heart with my wife and daughter. Since then, I’ve lived by one rule—keep it professional, keep it safe.
But the kid in the net? He’s wrecking my rules one save at a time.
Miguel plays with heart. Reads the ice like it’s poetry. Sees me in ways no one has in years.
He’s too young. Too alive. Too off-limits.
And every time he smiles, I start to wonder if what I buried wasn’t just love—maybe it was who I am.
Miguel
Drew is discipline in a gray hoodie and heartbreak in human form.
I never thought I’d fall for anyone—especially not a man.
But something about him makes the rules blur and the air between us catch fire.
Every look is a risk. Every touch, a line we shouldn’t cross.
Some loves break the rules.
This one remakes them.
Hearts on Ice is a forbidden MM hockey romance with age gap tension, double bi-awakening, slow burn heat, and enough hurt/comfort to break your heart before putting it back together.
The Games We Play—Season 2 is the second season of this multi-author minor-league hockey romance series! All titles run concurrently through the same hockey season and the books can be read in any order, so jump in anywhere!
Drew
Six years ago, I buried my heart with my wife and daughter. Since then, I’ve lived by one rule—keep it professional, keep it safe.
But the kid in the net? He’s wrecking my rules one save at a time.
Miguel plays with heart. Reads the ice like it’s poetry. Sees me in ways no one has in years.
He’s too young. Too alive. Too off-limits.
And every time he smiles, I start to wonder if what I buried wasn’t just love—maybe it was who I am.
Miguel
Drew is discipline in a gray hoodie and heartbreak in human form.
I never thought I’d fall for anyone—especially not a man.
But something about him makes the rules blur and the air between us catch fire.
Every look is a risk. Every touch, a line we shouldn’t cross.
Some loves break the rules.
This one remakes them.
Hearts on Ice is a forbidden MM hockey romance with age gap tension, double bi-awakening, slow burn heat, and enough hurt/comfort to break your heart before putting it back together.
The Games We Play—Season 2 is the second season of this multi-author minor-league hockey romance series! All titles run concurrently through the same hockey season and the books can be read in any order, so jump in anywhere!
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2025
27 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 12, 2025
5 stars
Sweet intimate story of two people finding love and happiness in each other.
Drew has been the Coach of the LA Grizzlies for 5 years. The year before signing up with them was a hockey player recovering from an injury and mourning the loss of his beloved wife and daughter at the same time. Miguel is a goalie for the Grizzlies, living a simple life, always doing his best hoping to get called up to the NHL.
Drew and Miguel have been working with each other since Drew arrived to the team, but his relationship has always been Coach/player. Lately though, the respect they always felt for each other started turning into something more: they both craved each other's company, they felt the need to be closer and to get to know one another better.
They're both wonderful men who needed to get at the point of their lives when they were ready for more. Drew finally faces his grief without holding back anymore, while Miguel is tired of waiting for a call that could never come and wants a partner, someone to come home to, someone to be his family.
Their love story is simple, intimate and preciouos. It's the first time for both of them with a same sex relationship and there's also the fact that they should not cross the boundaries of their jobs.
But love is stronger, thankfully, and they work bravely for their HEA.
The epilogue is so very sweet and perfect.
Definitely recommended.
Sweet intimate story of two people finding love and happiness in each other.
Drew has been the Coach of the LA Grizzlies for 5 years. The year before signing up with them was a hockey player recovering from an injury and mourning the loss of his beloved wife and daughter at the same time. Miguel is a goalie for the Grizzlies, living a simple life, always doing his best hoping to get called up to the NHL.
Drew and Miguel have been working with each other since Drew arrived to the team, but his relationship has always been Coach/player. Lately though, the respect they always felt for each other started turning into something more: they both craved each other's company, they felt the need to be closer and to get to know one another better.
They're both wonderful men who needed to get at the point of their lives when they were ready for more. Drew finally faces his grief without holding back anymore, while Miguel is tired of waiting for a call that could never come and wants a partner, someone to come home to, someone to be his family.
Their love story is simple, intimate and preciouos. It's the first time for both of them with a same sex relationship and there's also the fact that they should not cross the boundaries of their jobs.
But love is stronger, thankfully, and they work bravely for their HEA.
The epilogue is so very sweet and perfect.
Definitely recommended.
November 27, 2025
Love grows in the quiet times.
I enjoyed this gentle romance between a hockey goalie and his team’s coach.
It’s a calm read, mostly low angst for the couple, and has a foundation of hockey knowledge and layers of family and teamwork that supports the story, giving it resonance. It’s rather slow-paced but honors grief and new developing feelings in turn, Coach Drew (40) coming out of that dark place and looking around and realizing life is here, it’s happening, and it’s time to accept the gift it’s holding out to him.
The gift is Miguel (28), a talented goalie who never received the call to the Show but whose focus and professionalism anchor their farm team.
Miguel and Drew have been coach and player for years and never thought of each other romantically, until the night Drew sees Miguel perform and their eyes meet…and they start to see each other in a new way. Their professional relationship morphs into a friendship with an underlying tension that simmers into attraction, something neither expected but both are open to exploring. It’s a dual bi-awakening that feels like a lovely “finding your person, gender doesn’t matter” situation. Once they start looking, they start wondering, and then yearning, until it explodes in an incendiary kiss, and they never look back.
Drew has worked through grief to the point that he’s waking to life again. Miguel is open to connection and surprised to find it with his coach. They become friends and then lovers, and it’s a sort of slice of life feeling journey. They’re hiding the relationship, but at the same time, not filled with anxiety about anyone finding out. They just…enjoy. And all is well.
It might sound boring, but, it’s a soothing read with beautiful moments, so if you’re looking for a respite from drama and a story that remains focused on the developing romance, with some authentic hockey along the way, this is a good one. Teammates are fun SCs (apart from one lone racist/homophobe troublemaker... Just…ugh, kick that guy off…!). Drew’s late wife and daughter are treated respectfully and they don’t take over the narrative. I was delighted that the wife isn’t demonized but instead is honored and acknowledged as part of Drew’s life.
A few things threw me off. I was surprised by how experienced and confident Miguel seemed when they make love for the first time. He’s never been with a man but has complete confidence in every move, no sense that he’s doing anything for the first time, no noticing of anything new or qualms that he’ll accidentally hurt Drew. He was all, I want to be inside you and we’re doing this, stated in a way that it was kind of assumed that that would be okay with Drew, rather than them discussing desires about topping and bottoming. It didn’t make sense to me, and it all went too smoothly for me to buy that Miguel hadn’t been with a man before. He read like someone with a lot of experience with men, not just anal sex with women (finding That Spot, no problem), and his attitude was, don’t worry, I’ll take care of you—it seemed inconsistent that everything was that easy for him.
I’d have loved more development of Miguel’s relationship with his brother, including details of what happened and how Manu recovered. Manu’s situation was glossed over, and Drew doesn’t meet him until quite late. But seeing Drew interact with Miguel’s parents was lovely, they’re terrific.
The pace is also off; it’s a smooth, slow easy burn for nearly the entire book…and then suddenly there’s conflict jammed into the last 10%, and the resolution is explained in the epilogue, rather than dealing with the situation and resolving it on page. That seemed an odd choice. The antagonist wasn’t really a threat until the very end, and so the book ends in a shaky spot, and then it’s all tied up in a neat bow with an explanation in the epilogue and doesn’t feel earned. Kind of a weird HFN but things are shaky for the future, and then the HEA already happened but we don’t get to experience it with the characters.
But overall, the romance is beautiful and I had a good time!
HEA, coach-player, age gap (not important/emphasized, just…there), dual bi-awakening romance. CW for grieving widower MC who lost his wife and child 6 years ago. NO OP action or drama in any way, no mention of previous lovers for Miguel (just that his last sexual partner was 8 months ago), and Drew had been with no one at all after his wife. 3.5 stars rounding up. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
I enjoyed this gentle romance between a hockey goalie and his team’s coach.
It’s a calm read, mostly low angst for the couple, and has a foundation of hockey knowledge and layers of family and teamwork that supports the story, giving it resonance. It’s rather slow-paced but honors grief and new developing feelings in turn, Coach Drew (40) coming out of that dark place and looking around and realizing life is here, it’s happening, and it’s time to accept the gift it’s holding out to him.
The gift is Miguel (28), a talented goalie who never received the call to the Show but whose focus and professionalism anchor their farm team.
Miguel and Drew have been coach and player for years and never thought of each other romantically, until the night Drew sees Miguel perform and their eyes meet…and they start to see each other in a new way. Their professional relationship morphs into a friendship with an underlying tension that simmers into attraction, something neither expected but both are open to exploring. It’s a dual bi-awakening that feels like a lovely “finding your person, gender doesn’t matter” situation. Once they start looking, they start wondering, and then yearning, until it explodes in an incendiary kiss, and they never look back.
Drew has worked through grief to the point that he’s waking to life again. Miguel is open to connection and surprised to find it with his coach. They become friends and then lovers, and it’s a sort of slice of life feeling journey. They’re hiding the relationship, but at the same time, not filled with anxiety about anyone finding out. They just…enjoy. And all is well.
It might sound boring, but, it’s a soothing read with beautiful moments, so if you’re looking for a respite from drama and a story that remains focused on the developing romance, with some authentic hockey along the way, this is a good one. Teammates are fun SCs (apart from one lone racist/homophobe troublemaker... Just…ugh, kick that guy off…!). Drew’s late wife and daughter are treated respectfully and they don’t take over the narrative. I was delighted that the wife isn’t demonized but instead is honored and acknowledged as part of Drew’s life.
A few things threw me off. I was surprised by how experienced and confident Miguel seemed when they make love for the first time. He’s never been with a man but has complete confidence in every move, no sense that he’s doing anything for the first time, no noticing of anything new or qualms that he’ll accidentally hurt Drew. He was all, I want to be inside you and we’re doing this, stated in a way that it was kind of assumed that that would be okay with Drew, rather than them discussing desires about topping and bottoming. It didn’t make sense to me, and it all went too smoothly for me to buy that Miguel hadn’t been with a man before. He read like someone with a lot of experience with men, not just anal sex with women (finding That Spot, no problem), and his attitude was, don’t worry, I’ll take care of you—it seemed inconsistent that everything was that easy for him.
I’d have loved more development of Miguel’s relationship with his brother, including details of what happened and how Manu recovered. Manu’s situation was glossed over, and Drew doesn’t meet him until quite late. But seeing Drew interact with Miguel’s parents was lovely, they’re terrific.
The pace is also off; it’s a smooth, slow easy burn for nearly the entire book…and then suddenly there’s conflict jammed into the last 10%, and the resolution is explained in the epilogue, rather than dealing with the situation and resolving it on page. That seemed an odd choice. The antagonist wasn’t really a threat until the very end, and so the book ends in a shaky spot, and then it’s all tied up in a neat bow with an explanation in the epilogue and doesn’t feel earned. Kind of a weird HFN but things are shaky for the future, and then the HEA already happened but we don’t get to experience it with the characters.
But overall, the romance is beautiful and I had a good time!
HEA, coach-player, age gap (not important/emphasized, just…there), dual bi-awakening romance. CW for grieving widower MC who lost his wife and child 6 years ago. NO OP action or drama in any way, no mention of previous lovers for Miguel (just that his last sexual partner was 8 months ago), and Drew had been with no one at all after his wife. 3.5 stars rounding up. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
December 19, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded to 5⭐️
I have read several books by this author and she always delivers. The characters of Drew and Miguel are realistic, relatable, and engaging, guys you want to root for, on and off the ice. They have known each other for five years, Drew as the hockey team head coach and Miguel as the goalie. Both are professionals, Miguel is 12 years younger than Drew, they have mutual respect for each other and just know the basics about their lives.
Both are single, Drew a widower after the death of his wife and daughter 6 years ago, and Miguel is focused on hockey and representing his heritage in the game. But for a reason neither understands, one day they start noticing things about each other —the width of shoulders, the tilt of a head, the curve of a neck, the trim waist or broad chest— all thoughts out of the blue, confusing because neither has ever had any attraction to another man before now. Over time, the attraction increases, they become aware it is mutual, and a slowly developing relationship begins.
Drew has been grieving the last six years, focused on his job, little socializing outside of work, living a solitary life with few non-job related connections. With Miguel, Drew finds himself opening up, starting to allow himself to live a little, to look forward to time spent with Miguel, not sure where things are going, but willing to take the ride. Although neither has ever been attracted to a man before nor had any physical intimacy with another man, the pull and connection are strong, and a lasting relationship begins, one which must be kept hidden.
The first half of the book has a lot of hockey action (some more technical and descriptive than I personally need, but great for an avid hockey fan) along with the growing relationship, the second half is focused more on the development of the long term connection and balancing personal time together with professional interactions at work so the relationship can be kept private. Predictably, someone finds out and the fallout must be dealt with, but since it’s a romance, we know the HEA will prevail in the end.
There’s a great cast of supporting characters, vivid world building with the hockey arenas and games, dealing with grief long term and how shared experiences can help with healing, supportive families, and finding the person that means home. The story is engaging, emotional at times, and even inspirational and hopeful if you have endured a devastating personal loss. It is well worth the read, and one I would recommend as a good way to spend an afternoon or evening.
I received an advance copy for free and this is my voluntary review.
I have read several books by this author and she always delivers. The characters of Drew and Miguel are realistic, relatable, and engaging, guys you want to root for, on and off the ice. They have known each other for five years, Drew as the hockey team head coach and Miguel as the goalie. Both are professionals, Miguel is 12 years younger than Drew, they have mutual respect for each other and just know the basics about their lives.
Both are single, Drew a widower after the death of his wife and daughter 6 years ago, and Miguel is focused on hockey and representing his heritage in the game. But for a reason neither understands, one day they start noticing things about each other —the width of shoulders, the tilt of a head, the curve of a neck, the trim waist or broad chest— all thoughts out of the blue, confusing because neither has ever had any attraction to another man before now. Over time, the attraction increases, they become aware it is mutual, and a slowly developing relationship begins.
Drew has been grieving the last six years, focused on his job, little socializing outside of work, living a solitary life with few non-job related connections. With Miguel, Drew finds himself opening up, starting to allow himself to live a little, to look forward to time spent with Miguel, not sure where things are going, but willing to take the ride. Although neither has ever been attracted to a man before nor had any physical intimacy with another man, the pull and connection are strong, and a lasting relationship begins, one which must be kept hidden.
The first half of the book has a lot of hockey action (some more technical and descriptive than I personally need, but great for an avid hockey fan) along with the growing relationship, the second half is focused more on the development of the long term connection and balancing personal time together with professional interactions at work so the relationship can be kept private. Predictably, someone finds out and the fallout must be dealt with, but since it’s a romance, we know the HEA will prevail in the end.
There’s a great cast of supporting characters, vivid world building with the hockey arenas and games, dealing with grief long term and how shared experiences can help with healing, supportive families, and finding the person that means home. The story is engaging, emotional at times, and even inspirational and hopeful if you have endured a devastating personal loss. It is well worth the read, and one I would recommend as a good way to spend an afternoon or evening.
I received an advance copy for free and this is my voluntary review.
December 1, 2025
A MM hockey coach/player romance that’s part of a multi-author series that can be read as a standalone. Miguel has spent ten years in the minors, waiting for his opportunity to turn pro, all while battling the looming fears of injury or aging that could end his dream. He values his team and shares a camaraderie with most players, but recently, he’s begun to see his coach, Drew, in a new and unexpected light. Drew has been coaching the Grizzlies for five years and often questions whether he is truly helping the team, especially since they haven't closed out a season with a championship. After losing his wife and daughter six years ago, he never thought he would find himself attracted to another person again, let alone to one of his players. As Drew and Miguel begin to explore their feelings for each other, they must come to terms with their emotions and the possibility of their secret being exposed.
I like a good hockey romance, and parts of this one were good, but I thought the beginning was a little slow, and I wanted to see more of their relationship unfold. After the first kiss, it then swiftly moved to them practically living together, and weeks to months passed by until the end of the season. The epilogue offered insights into the aftermath of their relationship being unveiled, yet I wished this pivotal part had been woven into the main storyline. The repercussions of their love during the season would have added significant depth and resonance. The other players contributed a delightful levity to the tale, but I longed for them to be more integrated within the core narrative, providing a stronger impact. Additionally, the mention of Miguel’s brother losing his chance at a hockey career felt incomplete, leaving a poignant thread unexamined. Overall, while the read had its merits, it didn’t leave a lasting impression that would compel me to revisit the story in the future. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I like a good hockey romance, and parts of this one were good, but I thought the beginning was a little slow, and I wanted to see more of their relationship unfold. After the first kiss, it then swiftly moved to them practically living together, and weeks to months passed by until the end of the season. The epilogue offered insights into the aftermath of their relationship being unveiled, yet I wished this pivotal part had been woven into the main storyline. The repercussions of their love during the season would have added significant depth and resonance. The other players contributed a delightful levity to the tale, but I longed for them to be more integrated within the core narrative, providing a stronger impact. Additionally, the mention of Miguel’s brother losing his chance at a hockey career felt incomplete, leaving a poignant thread unexamined. Overall, while the read had its merits, it didn’t leave a lasting impression that would compel me to revisit the story in the future. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2025
Wow! This is a new to me author. Also, I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
As this author was new to me, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I love hockey, and I love MM romance, so that’s the perfect mix. The story was beautiful. Drew, who is a coach, and Miguel, who is the goaltender for the team that Drew coaches, are definitely a forbidden couple. Coach/player, age gap, and by the way they both thought they were straight.
Drew is a widower who lost his wife and daughter in a plane crash. He’s been living a shell of a life. Yes he coaches a professional hockey team and he shows up fully. That’s all he has though. The emptiness and the weight of his grief are his constant companions. He’s broken. His heart is tender and he never expected to give it to anyone else.
Miguel is a goaltender who never made it to the top of the top but still shows up and does his best. He and Drew have had a solid coach/player relationship built on respect and trust for the last couple of years. He’s also never been attracted to a man before but suddenly there’s something there below the surface.
Miguel might be younger but he helps Drew with his grief and his feelings. And I love that. I love that switch of the younger partner being the comfort for the older partner.
The pacing is good. The burn is slow with the steam not kicking in until about 60% of the way in. But when it kicks in? It is HOT.
For two men with no experience with men, they take that road of discovery together and take it well.
My only quibble is with the sudden drama at the end that is just resolved with a quick hand wave explanation in the epilogue. However, they do get their HEA, which is the most important thing.
Thank you, Gay Romance Reviews, for a chance to read and review this!
As this author was new to me, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I love hockey, and I love MM romance, so that’s the perfect mix. The story was beautiful. Drew, who is a coach, and Miguel, who is the goaltender for the team that Drew coaches, are definitely a forbidden couple. Coach/player, age gap, and by the way they both thought they were straight.
Drew is a widower who lost his wife and daughter in a plane crash. He’s been living a shell of a life. Yes he coaches a professional hockey team and he shows up fully. That’s all he has though. The emptiness and the weight of his grief are his constant companions. He’s broken. His heart is tender and he never expected to give it to anyone else.
Miguel is a goaltender who never made it to the top of the top but still shows up and does his best. He and Drew have had a solid coach/player relationship built on respect and trust for the last couple of years. He’s also never been attracted to a man before but suddenly there’s something there below the surface.
Miguel might be younger but he helps Drew with his grief and his feelings. And I love that. I love that switch of the younger partner being the comfort for the older partner.
The pacing is good. The burn is slow with the steam not kicking in until about 60% of the way in. But when it kicks in? It is HOT.
For two men with no experience with men, they take that road of discovery together and take it well.
My only quibble is with the sudden drama at the end that is just resolved with a quick hand wave explanation in the epilogue. However, they do get their HEA, which is the most important thing.
Thank you, Gay Romance Reviews, for a chance to read and review this!
December 2, 2025
It reinvents the traditional formula of a hockey romance, but it makes it look more real and heartfelt. Miguel has lived a lifetime trying to fulfill a dream that never seems to be quite within his grasp. Drew is a coach who is yet to understand whether he is impacting a difference even though he carries the pain of losing his family in his heart. The tension becomes realistic and touching when the feelings of their respect begin to change toward something stronger.
I liked the premise and I liked both men, but the pacing was not always my favorite. The start was sluggish and after they kissed each other, the relationship picked up at such a fast rate that I felt I was losing valuable time. The time jumps hastened the season to an extent that I could not fully immerse myself into their relationship. I also wanted the outcome of their relationship turning out to be a separate story and not something set aside in the epilogue. It could have been really emotionally charged. The teammates were more of an addition to the fun and charm, yet should have been more prominent in the main storyline. Miguel had an older brother but it was said in such a manner that it did not form to the maximum degree.
Despite these problems, there are some things I found interesting in the book. The prohibitive nature, the age difference, and the bi awakening factors introduced a new twist in the romance. Miguel moving to speak espanol in hot situations was a personality touch and gave a sense of intimacy to the duo. These two characters were both with a heavy past and it was something I personally enjoyed viewing them attempt to find their way through their emotions.
On the whole, it is a good hockey romance that has touching points and some unusual twists. It may not be among those I will revisit but I am happy that I read it.
ARC REVIEW
I liked the premise and I liked both men, but the pacing was not always my favorite. The start was sluggish and after they kissed each other, the relationship picked up at such a fast rate that I felt I was losing valuable time. The time jumps hastened the season to an extent that I could not fully immerse myself into their relationship. I also wanted the outcome of their relationship turning out to be a separate story and not something set aside in the epilogue. It could have been really emotionally charged. The teammates were more of an addition to the fun and charm, yet should have been more prominent in the main storyline. Miguel had an older brother but it was said in such a manner that it did not form to the maximum degree.
Despite these problems, there are some things I found interesting in the book. The prohibitive nature, the age difference, and the bi awakening factors introduced a new twist in the romance. Miguel moving to speak espanol in hot situations was a personality touch and gave a sense of intimacy to the duo. These two characters were both with a heavy past and it was something I personally enjoyed viewing them attempt to find their way through their emotions.
On the whole, it is a good hockey romance that has touching points and some unusual twists. It may not be among those I will revisit but I am happy that I read it.
ARC REVIEW
December 1, 2025
hearts on ice - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tender, Slow-Burn MM Hockey Romance That Melts the Rink
Hearts on Ice glides in with quiet intensity and a love story that feels both fragile and brave. Drew and Miguel are two wonderful men who had to reach the right moment in their lives before they could choose “more.” Drew, still carrying the weight of losing his wife and daughter in a plane crash, lives a contained, careful life. He shows up for his team, gives everything he has to coaching, but the emptiness presses on him like a second skin.
Miguel, the steady goaltender who never reached the highest league but pours heart into every game, has spent years waiting for a call that may never come. What he wants now is simple: a partner, a home, someone to be his family.
Their connection starts quietly, built on years of respect and trust, until something warmer stirs between them. It’s the first same-sex relationship for both men, layered with age-gap tension, bi-awakening discovery, and the very real boundary they shouldn’t cross as coach and player. And yet—love finds a way. Their story is intimate, gentle at its core, and threaded with hurt/comfort moments that cut and soothe in equal measure.
While the pacing leans slow at times, the emotional payoff is worth it. This romance doesn’t shout; it whispers, heals, and rebuilds. Drew finally faces the grief he’s avoided, and Miguel steps into the love and stability he’s always craved. Together, they craft a hard-won happily ever after that feels earned and heartfelt.
A tender, rule-breaking hockey romance that leaves a warm glow long after the last page. 🧊💙
Hearts on Ice glides in with quiet intensity and a love story that feels both fragile and brave. Drew and Miguel are two wonderful men who had to reach the right moment in their lives before they could choose “more.” Drew, still carrying the weight of losing his wife and daughter in a plane crash, lives a contained, careful life. He shows up for his team, gives everything he has to coaching, but the emptiness presses on him like a second skin.
Miguel, the steady goaltender who never reached the highest league but pours heart into every game, has spent years waiting for a call that may never come. What he wants now is simple: a partner, a home, someone to be his family.
Their connection starts quietly, built on years of respect and trust, until something warmer stirs between them. It’s the first same-sex relationship for both men, layered with age-gap tension, bi-awakening discovery, and the very real boundary they shouldn’t cross as coach and player. And yet—love finds a way. Their story is intimate, gentle at its core, and threaded with hurt/comfort moments that cut and soothe in equal measure.
While the pacing leans slow at times, the emotional payoff is worth it. This romance doesn’t shout; it whispers, heals, and rebuilds. Drew finally faces the grief he’s avoided, and Miguel steps into the love and stability he’s always craved. Together, they craft a hard-won happily ever after that feels earned and heartfelt.
A tender, rule-breaking hockey romance that leaves a warm glow long after the last page. 🧊💙
November 20, 2025
This is a slow burn romance between a hockey coach still grieving the loss of his wife and daughter six years before, and the goalie on his PHL minor league team. Both men have believed they were straight, so the attraction comes gradually, but there is no internalized homophobia or fighting against the same-sex element. Drew, the coach, hesitates over letting all the emotions he had for his wife, that he thought would always be tied up in her, reach for someone new. He still goes to a grief and loss group and his whole life for six years has been his work. Miguel, the player, has moments of wondering about the dynamics of coach and player, as he still hopes to move up to the top league.
This could have been very angsty, with a lot of external and internal conflict, but instead, it's a slow journey of discovery and awakening, with some poignancy. The language is lush, the story very much centered in the romance element. There is hockey action in the background, and occasionally it takes center stage, but this is pretty narrowly focused on the main characters.
Miguel's mom is Puerto Rican, his dad is Dominican, and I really enjoyed the Hispanic flavor in language and food that flowed through the story. Miguel's heritage wasn't a plot point, but an element that added richness to the story.
In this world, there are out gay hockey players, so the risk of being outed, while concerning because of the apparent power imbalance, isn't as powerful as if they were at risk of being the first. The result is a story that I have shelved as a comfort-reread.
This could have been very angsty, with a lot of external and internal conflict, but instead, it's a slow journey of discovery and awakening, with some poignancy. The language is lush, the story very much centered in the romance element. There is hockey action in the background, and occasionally it takes center stage, but this is pretty narrowly focused on the main characters.
Miguel's mom is Puerto Rican, his dad is Dominican, and I really enjoyed the Hispanic flavor in language and food that flowed through the story. Miguel's heritage wasn't a plot point, but an element that added richness to the story.
In this world, there are out gay hockey players, so the risk of being outed, while concerning because of the apparent power imbalance, isn't as powerful as if they were at risk of being the first. The result is a story that I have shelved as a comfort-reread.
November 17, 2025
Drew has been holding himself the best he can for the last six years after losing not only his hockey career when he is injured on the ice, but when a plane crash took away his wife and daughter shortly after. So he’s buried himself working as a coach for the minor team ice hockey team. But then there is a shift. One he doesn’t realize is happening until it’s too late. Miguel is changing everything for him. He’s bringing him back to life. He never expected it, never thought he would want it, but every look Miguel gives him, well, Drew finds himself looking back. Miguel has known Drew for five years now and realizes he doesn’t know a lot about him. And there has been this shift inside him when he looks at Drew. He too doesn’t realize what is going on until it’s too late. And it’s something that he can’t stop, nor does he want to. Because the more he gets to know Drew, the harder he falls. Their coach and player, it probably shouldn’t happen. But their hearts say otherwise. A lovely slow burn between Drew and Miguel as they come to realize how they feel about one another. Neither have looked at men before, but really gender is the last thing on their mind. It’s how the two of them are together. How they feel when they lock eyes. I loved watching these two slowly fall in love. To taking steps to know one another better and just becoming closer and closer before they have that aha realization of falling. Great story all around!
November 20, 2025
I really liked this one. It was wholesome no manwhore MCs or side characters. The MCs went on a journey from awareness to attraction.
**Plenty of tension, eye contact, slight touches in public(because it was a hidden relationship)** Once they decided to see each other they were all in.
I liked that hockey was equal parts to the romance. We got mentions of rituals, games, and locker room talks.
I also appreciated that the english translation followed the spanish phrases. I didn't have to skim to a glossary or uses context clues to figure out what was said.
*I did feel like some parts were a little repetitive.
For example: Lilys up beat personality was mentioned every scene she was in.
*I wish we got more backstory on Miguel's brother.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
*Miguel to Drew during a early morning solo practice, before their first kiss.
“You don’t have to watch me,” I said.
“I know,” he rasped. “But I don’t want to leave.” Those eight words landed somewhere deep. I don’t think he even realized what he’d said.
*Drew to Miguel after visiting his late wife and daughters graves.
“I went to see them today,” he said. “Brought flowers. Talked to them.” He paused, like he was searching for the words. “Told them… told them I think I might be ready to live again.”
***Let me tell you I cried because after 6 years he was finally ready to live again**
💥 40/28
💥 Coach/Goalie
💥 No OMD/OWD
💥 No third act break up
**Plenty of tension, eye contact, slight touches in public(because it was a hidden relationship)** Once they decided to see each other they were all in.
I liked that hockey was equal parts to the romance. We got mentions of rituals, games, and locker room talks.
I also appreciated that the english translation followed the spanish phrases. I didn't have to skim to a glossary or uses context clues to figure out what was said.
*I did feel like some parts were a little repetitive.
For example: Lilys up beat personality was mentioned every scene she was in.
*I wish we got more backstory on Miguel's brother.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
*Miguel to Drew during a early morning solo practice, before their first kiss.
“You don’t have to watch me,” I said.
“I know,” he rasped. “But I don’t want to leave.” Those eight words landed somewhere deep. I don’t think he even realized what he’d said.
*Drew to Miguel after visiting his late wife and daughters graves.
“I went to see them today,” he said. “Brought flowers. Talked to them.” He paused, like he was searching for the words. “Told them… told them I think I might be ready to live again.”
***Let me tell you I cried because after 6 years he was finally ready to live again**
💥 40/28
💥 Coach/Goalie
💥 No OMD/OWD
💥 No third act break up
November 20, 2025
This book is part of the multi-author The Games We Play series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone read. This is the story of Miguel and Drew. Miguel is a goalie for the LA Grizzles and he is hoping to be called up to the NHL. Drew has been the coach for the LA Grizzles for the past 5 years. Before that he was forced to stop playing hockey due to an injury. Then shortly after he lost his wife and daughter. Life ended for him at that moment. He has poured all his time and energy into being a coach. That is his sole focus. Drew and Miguel have been working together since Drew became coach. Their relationship has always been a coach / player relationship. But after five years there are changes starting to happen. Miguel is slowly drawing Drew out of the bubble where he hides and getting him involved in life once again. No longer just existing, Drew starts to become a participant. This is their story. Miguel is looking for someone to be just his and his heart. Drew is slowly realizing that maybe there is more for him in life. This is a well written slow burn story. Emphasis on the slow. The book is well written and easy to read. I really enjoyed the story. I look forward to more books by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2025
This review is going to be super biased because one of the MCs is half Dominican so deal with it 😆
Just kidding on the deal with it part. I’ve had the honor of reading four books from this series but this one is special. Not because of the Dominican MC(though I’m proud as hell that my little island is represented), but because of the nature of this book.
Drew lost his family on top of losing his pro career. That’s the kind of pain that you can’t ever get over. The fact that he was making an effort to continue on despite his pain, is inspiring as hell. He had all the reasons in the world to give up, yet he didn’t.
He never thought he would ever love someone again but Miguel slipped into his life in a way he never saw coming. Not only did he become an anchor for those times he felt adrift, but he gave Drew a purpose to want to move forward.
I couldn’t put this book down. The slow build up into their relationship was so tender and sweet. It wasn’t about them experimenting with their new found sexuality. It was about them finding a deeper connection that went beyond the physical.
With just one look they said so many things and for me, that’s worth more than a hundred smutty scenes.
They were each other’s biggest supporters.
I hope you get the chance to read this series because it’s absolutely fantastic!
Just kidding on the deal with it part. I’ve had the honor of reading four books from this series but this one is special. Not because of the Dominican MC(though I’m proud as hell that my little island is represented), but because of the nature of this book.
Drew lost his family on top of losing his pro career. That’s the kind of pain that you can’t ever get over. The fact that he was making an effort to continue on despite his pain, is inspiring as hell. He had all the reasons in the world to give up, yet he didn’t.
He never thought he would ever love someone again but Miguel slipped into his life in a way he never saw coming. Not only did he become an anchor for those times he felt adrift, but he gave Drew a purpose to want to move forward.
I couldn’t put this book down. The slow build up into their relationship was so tender and sweet. It wasn’t about them experimenting with their new found sexuality. It was about them finding a deeper connection that went beyond the physical.
With just one look they said so many things and for me, that’s worth more than a hundred smutty scenes.
They were each other’s biggest supporters.
I hope you get the chance to read this series because it’s absolutely fantastic!
December 8, 2025
Coach Andrew Mackenzie and goaltender Miguel Jimenez are a great couple. I loved this mature, slow-burn romance between men who had no idea they would ever find their hearts and, in Drew's case, his second chance. A grieving widower and father, Coach Mack has spent six years trying to find his center again, and using hockey as the stand-in. But when his attention is snagged by goalie Miguel "Maestro" Rodriguez, the ties that bound him to his grief begin to loosen. The story follows their relationship from admiration and respect to their slow recognition and final surrender to the attraction, affection, and passion that they eventually can no longer ignore or evade.
Of course, the expected challenges arise, including the hater on the team who tries to destroy their joy. However, their HEA is a sweet triumph, despite the hiccup of the team management's waffling at the end. I loved the team dynamics and their loyalty to their teammate and their coach, so while I wish the author had given us some clue as to why he's such a jerk, I was inordinately pleased when Sam got what was coming to him. I love that Drew found a place to belong with Miguel's family, who are a warm and welcoming home for him. And I love how talented and unassuming Miguel---his guitar-playing and singing are a breath of fresh air in the story.
Of course, the expected challenges arise, including the hater on the team who tries to destroy their joy. However, their HEA is a sweet triumph, despite the hiccup of the team management's waffling at the end. I loved the team dynamics and their loyalty to their teammate and their coach, so while I wish the author had given us some clue as to why he's such a jerk, I was inordinately pleased when Sam got what was coming to him. I love that Drew found a place to belong with Miguel's family, who are a warm and welcoming home for him. And I love how talented and unassuming Miguel---his guitar-playing and singing are a breath of fresh air in the story.
December 9, 2025
Hearts on Ice is a gentle, intimate hockey romance about two men finding love, healing, and family in each other. Drew, the LA Grizzlies’ coach, is still grieving the loss of his wife and daughter. Miguel, the team’s goalie, has spent years chasing an NHL dream that never quite comes. Their relationship starts as deep respect, slowly shifts into longing, and becomes something beautiful neither expected.
I loved how this story reinvents the usual hockey romance with real emotion: a bi-awakening without internalised homophobia, age gap tension, and a soft, steady journey instead of heavy angst. Miguel slipping into Spanish in intimate moments and the cultural touches around family and food added richness to the story.
Some pacing choices didn’t work for me—the start felt slow, and once they kiss, the relationship moves very quickly with time jumps that cut some emotional depth. I also wished the resolution wasn’t saved for the epilogue, and Miguel’s family and the team could have played a bigger role.
Still, this is a heartfelt slow burn about grief, second chances, and choosing love after loss. The epilogue is sweet and ties everything together beautifully. A comforting, tender read I’m happy I picked up.
Recommended for readers who love:
🏒 Coach/player
💙 Bi-awakening
🫶 Found family energy
💔 Healing arcs
🔥 Low angst, high intimacy
I loved how this story reinvents the usual hockey romance with real emotion: a bi-awakening without internalised homophobia, age gap tension, and a soft, steady journey instead of heavy angst. Miguel slipping into Spanish in intimate moments and the cultural touches around family and food added richness to the story.
Some pacing choices didn’t work for me—the start felt slow, and once they kiss, the relationship moves very quickly with time jumps that cut some emotional depth. I also wished the resolution wasn’t saved for the epilogue, and Miguel’s family and the team could have played a bigger role.
Still, this is a heartfelt slow burn about grief, second chances, and choosing love after loss. The epilogue is sweet and ties everything together beautifully. A comforting, tender read I’m happy I picked up.
Recommended for readers who love:
🏒 Coach/player
💙 Bi-awakening
🫶 Found family energy
💔 Healing arcs
🔥 Low angst, high intimacy
December 3, 2025
'A week into the schedule and I could already feel the ground shifting under me. On the ice, and in the quiet spaces where Drew’s gaze lingered a second too long.'
I loved this book. It was such a sweet, hurt/comfort double bi-awakening (yes!!) romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Miguel and Drew. Their attraction to each other was new and unexpected to them as they each tried to figure out what they were feeling. A slow burn that was well worth the wait. The chemistry between them was scorching and I liked that Miguel prepared rather than go in blind- and loved the Spanish slipped in. That was hot!
'He arched a brow. “You sound… awfully confident for someone who’s never—”
“Done this before?” I finished for him. “Please. I’m a goalie, remember? I study tape before every game.”
That earned me another laugh, softer this time.
“And maybe I called Ry and Xander,” I added, like it was nothing. “Ry's useless— grunted something about ‘figure it out.’ But Xander? Man practically gave me diagrams.”
Drew’s smile broke wide. “You’re impossible.”
“No,” I said, brushing my lips against his. “I’m prepared.”
I also really liked the supporting characters. A beautiful romance. I hope it gets narrated into audio someday! 5 stars
I loved this book. It was such a sweet, hurt/comfort double bi-awakening (yes!!) romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Miguel and Drew. Their attraction to each other was new and unexpected to them as they each tried to figure out what they were feeling. A slow burn that was well worth the wait. The chemistry between them was scorching and I liked that Miguel prepared rather than go in blind- and loved the Spanish slipped in. That was hot!
'He arched a brow. “You sound… awfully confident for someone who’s never—”
“Done this before?” I finished for him. “Please. I’m a goalie, remember? I study tape before every game.”
That earned me another laugh, softer this time.
“And maybe I called Ry and Xander,” I added, like it was nothing. “Ry's useless— grunted something about ‘figure it out.’ But Xander? Man practically gave me diagrams.”
Drew’s smile broke wide. “You’re impossible.”
“No,” I said, brushing my lips against his. “I’m prepared.”
I also really liked the supporting characters. A beautiful romance. I hope it gets narrated into audio someday! 5 stars
December 23, 2025
Drew has been trying to keep it safe for quite a while now, since he lost his wife and daughter. Not taking risks means feeling safe
Miguel is drawn to Drew in a way that’s new and exciting. It’s a risk, it’s crossing all the lines in a new and unexpected way.
Together, maybe they can work through any issues that come up and make it...
When they first feel a connection to one another, it’s a tad confusing for each, but there’s also excitement. For Drew, there’s also some sadness there, after what he’s gone through.
Their first time together was just so sweet... Lovely in all ways, really.
The description of how they first start living together is quite beautiful, really... & just so sweet.
I loved how for both characters learning about their new sexuality was just a normal, natural progression of things, there was no anxiety over this, just simple acceptance...
Still, this is a mostly well written story with lots of emotions, & it’s just touching, really.
Side note... I really appreciated how Spanish words were automatically repeated in English each time, this was much appreciated. I'm usually pretty good with other languages, but here I never had to doubt what I read.
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
Miguel is drawn to Drew in a way that’s new and exciting. It’s a risk, it’s crossing all the lines in a new and unexpected way.
Together, maybe they can work through any issues that come up and make it...
When they first feel a connection to one another, it’s a tad confusing for each, but there’s also excitement. For Drew, there’s also some sadness there, after what he’s gone through.
Their first time together was just so sweet... Lovely in all ways, really.
The description of how they first start living together is quite beautiful, really... & just so sweet.
I loved how for both characters learning about their new sexuality was just a normal, natural progression of things, there was no anxiety over this, just simple acceptance...
Still, this is a mostly well written story with lots of emotions, & it’s just touching, really.
Side note... I really appreciated how Spanish words were automatically repeated in English each time, this was much appreciated. I'm usually pretty good with other languages, but here I never had to doubt what I read.
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
December 31, 2025
This book is as heartbreaking as it is wholesome and heart-warming. You have two men who come from totally different places in life, united simply by hockey and then their growing love. I love that the story doesn't depict this sudden explosion of love but rather one that develops over time. We watch Drew have to deal with his grief, his commitment to being responsible and doing the right thing for himself, for Miguel, for the team. We have Miguel trying to be his best, best goalie, best hockey player, best representation of his culture, best partner. They are slow burn in the best way possible as they learn how to be in a relationship together, especially when their love is forbidden.
Denver Shaw's writing is poetic at certain points. "Miguel's shoulder brushed mine when we stood. It was nothing, a brush of fabric- and somehow everything". and conversations like "I kissed him, Em. And for a second, I thought the world would tilt off its axis. But it didn't. It just- felt like breathing. He makes the quiet less heavy… makes me notice things again." There is also a lot of technical hockey language, which as an avid hockey fan I appreciated. Absolutely loved this book and these characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Denver Shaw's writing is poetic at certain points. "Miguel's shoulder brushed mine when we stood. It was nothing, a brush of fabric- and somehow everything". and conversations like "I kissed him, Em. And for a second, I thought the world would tilt off its axis. But it didn't. It just- felt like breathing. He makes the quiet less heavy… makes me notice things again." There is also a lot of technical hockey language, which as an avid hockey fan I appreciated. Absolutely loved this book and these characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 23, 2025
This installment of The Games We Play series offers a warm, deeply emotional slow-burn romance between two men who have spent years working together without imagining their lives could ever entwine like this. Drew, longtime coach of the LA Grizzlies, has lived in quiet grief since the injury that ended his hockey career and shortly after, the tragic loss of his wife and daughter. Coaching became his whole world, and for six years his relationship with Miguel—his talented, steady goalie—has been strictly professional. But small moments of connection turn into late-night talks, unexpected comfort, and a closeness neither can ignore. Drew slowly begins to believe there may still be room in his heart for happiness.
The story blends forbidden coach/player dynamics, double bi awakening, and tender hurt-comfort into an intimate, precious romance. Both men finally reach a place where they’re ready to choose something more, even if it means breaking the rules that once kept them apart.
Denver knows how to tug at the heartstrings—this one hit hard in the best ways. The slow burn pays off with emotion, romance, and heat, making it a beautiful, heartfelt read I loved.
4.5⭐️/5
The story blends forbidden coach/player dynamics, double bi awakening, and tender hurt-comfort into an intimate, precious romance. Both men finally reach a place where they’re ready to choose something more, even if it means breaking the rules that once kept them apart.
Denver knows how to tug at the heartstrings—this one hit hard in the best ways. The slow burn pays off with emotion, romance, and heat, making it a beautiful, heartfelt read I loved.
4.5⭐️/5
November 30, 2025
Hearts on Ice - Denver Shaw
5/5
* SPOILERS *
This is my very first book by Denver Shaw that I’ve ever read and I ate this up like it was nothing. If you’re looking for a sweet yet spice story with all the emotions, I highly recommend this book so much. Also, if you love a good age
Miguel and Drew were so perfect from the start of this book to the very end that had me an emotional mess. I love how much Miguel helped Drew find himself. Miguel had lost his wife and daughter in a tragic accident that he gave up on love. The way that Drew and Miguel come together so beautifully was everything I could want.
The spice scenes were so perfect that I needed more from one another. I loved how tender Miguel truly was. My favorite spice scene was definitely chapter twenty-eight. It was so intimate and just so special between the two of them. And the Spanish talking… like can we say hot AF! I’m all for a man talking to me like that.
Also; the ending where Drew learned Spanish… that whole scene was so surreal and just so special. He learned Spanish for Miguel.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
5/5
* SPOILERS *
This is my very first book by Denver Shaw that I’ve ever read and I ate this up like it was nothing. If you’re looking for a sweet yet spice story with all the emotions, I highly recommend this book so much. Also, if you love a good age
Miguel and Drew were so perfect from the start of this book to the very end that had me an emotional mess. I love how much Miguel helped Drew find himself. Miguel had lost his wife and daughter in a tragic accident that he gave up on love. The way that Drew and Miguel come together so beautifully was everything I could want.
The spice scenes were so perfect that I needed more from one another. I loved how tender Miguel truly was. My favorite spice scene was definitely chapter twenty-eight. It was so intimate and just so special between the two of them. And the Spanish talking… like can we say hot AF! I’m all for a man talking to me like that.
Also; the ending where Drew learned Spanish… that whole scene was so surreal and just so special. He learned Spanish for Miguel.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
December 1, 2025
Hearts on Ice is the first book I have read by Denver Shaw and it will not be my last. I enjoyed this mm hockey romance that develops between a goalie and his coach. In the story, Shaw is able to blend the game of hockey, the pain of grief, the development of a strong bond, and a bi-awakening into an entertaining story. There is a nice balance of action, emotions, and heat to build the relationship between Miguel and Drew.
Miguel is not a rookie player who needs someone to take care of him. He has played minor league hockey for ten years, waiting to get called up to the professional league. He supports his teammates and his coaches. In Drew, he sees something special that makes him want to reach out to him.
Drew has been drowning in the grief of a career ending injury and losing his wife and daughter in the same year. He has only been existing for the past six years. He is learning to live his life again and accept that he is allowed to be happy.
This is a great story. While it is part of the Season Two: The Games We Play series, all of the books are stand alone novels.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
Miguel is not a rookie player who needs someone to take care of him. He has played minor league hockey for ten years, waiting to get called up to the professional league. He supports his teammates and his coaches. In Drew, he sees something special that makes him want to reach out to him.
Drew has been drowning in the grief of a career ending injury and losing his wife and daughter in the same year. He has only been existing for the past six years. He is learning to live his life again and accept that he is allowed to be happy.
This is a great story. While it is part of the Season Two: The Games We Play series, all of the books are stand alone novels.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
December 25, 2025
I enjoyed this book about Miguel, the goalie, and Drew, the head coach, from the Grizzlies a second division professional hockey team. Miguel has been playing there for 10 years and Drew coaching for 5 years, one year after losing his hockey career due to an injury and his family a few months later in a plane crash. Miguel starts to be attracter to Drew, which surprises him as he is straight, and Drew who is feel very very lonely, starts to feel like maybe he could move, and he notices Miguel in a way he never noticed before, which is also a surprises as he is also straight. All these feeling are very well described and mature into them being finally together, but with the fear of being discovered mainly due to the coach/player situation.
I enjoyed reading the evolution of their relationship, but I felt a bit frustrated as the end seemed rushed, we had some answers in the epilogue but I would have liked to have more.
This is a slow burn, MM hockey coach/player romance that’s part of a multi-author series that can be read as a standalone.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
I enjoyed reading the evolution of their relationship, but I felt a bit frustrated as the end seemed rushed, we had some answers in the epilogue but I would have liked to have more.
This is a slow burn, MM hockey coach/player romance that’s part of a multi-author series that can be read as a standalone.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 22, 2025
A sweet, spicy, and emotional hockey romance. Miguel is the goalie for the minor league L.A. Grizzlies hockey team. He's 28 and his chances for getting called up are getting lower, but he stays for his friends on the team and for the coach. Drew has been coaching the Grizzlies for 5 years, 1 year less than he has been grieving the loss of playing and his family. Drew is existing in a sort of half-life of grief, but the sunshine of Miguel is starting to break through. Miguel is starting to notice how beautiful and strong Coach is, he longs to take care of the man. This was really a lovely story about 2 men finding themselves in love in the most unlikely way. While its a new situation for both of them, the book doesn't spend a lot of time dwelling on that which I appreciate. I love it when big guys are softies and Drew fills that role perfectly. Miguel is a great combo of spicy and sweet which is fun to read. Please mind the content warning for death of a spouse and child. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend.
December 4, 2025
This is book three in the season two multi author Games We Play series and features a coach/player hockey romance.
Drew (Coach Mack) broke my heart. After losing his wife and daughter years before, he’d just been going through the motions, living his life in a vacuum until he started noticing things about his goalie but even then, he fought against it. Miguel accepted his attraction easier than Drew but I think it was because he had family members that loved and supported him where Drew had no one.
The personal interactions between Miguel and Drew were so incredibly sweet but the majority of the book, to me, was information overload and for some reason, the sentences kinda reminded me of a sports commentator talking. I was drowning in so many details that my mind started wandering and I ended up skimming until I’d get to the next part that had them talking to each other. That could just be me though since it got such high reviews so don’t take my word for it. Check it out for yourself. For me, 4 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Drew (Coach Mack) broke my heart. After losing his wife and daughter years before, he’d just been going through the motions, living his life in a vacuum until he started noticing things about his goalie but even then, he fought against it. Miguel accepted his attraction easier than Drew but I think it was because he had family members that loved and supported him where Drew had no one.
The personal interactions between Miguel and Drew were so incredibly sweet but the majority of the book, to me, was information overload and for some reason, the sentences kinda reminded me of a sports commentator talking. I was drowning in so many details that my mind started wandering and I ended up skimming until I’d get to the next part that had them talking to each other. That could just be me though since it got such high reviews so don’t take my word for it. Check it out for yourself. For me, 4 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2026
Hearts on Ice is a beautifully paced MM hockey romance that uses the double-bi-awakening and age-gap tropes to great effect. The relationship between Miguel, the team’s goalie, and Drew, the coach, feels earned not only because of their age difference but also because of the gap in their careers. Drew sees in Miguel the player he once was—and the one he might have become—which adds a thoughtful layer to their dynamic.
Miguel acts as an unspoken team captain, reading the game from the ice and understanding the league’s inner workings, something that naturally draws Drew’s attention. I loved how their relationship evolves organically: from coach and player, to friends, and then slowly into something deeper as they both come to terms with their attraction.
Nothing feels rushed, and the emotional progression is gentle and believable. This is a calm, engaging read that invites you to savor the story rather than race through it. A very pleasant sports romance that I definitely recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Miguel acts as an unspoken team captain, reading the game from the ice and understanding the league’s inner workings, something that naturally draws Drew’s attention. I loved how their relationship evolves organically: from coach and player, to friends, and then slowly into something deeper as they both come to terms with their attraction.
Nothing feels rushed, and the emotional progression is gentle and believable. This is a calm, engaging read that invites you to savor the story rather than race through it. A very pleasant sports romance that I definitely recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2025
I really liked this book, the 2nd in a series (The Games We Play, multi-author series). It worked as a stand alone for me. This is a forbidden MM romance with an age gap, and hurt-comfort vibes. It’s written as a dual POV and features a dual bi-awakening.
Some things that made this hockey romance a little different, and therefore a stand out for me: this is a minor league hockey story with all the associated lack of funding and financial stress that most readers will find relatable. While I don’t usually care for a slow burn, I’m not going to lie: the dual bi-awakening feature was hot AF. Another thing: Miguel reverts to español when he’s in the throes. Sí papi, sí. Está caliente.
Drew and Miguel are both characters I loved and felt for. They both had to carry a fair amount on their shoulders, without giving anything away—their journeys were gripping to me. This was a wonderful book — I absolutely recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️/5
Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.
Some things that made this hockey romance a little different, and therefore a stand out for me: this is a minor league hockey story with all the associated lack of funding and financial stress that most readers will find relatable. While I don’t usually care for a slow burn, I’m not going to lie: the dual bi-awakening feature was hot AF. Another thing: Miguel reverts to español when he’s in the throes. Sí papi, sí. Está caliente.
Drew and Miguel are both characters I loved and felt for. They both had to carry a fair amount on their shoulders, without giving anything away—their journeys were gripping to me. This was a wonderful book — I absolutely recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️/5
Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.
Read
December 1, 2025Miguel plays on the farm team as a goalkeeper but he's never been called up to the big league. He's beginning to doubt himself in more ways than one. It seems he can't stop thinking inappropriate things about his coach. Drew came to coaching after an injury derailed his playing career. Drew lost his wife and young daughter six years ago and thought love and lust died with them until he really sees Miguel. A relationship between these two crosses so many lines, least of which is that neither of them have ever been attacked to the same sex before. Both are more than willing to keep their growing relationship on the down low, but secrets have a way of coming out. Sports still remains a battle ground where same-sex relationships are rare and often only spoken of after retirement. It's nice to read about the unspoken relationships that we all suspect exist but have never been confirmed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2025
Slow burn romance between 2 men who, up until now, were straight.
Miguel's the 28-year-old goalie for the Grizzlies, Drew's the 40-year-old coach. Drew has an awful backstory - his wife and 5-year-old daughter died in a plane crash 6 years previous, and he's still trying to recover. Even though Drew & Miguel have been with the same team for years, for some reason, THIS is the year they finally notice each other in a romantic way. I enjoyed the slow pace of the romance (they don't kiss until half way through the book, there is no spice until 60% of the way through the book), and I loved the writing. There's not much angst in this book either - they do run into a situation with the team management over their relationship, but it's resolved fairly quickly - there's no third act breakup. This is just a nice, slow, calm romance between 2 adults.
Miguel's the 28-year-old goalie for the Grizzlies, Drew's the 40-year-old coach. Drew has an awful backstory - his wife and 5-year-old daughter died in a plane crash 6 years previous, and he's still trying to recover. Even though Drew & Miguel have been with the same team for years, for some reason, THIS is the year they finally notice each other in a romantic way. I enjoyed the slow pace of the romance (they don't kiss until half way through the book, there is no spice until 60% of the way through the book), and I loved the writing. There's not much angst in this book either - they do run into a situation with the team management over their relationship, but it's resolved fairly quickly - there's no third act breakup. This is just a nice, slow, calm romance between 2 adults.
November 30, 2025
This book has the tropes of hurt/comfort, age gap, and coach/player. Drew's wife and daughter dies in a plane crash six years ago, and he has been the coach of the LA Grizzlies, a minor league hockey team, for the past 5 years. Miguel is the goalie for the team. He is 28 years old and can feel his chance of being called up fading away. However, he loves the game and would feel guilty quitting after all the sacrifices his parents made so he could play. The two start off as coach and player but something begins to shift after they do the team podcast together. The two men become friends and then realize that they are falling in love with each other. However, they are not sure how it will affect the team and Drew's job as coach. I really liked how well they communicated with each other and how supportive they were of each other.
November 19, 2025
Kinda of a forbidden romance between a coach and his hockey player. Both Drew and Miguel are part of LA Grizzlies for 5 years. Until recently both have not looked at the other that way. Drew is getting over the devastating accident that took his wife and child.
While Miguel is trying to move up in the hockey world and is having a hard time understanding why he cannot. Both need something from the other to help them work on understanding their trauma and insecurities and to move forward. Miguel learns to accept where he is and be the best goalie he can and Drew learns to love again while not forgetting his wife and child.
Thank you to Booksprout and Denver Shaw for the ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review.
While Miguel is trying to move up in the hockey world and is having a hard time understanding why he cannot. Both need something from the other to help them work on understanding their trauma and insecurities and to move forward. Miguel learns to accept where he is and be the best goalie he can and Drew learns to love again while not forgetting his wife and child.
Thank you to Booksprout and Denver Shaw for the ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 23, 2025
Hearts on Fire is a slow burn romance between Miguel and Drew. Miguel is a goalie and Drew is his head coach. Drew lost his wife and daughter in a crash six years ago. Since then, he’s been focused exclusively on his job in an effort to continue on without them. Miguel has a loving close knit family but hasn’t found anyone that he wants to share his life with. What starts as a heightened awareness, becomes attraction and then finally love.
Their only obstacle is the coach/player dynamic. It doesn’t get resolved until the very end, but I was very happy with the ending. I really appreciated that there weren’t any big miscommunications or a third act breakup. It was just a lovely story about love and healing. I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest opinion.
Their only obstacle is the coach/player dynamic. It doesn’t get resolved until the very end, but I was very happy with the ending. I really appreciated that there weren’t any big miscommunications or a third act breakup. It was just a lovely story about love and healing. I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews