Ice Shy

Ottawa Otters Legends #1

by K.M. Gillis

Once burned...

Arthur “Ace” Stetson is a living legend. Once destined for a record-breaking NHL career, a devastating injury put him behind the bench instead. Now the league’s youngest head coach, his only goal is to lead the Ottawa Otters to their first Stanley Cup. It's going to take discipline, focus, and zero distractions—like the beautiful, chaotic new team physiotherapist.

Elliot Baker runs on caffeine and blind optimism. The single mom has three jobs, a mountain of debt, and absolutely no idea what day of the week it is. Her new job offers the stability she and her son, Sam, desperately need...if she can survive working with the gorgeous tyrant, Coach Stetson.

He needs a physiotherapist who will put up with him. She needs to keep her job.

He thrives on structure. She goes with the flow.

He demands results. She knows broken things need time to heal.

The more time they spend together, the more their attraction becomes impossible to ignore. And for two people who've been hurt before, falling for each other might be the riskiest play in the book.

Genres: Sports Romance, Hockey, Romance, Sports, Hockey Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 29, 2026

About the author

K.M. Gillis drinks a lot of strong, black coffee while she writes her flirty romcoms and sports romances. She has a playful sense of humour and a terrible sense of direction. She lives on Prince Edward Island with her husband and daughter.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmgillisaut...

Website: https://kmgillis.com/

Reviews

[Robin ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

First let me say thank you to KM Gillis for the chance to read and review Ice Shy.
Release date is April 29th

I love a good sports romance, and Ice Shy is definitely in my top 5 of this year!

•NHL head coach X physiotherapist
•single mom
•he falls first


I’m obsessed with Elliot and Arthur honestly.
Both were able to communicate so well.
Elliot felt so relatable. A single mother who literally has no idea what day of the week it is and currently battling 3 jobs.
Arthur, I really liked him. He is the head coach for the Ottawa Otters and the only goal ahead of him is winning the Stanley cup. You really get a good understanding of Arthur throughout the book. He is a man of structure and discipline and never asks for any help. So seeing him open up to Elliot was really amazing to watch.
His relationship with Sam was adorable and one of my favorite things about the entire book.


Honestly the whole book was a breath of fresh air. 5/5⭐️

[Mar books_baking_barks · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

I know we are all a little hockey romance crazy in the world right now, but man oh man did I love this book. I was shocked with how quickly I fell in love with Arthur and Elliot and their grumpy/sunshine dynamic. It’s my favourite trope for a reason! Also, I love when issues are solved through open communication and logical mature, thinking. It was a romance grounded in logic that’s still provided the dopamine hit my brain craves from reading this genre.

Arthur is the coach of the Ottawa otters NHL hockey team. Elliot is the team‘s new physiotherapist. Both are fiercely independent for their own reasons, but can they accept each other’s help to overcome their emotional baggage?

KM Gillis is an author I have followed since I started my bookstagram account a few years ago. I haven’t read her other hockey romances, but I loved this book so much I may have to go back to them. Ice Shy does read as a stand alone but some characters overlap with O Goalie Night and Check the Halls. I already can’t wait for the next book in this series!

[Callie Trainor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t have the words to express to you how much I enjoyed this book. K. M. Gillis creates the best feel good stories that leave you feeling 10x better than before you started reading. Every single book has left me smiling, but this one has instilled a feeling of giddiness I think I will carry for the next week!

Elliot and Arthur had such a tumultuous start to their relationship, and there were so many road blocks along the way. But, as I have loved about all of these books, they manage to be real adults about it and just communicate. I am also so glad that I got to see more of Sam and his awesomeness. His relationship with Ben in Check the Halls was so wholesome and it was really heartwarming to see him come even more out of his shell.

The release date for this book cannot come soon enough! Mark your calendars, April 29th! If you haven’t already, go read the first two books in the Ottawa Otters series for some context to this brand new spin off that I am positive everyone is going to fall head over heels in love with!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, K.M. Gillis, for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Ice Shy!

I was so excited to dive back into the Ottawa Otters world, and this one did not disappoint. Dare I say—it’s my favorite K.M. book I’ve read so far?? Don’t get me wrong, Foster James from O Goalie Night is still my #1 hockey boyfriend, but there’s something special in the pages of this book that just grabbed my heart and didn’t let go.

This book has some of my all-time favorite romance tropes:

Hockey romance
Grumpy/sunshine
Single mom with an amazing kid
Team coach x team physiotherapist
Rich/working class
Found family

All of these tropes come together to create a sweet, emotional story about two people who never put their own happiness first. Arthur is the head coach of the Ottawa Otters hockey team. Years earlier, a career-ending injury took him out of the game during what should have been his prime—something he’s never emotionally recovered from. Add in a difficult childhood and the worst father imaginable, and you’ve got a grumpy, stubborn, closed-off man who wouldn’t recognize happiness if it slapped him in the face.

Meanwhile, despite being dealt a rough hand as a young adult, Elliott does her best to keep a smile on her face for her 12-year-old son, Sam. As a single mom, she’s been working three jobs just to stay afloat, but things finally start to look up now that she’s landed a full-time position as a physiotherapist for the Otters.

Both Elliott and Arthur are dealing with their own struggles—Elliott with an ex-husband who’s threatening to make life difficult for Sam, and Arthur with the belief that he isn’t deserving of happiness or love. I had the best time watching that big, grumpy man slowly bring down his walls and accept the love he deserves. And Elliott—she truly deserved all the good things after sacrificing so much for Sam. Sam is the same age as my daughter, and my mama heart absolutely loved the bond between them. It was one of my favorite parts of the book.

All this to say: if you like hockey, if you like romance, and if you like stories that feel like a warm hug, I would absolutely recommend this book. It’s the first in a spinoff series, so you don’t have to read <1>O Goalie Night and Check the Halls first—but I definitely recommend them because they’re so good.

Looking forward to Noah’s book next!

[Jill (readinginpjs) · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you K.M. Gillis for the ARC, all opinions are my own.

I absolutely adored the dynamic between Elliot & Arthur (the teasing and banter!), and how their story developed 🥹
a
Both characters were so REAL, and relatable in different ways. As a mother, I could connect with Elliot’s desire to put her child first, and the love she has for her son.

I especially loved Arthur’s journey, as he grew from a stubborn grump to learning how to be in a healthy relationship. I’m not always a fan of a grump, but I felt his backstory really had me caring a lot for him. His relationship with Elliot's son Sam was so sweet, with so much respect going both ways.

I loved the overlap with K.M. Gillis’ Ottawa Otters series, both the players & their girlfriends. I’m looking forward to continuing both series!

✦ tropes & more:
🌦 grumpy sunshine
🏒 profesional hockey
📋 NHL head coach
👟 single mom + team physiotherapist
💙 he falls first + HARD
✨ age gap (32/42)
🇨🇦 Canadian author & setting
💞 dual 1st person pov

ebook | ⭐️: 4.5 | 🌶️: open door |

📖 Ice Shy by KM Gillis
📚 book 1 • Ottawa Otters Legends series
🏒: sports romance (mf)

*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍

[Rebecca Hearn-Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute, was almost a 5 star. Liked all the characters, and loved the communication between Elliot and Arthur. Was a very easy read, no complaints

[Jill (readinginpjs) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
RTC

[Mom_likestoread · Rating 5 out of 5]

K.M. Gillis is definitely an auto read and buy author for me. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for Ice Shy, and my pretty shelf trophy will be delivered on April 29th when the book releases.

This is the first book in the Ottawa Otters Legends series, which is connected to O Goalie Night and Check the Halls. This is the very best in grumpy/sunshine romances.

I knew I would love Arthur “Ace” Stetson, the coach of the Otters when it was mentioned that his career was cut short due to a terrible injury. He is a behemoth of a man who is reserved and stern, but who is completely dedicated to his team. I love a character that has to overcome such adversity.

Elliot is a single Mom with a terrible ex who has left her in debt. Despite all these issues she sees the bright side of things and works multiple jobs without complaint.

I could not love these two characters more, and hate her ex and his dad any more than I did. I was so completely invested in their journey that I was getting annoyed at any disruption to my reading.

The way that Arthur questioned whether he was good enough for Elliot and Sam, her son was heartbreaking, and to have him be so protective of her, was exactly what she deserved.

The fact that Ben and Foster and their ladies are part of the story added the extra layer of found family that I always love.

If you haven’t read K.M.’s books yet, I highly recommend you do.

[Kimmy Luepke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you KM Gillis for the joy of being an ARC reader! You write the coziest sports romances, a phrase I don’t think I’ve ever typed before. While I’ve never been in the professional sports realm, your stories feel so genuine. Romantic, yet authentic. I knew I was going to be hooked from the dedication alone.

Ice Shy is the first spin off from the Ottawa Otters series following the team’s coach (Arthur) and new physiotherapist (Elliot). Arthur is the grumpiest of the grumps and Elliot is pure sunshine despite the cards she’s been dealt. I loved watching Arthur find so many ways to care for Elliot. He seems to think he doesn’t know how to love but he’s so wrong! Watching his relationship grow with Sam, Elliot’s son, was so sweet.

Arthur and Elliot had their own personal obstacles to overcome, but they work through them together because “the best things in life are worth waiting for.” Highly recommend adding to your TBR!

Tropes:
NHL Coach x Team Physiotherapist
Grumpy Sunshine
Single Mom
Age Gap (10 years)

[Amilia Poling · Rating 5 out of 5]

And here I thought I couldn't KM Gillis and her Otters any more!! This book was really incredible, and I could NOT put it down!! Elliott was such a beautiful character, and getting to see her blossom in her new job and fight so hard for herself and her son was just incredible! I loved how she was so blunt and honest with Arthur, while fighting to maintain an open and healthy relationship with him! And Arthur himself was just grumpy, swoony, protective perfection!! The journey we got to see him make while healing and confronting his past was so wonderfully real, and the way that he pushed himself to grow and be better for Elliott and Sam was so incredible! These two were just everything!! Plus getting so much time with the Otters and their shenanigans was a blast!! I cannot wait for what is to come next in this series!! Overall this book was just so much fun, and had me giggling, kicking my feet, and swooning so hard!! 5 stars; 3 chili peppers

Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- He Falls First
- Age Gap
- Secret Relationship
- Single Mom
- Toxic Ex and Family

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helloooo my new favourite hockey romance? That takes place in my city?? Hell yeah, thank you so much K.M. Gillis for the ARC of Ice Shy!

This is my first book by this author but I will now be devouring her entire backlog, because this was so phenomenal that I read it in one sitting. The characters were SO authentic and mature, and the relationships (both platonic and romantic) actually felt real. You could especially feel the love between Elliot and Arthur, as well as how much Elliot loves her son.

I enjoyed Arthur’s progression with not only his healing but with being open to letting someone in, given how cantankerous he is in the beginning of the story. And his dynamic with Sam evolving was so touching. 🥹

It was also a real treat to read something set in my hometown, which is actually what drew me to this story in the first place! Though I can’t believe they’re choosing to live in Vanier (but that’s just me being a hater).

I really hope hockey romance lovers everywhere check this out on April 29th!

[Erin Genoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

- Dual POV
- NHL coach / physiotherapist
- workplace romance
-age gap
-single mom
-he falls first

Thank you KM Gillis for the advanced copy! I absolutely devoured her Ottawa Otters series!! I love hockey romance books and getting the perspective of coach and his life was perfect! Add a little workplace romance with new physiotherapist Elliot! She is a single mom with her 12 year old son trying to make ends meet due to her ex husband.
I LOVED the realistic aspect of this book showing problems and how they got through it. Both had past trauma and how they showed up for each other and understood how to deal with it! Also the dry sense of humor/ banter had me giggling!
Elliot also had such a fun and spunky personality which helps Arthur come out of his shell! These two just meshed so well together! Then adding her son Sam to the mix! Arthur was easy going and chill with becoming friends with Sam! Never pushed it and it blossomed into such a sweet relationship! Also loved seeing the players in the book! Can’t wait for the next book!

[Lucy-Elanor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much I did something I’ve never done with an ARC before….. I accidentally read the whole book in one go with a big smile on my face, I didn’t take down any notes or quotes and had to go back and reread some parts to make sure I gave it the ARC eye I had intended to.

Arthur’s idea of romance is a board room meeting and a contract to iron out the terms and conditions of a relationship. Elliot is too busy working multiple jobs, raising her son and dealing with her broken down car to even contemplate a relationship, so when they quite literally run into each other Arthur finds himself unable to think about anything other than seeing Elliot smile (or at least stop crying).

I really loved seeing the friendship blossom between both characters, seeing Arthur come out of his shell for Eliot and the lovely moments where he showed how much he cares with small gestures to support Eliot from the side lines.

[Alex S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC, but all opinions are my own.

Omg where do I start?! Ice Shy was the perfect combination of a captivating romance, fiery spice, and love for family! The Grumpy x Sunshine trope is one of my top favorite tropes so I was highly invested from the beginning.

I adore Elliot! I was a single mom until my husband came into the picture, so it was so nice to be able to relate to her in that way. She’s such a sweet, spunky, and likable character. Her relationship with her son is just beautiful, and the way Arthur was able to assimilate into their family was amazing to watch.

I also loved how we were able to watch Arthur work through his past and learn from those experiences. Watching him learn that he was enough made my soul so happy.

One more thing! If I don’t turn out to be like Reggie at 83 then I don’t want it 😂

I cannot wait for more in the Ottawa Otters and the Ottawa Otters Legends series! Thank you K.M. Gillis 💚💛

[Issy · Rating 4 out of 5]

reading this felt like coming home🥹

thank you so much @km for the opportunity to arc read again for you, it’s been such a joy.

im always a sucker for grumpy x sunshine and this book has no shortage of that. from the flirty banters to heartwarming moments, this book has it all.

i love the honest representations in this book, from being a single parent to having chronic injury—each character felt relatable, like getting to know them as real people.

their struggles, interactions, and day to day all seems so natural and normal making this book hit close to home.

returning to this world has been an absolute joy. the ottawa otters series is one of my favorite hockey romance series and having a new series off of that is so amazing!

tropes:
-NHL coach x team physiotherapist
-grumpy x sunshine
-age gap
-single mom
-he falls first and harder😉

[Kristen Shipley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book that I’ve read by K.M. Gillis, and it definitely won’t be my last. I really enjoyed Elliot and Arthur’s story—the hot-mess, just-trying-to-hold-it-all-together single mom physiotherapist paired with the grumpy Ottawa Otters coach made for such a fun and engaging dynamic. Their relationship felt authentic, with plenty of tension, humor, and heartfelt moments that kept me invested. Watching them navigate their personal struggles while slowly letting their guards down added depth to the romance. Overall, Ice Shy is a charming and emotional read that balances swoony moments with real-life challenges, and it left me excited to read more from this author.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot, a single mom, and Arthur a grumpy NHL coach- age gap, found family.

I was enjoying this one, it was pulling me out of my funk and then it kind of plateaued after Elliot and Arthur got together. I was loving the buildup.
Don't get me wrong, I still liked the book and that ending was a sweet one. However, I didn't care for the spiteful ex husband and I would have appreciated for some facets of the book to be more fully developed.

[Jamie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was simple and cute book. No big drama or fuss.

[Dori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this, 10/10 no notes. 😍
Cannot wait for the next book.

[Elin Olsson · Rating 1 out of 5]

Söt men kändes lite rushed och den behövde mer än bara två karaktärer som gillade varandra

[Isabelle Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** ARC Review *****
Ice Shy by K.M. Gillis

Ice Shy is one of those stories that quietly grabs your heart and won't let it go. It hooked me in from the very beginning and never let me go. The relationships feel lived-in, layered, and so naturally developed that I found myself completely invested in their journeys. (So invested I finished it in less than 4 hours..)

What stood out to me the most was how heartfelt and intimate the story felt without every spoiling the plot. There was a great balance of emotional tension with soft tender moments that make the characters feel real. They are flawed, gentle, stubborn, hopeful, and everything in between. I loved how personal this story felt.

This is a book that's emotional in the best way, the kind that lingers with you after you have read the last words. It is perfect for readers who love character driven stories, slow-unfurling connections, and writing that hits you right in the feels.

I am beyond grateful to have this opportunity- thank you so much K.M. Gillis for this amazing chance to read your beautifully written book. I cannot wait for the next one!

[Chloë · Rating 5 out of 5]

5✨

Publication date: 29th April 2026

Book 1, Ottawa Otters Legends series - can be read as a standalone but it does reference characters from the ‘Ottawa Otters’ series.

An age-gap, hockey romance for readers who enjoy -
🏒Found family
🏒Warm, authentic, genuine connections
🏒Grumpy v Sunshine
🏒He falls first & harder
🏒Ottawa Otters series (O Goalie Night & Check The Halls)


~ plot ~

☀️ She wants to melt his cold exterior.
❄️ He wants to ice her out.

Arthur ‘Ace’ Stetson’s only goal in life is to win the Stanley Cup. However, doing so as an NHL coach & not as a player? Not part of the plan. Thanks to a career ending injury that still, to this day affects him - a ray of sunshine he is not…

Enter Elliot Baker, a single Mom working around the clock to provide for her son Sam. Life hasn’t dealt her the best hand yet she still faces every day/task with a smile. That is, until she encounters the grouchy coach at her new NHL physiotherapy job.


~ review ~

This book turned me into a puddle on the floor in the VERY best way possible. The warm, genuine, authentic, emotional nature of Ice Shy its story, characters & relationships is such a gift. It balances real connections & depth with fantastic humour, banter & romance and I genuinely enjoyed every single second.

At its core, this is a fantastic love story that evolves at a smooth, natural pace. It’s a journey that involves breaking down walls, exposing vulnerabilities, overcoming obstacles, showing up for one another & learning to grow alongside someone. There’s back & forth banter, laugh out loud humour & spice that isn’t just there for the sake of it. It’s organically placed, meaningful, tasteful & emotional. Something I really appreciate & respect.

✅ Ice Shy is a book I would recommend far & wide. Whether you’re a hockey lover, romance reader or just someone who enjoys a warm, cosy, entertaining but emotional story, add this to your TBR - you will not regret it!


~ characters ~

Arthur is a man I have SO much time for. He’s an onion - layers, SO many layers! He appears stubborn & closed off but underneath, he’s hurting. His physical pain is a daily reminder of the dream he lost & the relationship he had with his father has left him feeling undeserving of love. There were so many times I wanted to give this man a hug!! But despite the pain, he’s someone who still manages to care deeply. He’s compassionate & wants those around him to succeed. For me, one of the most beautiful parts of this story was his growth. Seeing his walls come down, him opening up to Elliot & realising his worth - 10/10!

Elliot Baker, what a woman. Check The Halls introduced us to a strong, independent single Mom totally devoted to her son Sam & this book solidified that. She’s an absolute powerhouse. Despite a turbulent past, she’s strong, determined, bright & optimistic. Her relationship with Sam is absolutely beautiful, he’s the centre of her world & everything she does is for him. I love how chaotic she is & despite being a fictional character, her infectious bubbly persona is so strong that even as a reader, it leaves an impression. I feel like everyone could benefit from being more like Elliot.

Sam is a total credit to his Mom. Wise beyond his years, quick witted & super smart. They make a great team but Arthur really does feel like the missing piece. His relationship with Sam felt so real, it didn’t seem rushed or forced & that moment on the ice? Tears, real tears.


~ final thoughts ~

I’ll be honest, I went into this book feeling a little conflicted. For me, Check The Halls was everything & I just couldn’t see another book having the same effect. Well, I was wrong!!
Ice Shy climbed the pyramid faster than you can say Ottawa Otters & is now sitting pretty, right there at the top next to Check The Halls.

K. M. Gillis, you are a light, a talent & a master. May you never, ever stop sharing your writing with the world. It’s a pleasure to be part of your team & I can’t wait to see what comes next!!

A huge thank you to K. M. Gillis for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest opinion & I’m sharing it voluntarily❣️

[Mackenzie Burns · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
2 🌶️

Thank you to KM Gillis for the opportunity to read this book early as an advanced reader copy. Oh my goodness this book was so much fun. I loved this book, and more people need to be reading KM Gillis. I found her Holiday Hockey romances in December and fell in love with her writing and this book is no acception. What do you mean the grumpy coach falls in love with the single mom physiotherapist? If you love a Hockey romance where the coach gets to have his love story.. than I think you will really enjoy this one. As a sports romance girlie this was a great combo especially when it is set in Canada.

Elliot, Our FMC is a single mom to a young son who has been working hard to be to everything for everyone. After dealing with her ex who has been dealing with some shady business, Elliot has been collecting some odd jobs. From her cookie business and taking on now being a physiotherapist for the Ottawa Otters. What she didn’t realize when she took this job that the grumpy coach that was initally stand-offish would become the very person who would come into her life and be a person she could lean on.

Arthur, our MMC is the classic grumpy coach who has maintained control over his team the Ottawa Otters for a few years now. His team and the crew are very regimeted in what they do. Arthur having had an old injury that is part of their story connection point, as she develops a form of Physiotherapy for him to follow was such an interesting plotline. As KM used this “trope” in such a sweet way as he had been so reluctant to fixing his pains for so long, only for Elliot to finally push him to take care of himself. Arthur’s side plot with his dad, and how much of a crotchety old man, his old man was… made me mad for Arthur. As he couldn’t have a moment from his dad where he was simply proud of him. But ugh the drama towards the end and how it wraps up was so good.

The relationship between Elliot and Arthur starting out as a reluctance on his part to let her in, but once she entered into his orbit it, the man became obsessed. There was multiple points in their story where Arthur had expressed forms of “quiet love” towards Elliot that felt so genuine and real. One of the sweetest moments was when Elliot and her son were watching one of the games at the arena, they go up to buy snacks which her son Sam was using his money that he had earned from dog walking to pay for something nice. Only when paying to find out they were all already paid for. It only took a few moments for them to realize that it was Arthur. Of course, the spicy moments were SO good too and DAMN does coach Stetson does have a mouth on him. Plus Elliot… get it girl!! But going back to more wholesome moments, I how Arthur really took care with Sam, Elliot’s son and wanted to make sure that everything that was transpiring in the relationship that he was developing with his mom, he was supportive of. As Sam would be considered an “older” child within a single parent romance, so this wa so sweet. The whole Elliot’s birthday moment where Sam asks him to come… so sweet.

Tropes:
Single Mom
NHL Coach x Team Physiotherapist
He Falls First and harder
Grumpy x Sunshine
If you want more Canadian Indie romance especially sports romance! Try this one out.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

-NHL Coach
-Team Physiotherapist
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Single Mom
-He Falls First and Harder

Perfection. No notes 💜

I devoured this book and thank you so much for choosing me for an eARC!!!

Elliot, single mom, is starting her new job as a physiotherapist for the Ottawa Otters and almost runs over the head coach on her first day. Arthur is in constant pain from an old hockey injury. He pays Elliot to help him but the more time they spend together, the closer they get.

I read Gillis’ Ottawa Otters series and immediately loved her writing and the world.

Elliot is bubbly and quick on her feet, even calling Arthur out on his behavior. Arthur is grumpy and doesn’t show any emotion to anyone. I loved how she got him to open up to her and just be happier in general. They had emotional and physical growth that felt relatable.

Arthur’s emotional development was really well done. He had so many insecurities because of his dad, but was able to put all that aside and really show up for Sam. Sam probably doesn’t need a father figure, but Arthur was able to fill in that gap for him easily. Their moment on the ice 🥹
On that note, I liked how things with Elliot’s ex was handled. Some books just mention a crappy ex and we never see them again or there is all this built up for an anticlimactic scene. Shawn was sprinkled in throughout the book and the climatic scene, in my opinion, was excellent! I loved how Arthur is so protective over Elliot.
I also just loved the writing in general. Elliot and Arthur’s banter had me laughing out loud multiple times. I wasn’t bored for one second of this book.

“Same bat time? Same bat place?”
“But… you and I are not in a relationship” “Not yet, but we’re going to be.” (*me swooning*)
“Who taught you how to use emojis!!!”
-The dog cookie puns 🤣

I loved watching him show her how he cared,

-Bringing her coffee and a breakfast sandwich after she said she never has time or forgets to eat breakfast.
-Creating the Otters Youth Volunteer initiate specially for her son Sam.
-Letting her use a company car
-Offering to “take care of” her ex 🤣

Sam also deserves his own shoutout. He is an awesome kid that is just as quick witted as his mother.

-Telling Arthur his mother is allergic to flowers
-Reminding Arthur about her birthday
“I’m on a field trip. Meet my class”

The spice was great as well 🥵. They both had insecurities of being together physically but just like previous books, Gillis does an excellent job! Also, it didn’t feel like smut for smuts sake. With his physical pain and how their relationship developed, the scenes were impactful and showed their connection to each other.

“I’ve come to your room to service you. There’s a difference.”

Overall this was more than a 5 star read for me and I cannot wait for the next one 🥰. I am hoping maybe we get a bonus chapter or more of them in the next book. The epilogue didn’t quench any remaining thirst I have for more of Elliot and Arthur. Not to say that I didn’t love how it ended.

[The Bern Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★★½
ARC Review:
I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date: April 29, 2026

Standalone or Series: Book One in a Series of Interconnected standalones (Ottawa Otters Legends Series)
While separate from the Ottawa Otters series, the characters from those stories do appear in this one. They do not play a major role, so there is no need to read them first — although I do recommend it!).
POV: First Person, Dual
Genre: Contemporary Sports Romance
Vibe: Wholesome
Pacing: Medium
Third-Act Breakup: No
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Cliffhanger: No
Reread-worthy:Yes

Tropes:
✵Age Gap
✵Coach x Physiotherapist
✵Single Mom
✵He Falls First

Synopsis: After a career ending injury, Arthur took over the role as coach for the Ottawa Otters. Once assumed to be the next legend in the NHL, Arthur now has to face the reality that he will never be the same hockey player he was before. After refusing many training exercises over the years, his injury never fully healed. But when Elliot, the smart-mouthed new team physiotherapist believes she can help him heal from his old injury, he begrudgingly accepts her help. He knows he can’t have her and he needs to keep his distance, but as the two work together, he starts to realize that maybe what he can’t have is exactly what he needs.

My Thoughts: K.M. Gillis has never let me down! I love her writing and the Ottawa Otters are one of my favorite fictional hockey teams! Arthur may be my favorite character of K.M.’s yet! I loved his dry sense of humor and his compassion that he had for all his players. Elliott was just what Arthur needed to heal from his past trauma. Elliott was jugging a million things at once with being a single mother, but still found a way to show Arthur that he mattered and he deserved happiness. I also loved seeing Arthur and Sam grow a bond! We met Sam previously in Check the Halls as Ben’s “little brother,” and he was so cute in this story too! I will always continue to recommend K.M. Gillis, and I am excited to see where this series goes next!


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[Jessica Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of Icy Shy by K.M. Gillis, releasing April 29th.

This one had such a good balance of soft and tense moments. It leans into that grumpy x sunshine energy, but in a way that feels natural, especially with the added layers of the hockey world and the single mom storyline. The NHL coach and physiotherapist dynamic worked really well and gave them a reason to be around each other without it feeling forced.

Arthur’s character arc is really what made this story stand out to me. Watching him struggle with letting someone in, while also actively trying to be better than his father, felt real. You could see how much his past affected him, but instead of letting it define him, he slowly learned that he was capable of loving Elliott fully and in a healthy way. That growth didn’t feel rushed either, which I appreciated.

One of my favorite parts of the book was how he showed up for Sam. It wasn’t just about falling in love with Elliott, it was about choosing both of them. Seeing him step into that role and become a steady, caring father figure, despite his own experiences growing up, was honestly one of the most meaningful parts of the story for me. He didn’t let his past dictate the kind of man he could be, and that really stuck with me.

Overall, this is the kind of love story that feels easy to come back to. Not because it’s simple, but because it’s grounded in growth, patience, and people learning how to love each other in the ways that actually matter. Watching the characters slowly open up, trust each other, and become better versions of themselves together was really satisfying. It felt like they built something solid, not just something intense in the moment.

The romance and spice were there, but it never overshadowed the emotional development, which I liked. It felt balanced and intentional.

I do wish we got a little more of them just existing together toward the end. Things like more of their life as a unit, maybe even seeing bigger milestones, but at the same time, I really loved where it left off. Arthur fully stepping into that father figure role and embracing the life he built with Elliott and Sam felt like the perfect note to end on.

This is definitely one I can see myself rereading.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arthur “Ace” Stetson and Elliot Baker might be one of the most relatable couples I’ve read in a long time. Their story felt honest, grounded, and full of the kind of quiet growth that makes a romance really stick with you.

Arthur is all structure, discipline, and control, while Elliot is chaos, caffeine, and blind optimism. On paper, they shouldn’t work, but somehow they balance each other perfectly. Watching Elliot slowly soften Arthur’s edges while he becomes a steady presence in her chaotic world was one of my favorite parts of this story.

I also really loved the later-in-life aspect of their relationship. Both of them carry baggage, busy schedules, and responsibilities, especially Elliot as a single mom. Their romance unfolds slowly and naturally, with moments that felt awkward, tender, and incredibly real. Their first steps into intimacy especially felt honest for two people who haven’t been in relationships in a long time, and I appreciated how grounded those moments were.

Arthur’s growth is what truly made this story stand out for me. Watching him work through his past, confront his fears of letting someone in, and ultimately choose Elliot and Sam was incredibly meaningful. It wasn’t just about falling in love, it was about becoming the kind of man he wanted to be, despite the example he was given growing up.

Elliot was just as wonderful. She’s caring, optimistic, and fiercely devoted to her son. I loved how she pours so much of herself into others, while also learning that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. As a mom, that part of her felt especially relatable.

And Sam was such a standout character. He felt like a real child — smart, funny, and an important part of Elliot and Arthur’s relationship rather than just being pushed to the side.

Overall, Ice Shy is a soft, emotional, and beautifully grounded romance about healing, growth, and learning to let someone in. Arthur and Elliot build something steady and meaningful together, and I honestly wasn’t ready to leave their little world by the end.

[Nova McCormack · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know those books you start and everything just hits that perfect rhythm? The pacing flows, the story pulls you in, and suddenly you’re wrapped up in this little book bubble you never want to leave. That is this book.

We have Elliott, who we met in Check the Halls. She’s a single mom working three jobs, just trying to get by. She is an amazing mother to her 12 year old son, Sam. Now yes, this is Elliott’s story, but we all needed more Sam. He completely stole the show. I’m already hoping for a next generation series because I need to see where life takes him.

Sorry, tangent… now back to Elliott.

Elliott is that FMC you know and love, constantly juggling too much, and somehow nothing ever seems to go quite right. She’s a beautiful, relatable soul whose number one priority is her son. She’s struggling, but her determination and optimism make it work. She’s not looking for help, yet she’s always the first to offer it, and just someone you can’t help but completely fall for.

Then there’s Arthur. Hockey is his entire world. Raised by a former player, his life was never about love and affection, it was drills, pressure, and criticism. Being shaped to be one thing has left him emotionally closed off. But then Elliott storms into his life like a blonde haired hurricane, nearly knocking him off his feet, literally. And suddenly she’s all he can think about, and he doesn’t want it to stop.

This is that perfect grumpy x sunshine read. Their connection feels so natural and organic, built on vulnerability and quiet understanding. Neither of them really knows what they’re doing when it comes to love, but the pull between them is undeniable, and they both know it’s a risk worth taking.

It’s seamless and addictive. Funny, heartfelt, and completely swoon worthy. My feet were kicking the whole time. This is one of those books I know I’ll come back to. There’s just something about the found family, the care, and the ease of it all that completely stole my heart.

Thank you so much K.M. Gillis for this gifted copy!

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the thing I love the most about KM Gillis books is how deeply and beautifully she allows us to get to know and love these characters. Meeting Elliot in check the halls I instantly knew I needed more of her. I wanted to see her find a love just as consuming as I knew she was so deserving of.

Elliot pours so much of herself into others and you can tell she loves deeply and fiercely, I also admire how she’s so helpful and caring to to others but knows it’s also okay to ask for help,she refers to this as a strength and I think that’s a message I’m taking away from this one. To know it’s okay to divide the work load it doesn’t have to be solely on your shoulders

Arthur is very much a product of the world he was raised in and my heart hurt for him but watching this journey and knowing what happens I’m so proud of him. He is so afraid of letting people in fear of what if they see something and they don’t like it what if they won’t stay? And that hit home.

I also need to mention about how Elliot is an inspiration of a mother,she makes it clear Sam is her life,her world and nothing and no one is above that and as a mom I am the same and I related to her in that and reading how she talks about Sam was so beautiful.

Arthur and Elliot are absolutely beautiful together,they complement so perfectly. Her with all her favourites and him with his not knowings. I would gladly spend another 300 pages with them and I’m not ready to be out of that little duplex with the rocket shaped cookies

This was truly amazing,I cried , I laughed and I learned so much about myself. Thank you KM Gillis for sharing Arthur with us and that we are loveable despite feeling like we may not be & for Elliot that the right person will forever embrace your chaos & that it’s okay to be both strong,independent and lean on others


Thank you to KM Gillis for this arc in exchange for a honest review
I loved it so much

[Bookish Brunette · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 🌟 Thank you so much to K.M. Gillis for the advanced copy of Ice Shy! Over the Christmas season, I discovered the Ottawa Otters in her previous books, "O Goalie Night" and "Check the Halls" and ever since I have been wishing for more! So, imagine my absolute beside myself excitement when I saw that "Ice Shy" was coming out and that it would follow some other members of the Otters family.

Ice Shy follows Ottawa Otters super serious and sometimes grumpy coach, Arthur "Ace" Stetson and team physiotherapist Elliot, who basically emits rays of sunshine every time she opens her mouth...except for when she's putting Ace in his place for being stubborn, that is. Between Arthur's refusal to lighten up and consider the fact that he may deserve some happiness and Elliot's insistence on making him smile, despite her having a few cracks of her own, the unlikely pair seems to be set up to combust..one way or another.

I loved both of these characters! It made me so happy to get to see glimpses of the players from the Ottawa Otters Christmas books as well. I loved that we got a deeper look into Elliot and Sam's lives after briefly meeting them in "Check the Halls." I thought that Ace and Elliot complimented each other very well, each filling each other's gaps where they needed them. If I had to have a complaint (and I really don't, so this isn't really a complaint), it would be that Ace was slightly too robotic at times and, although I get that he was supposed to be unfamiliar with affection and love, he at times seemed like he may be from another planet. Even with that though, he was lovable and I loved watching him change and grow. I am very grateful to the author for sparing me the heartache of a third act breakup, because I don't think I could have taken it with this two.

I definitely recommend this book for all lovers of hockey romance and the grumpy sunshine trope. The team is the found family we all need and I can't wait for more Ottawa Otters books!