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Blue Devils Hockey #4
Test the Ice
A flirty, fake-engagement, single-mom, hockey romance by Amazon Top 50 and USA Today Bestselling Author S.J. Sylvis
I swore off men the second I trusted the wrong guy and ended up pregnant by a wealthy playboy. I was ready to prove I didn't need him--or anyone else.
At least, until Malaki Young, Chicago's hottest pro hockey star, slid into the backseat of my car and proved me wrong.
He's relentless on and off the ice. Especially when it comes to pursing me. Not to mention his charming smirk and annoyingly smooth one-liners have me testing the ice and unthawing every boundary I swore I'd never cross again.
But my ex is out for revenge... and Malaki makes an offer I never saw coming: a fake engagement.
One oversize diamond. One perfectly fabricated love story. One mission: convince the world--and my revenge driven ex--that this single mom just landed one of Chicago's most sought-after bachelors.
Malaki swears it's just pretend. But the deeper we get, the harder it is to tell where the lies end and we begin. And I can't help wondering how long before the ice beneath us gives way.
I swore off men the second I trusted the wrong guy and ended up pregnant by a wealthy playboy. I was ready to prove I didn't need him--or anyone else.
At least, until Malaki Young, Chicago's hottest pro hockey star, slid into the backseat of my car and proved me wrong.
He's relentless on and off the ice. Especially when it comes to pursing me. Not to mention his charming smirk and annoyingly smooth one-liners have me testing the ice and unthawing every boundary I swore I'd never cross again.
But my ex is out for revenge... and Malaki makes an offer I never saw coming: a fake engagement.
One oversize diamond. One perfectly fabricated love story. One mission: convince the world--and my revenge driven ex--that this single mom just landed one of Chicago's most sought-after bachelors.
Malaki swears it's just pretend. But the deeper we get, the harder it is to tell where the lies end and we begin. And I can't help wondering how long before the ice beneath us gives way.
348 pages, Paperback
Published October 23, 2025
312 people are currently reading
1934 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Sylvis
30 books2,681 followersS.J. Sylvis is an Amazon top 50 and USA Today bestselling author who is best known for her angsty new adult romances and romantic comedies. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two small kiddos, and dog. She is obsessed with coffee, becomes easily attached to fictional characters, and spends most of her evenings buried in a book.
For upcoming info on new releases, join her Facebook reading group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/21537...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 532 reviews
October 24, 2025
Test the Ice (Blue Devils Hockey, #4) by S.J. Sylvis
5/5 stars
This book has so, so much heart. Right from the first page I was blanketed in a warm and homey feel and it held me tight all the way through.
The book starts with Reese who is a single mother and is ubering to make ends meet. Her sister Zoe is a college student and the three of them live together. Zoe helps out any way she can. I love how feisty, headstrong and protective Zoe is of her older sister and niece. She is unapologetically herself and I love, love, love her with all my heart.
One night Reese is supposed to uber her friend Daisy. But when Malaki spots her he jumps into her uber and things instantly ignite between the two of them. Maliki is intensely drawn to her and he wants to make her smile at all costs.
Reese tries to keep him at arms length but a smile does creep onto her face. But she quickly realizes her life is a mess. Charleigh's father Benedict is obsessed with Reese and wants her back no matter what. Reese is supportive of him being a father, but she doesn't want to get into a relationship with him. Benedict is solely focused on Reese and ignores his daughter. He quickly realizes Reese isn't easily persuaded back into his arms, and he starts threatening her with taking custody from her.
Malaki is such a brilliant character. Yes, he is physically drawn to Reese. But he isn't just feeling lust. Malaki's heart beats on her smiles and he instantly has this protective need to help and protect her. He is such a kind hearted and genuine character. And he sees the woman behind the facade she is holding up as a fierce wall.
And when Benedict spots them making out, Reese panics and blurts that Malaki is her fiance. Benedict doesn't believe her, but Malaki instantly jumps on the wagon and from that moment on he becomes her and Charleigh's fierce protector and fake fiance.
I admire how strong willed Reese is. How she sets boundaries and isn't taking advantage of Malaki whatsoever. Haha, but her sweet little sister has no problem moving into a big and clean house and I love how Zoe encourages Reese to follow her heart.
The bond between Malaki and Charleigh was the highlight of the book for me. I loved them together. And I love how little Charleigh claims her dada right from the get go.
This book isn't just a romance with hot scenes. This book has so much depth and Reese's fear is so palpable. And Malaki is truly a one of a kind man. I love how he loves. And how he protects. How present he is. How he doesn't force his lust or love upon Reese. He is there, every single time, a solid rock she can lean on.
Gosh, this book stole my heart. 5 huge stars from me for Test the Ice!
5/5 stars
This book has so, so much heart. Right from the first page I was blanketed in a warm and homey feel and it held me tight all the way through.
The book starts with Reese who is a single mother and is ubering to make ends meet. Her sister Zoe is a college student and the three of them live together. Zoe helps out any way she can. I love how feisty, headstrong and protective Zoe is of her older sister and niece. She is unapologetically herself and I love, love, love her with all my heart.
One night Reese is supposed to uber her friend Daisy. But when Malaki spots her he jumps into her uber and things instantly ignite between the two of them. Maliki is intensely drawn to her and he wants to make her smile at all costs.
Reese tries to keep him at arms length but a smile does creep onto her face. But she quickly realizes her life is a mess. Charleigh's father Benedict is obsessed with Reese and wants her back no matter what. Reese is supportive of him being a father, but she doesn't want to get into a relationship with him. Benedict is solely focused on Reese and ignores his daughter. He quickly realizes Reese isn't easily persuaded back into his arms, and he starts threatening her with taking custody from her.
Malaki is such a brilliant character. Yes, he is physically drawn to Reese. But he isn't just feeling lust. Malaki's heart beats on her smiles and he instantly has this protective need to help and protect her. He is such a kind hearted and genuine character. And he sees the woman behind the facade she is holding up as a fierce wall.
And when Benedict spots them making out, Reese panics and blurts that Malaki is her fiance. Benedict doesn't believe her, but Malaki instantly jumps on the wagon and from that moment on he becomes her and Charleigh's fierce protector and fake fiance.
I admire how strong willed Reese is. How she sets boundaries and isn't taking advantage of Malaki whatsoever. Haha, but her sweet little sister has no problem moving into a big and clean house and I love how Zoe encourages Reese to follow her heart.
The bond between Malaki and Charleigh was the highlight of the book for me. I loved them together. And I love how little Charleigh claims her dada right from the get go.
This book isn't just a romance with hot scenes. This book has so much depth and Reese's fear is so palpable. And Malaki is truly a one of a kind man. I love how he loves. And how he protects. How present he is. How he doesn't force his lust or love upon Reese. He is there, every single time, a solid rock she can lean on.
Gosh, this book stole my heart. 5 huge stars from me for Test the Ice!
Currently reading
October 24, 2025Available now!
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Amazon: mybook.to/bluedevilsfour
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Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: mybook.to/bluedevilsfour
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/4oGdoJf
October 21, 2025
Reese Moreno has no time to date, not to mention she’s renounced men after her last relationship turned disastrous. Yet Malaki Young is different in all the right ways. He’s kind, quick to come to her aid, relentless in his pursuit of her, and is always stocked with Skittles, her emotional support candy.
When Reese makes a split-second decision, Malaki not only rolls with it, he doubles down.
If you’ve been around for a while, you know that single parent is not one of my favorite tropes. However, I am so invested in the series and its characters that it’s a moot point. Besides that, I just knew I was going to love these two as soon as Daisy opened the car door to reveal Reese in Rush the Edge and they did not disappoint!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🩶
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😊🫠🥺🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): New Adult, Sports
✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity, One Bed, Opposites Attract, Pro Athlete, Rich Boy x Poor Girl, Single Parent
💫 Microtropes: Boy Obsessed, “Good Girl”, Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Pet Name, Who Hurt You?
💋 Kinks: Phone Fun, Praise
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
📍 Setting: Chicago
⚠️ Warning: This sweet read will leave your panties damp and your cheeks flushed.
🚩 Safety Squad: OW/OM Drama (Ex Douche, One Sided)
📣 Type: Test the Ice is part of the Blue Devils Hockey series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
When Reese makes a split-second decision, Malaki not only rolls with it, he doubles down.
If you’ve been around for a while, you know that single parent is not one of my favorite tropes. However, I am so invested in the series and its characters that it’s a moot point. Besides that, I just knew I was going to love these two as soon as Daisy opened the car door to reveal Reese in Rush the Edge and they did not disappoint!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🩶
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😊🫠🥺🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): New Adult, Sports
✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity, One Bed, Opposites Attract, Pro Athlete, Rich Boy x Poor Girl, Single Parent
💫 Microtropes: Boy Obsessed, “Good Girl”, Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Pet Name, Who Hurt You?
💋 Kinks: Phone Fun, Praise
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
📍 Setting: Chicago
⚠️ Warning: This sweet read will leave your panties damp and your cheeks flushed.
🚩 Safety Squad: OW/OM Drama (Ex Douche, One Sided)
📣 Type: Test the Ice is part of the Blue Devils Hockey series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
October 22, 2025
ALL. THE. STARS. for this book!! I legit devoured it in one sitting because how do you stop reading something this good?!
Reese is such a strong, independent single mom, doing everything she can to protect her daughter, Charleigh while dealing with her obsessive ex. She’s closed off and guarded (for good reason), but Malaki? Oh my god, Malaki. This man is perfect!! Funny, kind, protective, and falls hard and fast.. not just for Reese, but for little Charleigh too 🥹. He’s exactly what they both needed, and the way he loves them? Instant puddle.
The chemistry between them was INSANE. Like, off-the-charts, heart-eyes-everywhere level. The banter, the sweetness, the swoon… everything about their story just worked. I was smiling, laughing, and melting the entire time.
Also, Zoe (Reese’s sister) absolutely stole the show! She’s chaotic, protective, and just downright hilarious. I need her book next, because this girl had me laughing out loud at 1 a.m.
This book easily became one of my favorites in the series. The Blue Devils crew will forever have my heart, and I’m not ready to say goodbye yet! 🥺
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Single Mom
❤️🔥 Fake Engagement
❤️🔥 Close Proximity
❤️🔥 He Falls First
❤️🔥 One Bed
Reese is such a strong, independent single mom, doing everything she can to protect her daughter, Charleigh while dealing with her obsessive ex. She’s closed off and guarded (for good reason), but Malaki? Oh my god, Malaki. This man is perfect!! Funny, kind, protective, and falls hard and fast.. not just for Reese, but for little Charleigh too 🥹. He’s exactly what they both needed, and the way he loves them? Instant puddle.
The chemistry between them was INSANE. Like, off-the-charts, heart-eyes-everywhere level. The banter, the sweetness, the swoon… everything about their story just worked. I was smiling, laughing, and melting the entire time.
Also, Zoe (Reese’s sister) absolutely stole the show! She’s chaotic, protective, and just downright hilarious. I need her book next, because this girl had me laughing out loud at 1 a.m.
This book easily became one of my favorites in the series. The Blue Devils crew will forever have my heart, and I’m not ready to say goodbye yet! 🥺
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Single Mom
❤️🔥 Fake Engagement
❤️🔥 Close Proximity
❤️🔥 He Falls First
❤️🔥 One Bed
October 28, 2025
let this be Reese and Malaki's story!!
this was in fact - Reese and Malaki's story.
this was good, fake engagement, insta-love, good spice and no 3rd act break-up :3
this was in fact - Reese and Malaki's story.
this was good, fake engagement, insta-love, good spice and no 3rd act break-up :3
October 23, 2025
Oh my-lanta… the way that Reese and Malaki have my whole heart. I truly don't know how Sammi keeps doing it but she keeps giving me the most binge worthy hockey romances that I can not put down. I straight devoured this book in less than 24 hours. You couldn't pry this one out of my cold dead hands if you tried. I was sucked in from chapter one. I also have never been more invested in a fictional characters love story.
I do want to start off with saying that I have loved every single book in the Blue Devils Hockey series. Each one of these boys are so vastly different and with every book, I'm like I dont know how Sammi will top the last book but then she delivers perfection and the last book in the series, was so worth the wait. I'm literally sat and gagged over this book. I loved the plot so much. I loved the originality of Reese being an Uber driver and Malaki requesting uber after uber until Reese was his drive. Like SWOON! The dedication of this man was unmatched.
Reese and Malaki had some serious chemistry and tension. They made me laugh with their banter. The text bubbles were top tier. I kicked my feet like a school girl, had butterflies and even blushed from the things Malaki told Reese. The way this man was so protective over her and her daughter made me so weak in the knees. Not to mention the way he fully embraced Charleigh as his own. And the way he knocked down her walls to gain her trust. ROUND OF APPLAUSE for this walking, talking green flag!
Sammi, this one was truly so perfect! You did it again. And I am so sad to say goodbye to these boys. But I know whatever you give me next I will straight DEVOUR it and say thank you!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Hockey Romance
- Fake Engagement
- Single Mom
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Close Proximity
- One Bed
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to SJ Sylvis for allowing me the pleasure to read this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
I do want to start off with saying that I have loved every single book in the Blue Devils Hockey series. Each one of these boys are so vastly different and with every book, I'm like I dont know how Sammi will top the last book but then she delivers perfection and the last book in the series, was so worth the wait. I'm literally sat and gagged over this book. I loved the plot so much. I loved the originality of Reese being an Uber driver and Malaki requesting uber after uber until Reese was his drive. Like SWOON! The dedication of this man was unmatched.
Reese and Malaki had some serious chemistry and tension. They made me laugh with their banter. The text bubbles were top tier. I kicked my feet like a school girl, had butterflies and even blushed from the things Malaki told Reese. The way this man was so protective over her and her daughter made me so weak in the knees. Not to mention the way he fully embraced Charleigh as his own. And the way he knocked down her walls to gain her trust. ROUND OF APPLAUSE for this walking, talking green flag!
Sammi, this one was truly so perfect! You did it again. And I am so sad to say goodbye to these boys. But I know whatever you give me next I will straight DEVOUR it and say thank you!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Hockey Romance
- Fake Engagement
- Single Mom
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Close Proximity
- One Bed
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to SJ Sylvis for allowing me the pleasure to read this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
October 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Reese & Malaki are here!!
💕🏒💕🏒
I love a fake engagement when a single mom is involved.
Malaki was all the green flags.
Golden retriever hockey boy.
Him and Charleigh was the cutest.
The perfect baby.
Reese: the Uber driver, single mom, crappy upbringing, and awful ex/baby daddy.
I did feel her dreams and future was skimmed over.
I think everything, all the tropes here, were done well.
The compatibility of these two was perfect.
There was drama but it was also sweet.
Another great hockey series.
Arc review ✨
Reese & Malaki are here!!
💕🏒💕🏒
I love a fake engagement when a single mom is involved.
Malaki was all the green flags.
Golden retriever hockey boy.
Him and Charleigh was the cutest.
The perfect baby.
Reese: the Uber driver, single mom, crappy upbringing, and awful ex/baby daddy.
I did feel her dreams and future was skimmed over.
I think everything, all the tropes here, were done well.
The compatibility of these two was perfect.
There was drama but it was also sweet.
Another great hockey series.
Arc review ✨
December 9, 2025
“𝓘 𝓭𝓸𝓷’𝓽 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝓵𝓾𝓬𝓴, 𝓘’𝓿𝓮 𝓰𝓸𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾!”
This ALC had me in a chokehold. I usually don’t listen to books on the weekends, but I could not stop listening to this one. Liam Dicosimo and Vanessa Vasquez did FANTASTIC as Malaki and Reese. They made the book funny, emotional, and overall just entertaining.
I loved Reese. She was sassy, stubborn, smart, a great friend, sister and mother. She was doing everything in her power to prove that she was a great mom, especially to her ex, who I think it one of my most hated characters ever. She and her sister had to go through a lot growing up and she struggles with letting others help her. So, I just loved when Malaki came in and showed her that while she’s a strong, independent woman, it’s okay to ask for help.
Malaki Young. This man is the ultimate green flag, golden retriever, fake fiancé. He was down bad from he moment he laid eyes on Reese. Just like Reese, he was stubborn and literally did everything he could to spend more time with her. I loved his persistence and how he didn’t hesitate to jump in and go with Reese’s fake fiancé story. He formed such a great relationship with Charleigh, Reese’s daughter and Reese’s sister, Zoe. I loved his friendship with the guys on the team too.
These two had chemistry from he very beginning. While it was spicy, I felt like their connection went deeper. I loved how Malaki understood Reese’s fears and how he tried his best to reassure and support her. These two were just so perfect together.
Overall, I would 1,000% recommend this audiobook, especially if you love a pro hockey player x single mom, fake engagement, close proximity, he falls first romance. It was one of the easiest five star reads for me.
Thank you to SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for the ALC for an honest review.
This ALC had me in a chokehold. I usually don’t listen to books on the weekends, but I could not stop listening to this one. Liam Dicosimo and Vanessa Vasquez did FANTASTIC as Malaki and Reese. They made the book funny, emotional, and overall just entertaining.
I loved Reese. She was sassy, stubborn, smart, a great friend, sister and mother. She was doing everything in her power to prove that she was a great mom, especially to her ex, who I think it one of my most hated characters ever. She and her sister had to go through a lot growing up and she struggles with letting others help her. So, I just loved when Malaki came in and showed her that while she’s a strong, independent woman, it’s okay to ask for help.
Malaki Young. This man is the ultimate green flag, golden retriever, fake fiancé. He was down bad from he moment he laid eyes on Reese. Just like Reese, he was stubborn and literally did everything he could to spend more time with her. I loved his persistence and how he didn’t hesitate to jump in and go with Reese’s fake fiancé story. He formed such a great relationship with Charleigh, Reese’s daughter and Reese’s sister, Zoe. I loved his friendship with the guys on the team too.
These two had chemistry from he very beginning. While it was spicy, I felt like their connection went deeper. I loved how Malaki understood Reese’s fears and how he tried his best to reassure and support her. These two were just so perfect together.
Overall, I would 1,000% recommend this audiobook, especially if you love a pro hockey player x single mom, fake engagement, close proximity, he falls first romance. It was one of the easiest five star reads for me.
Thank you to SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for the ALC for an honest review.
October 21, 2025
Full RTC but I knew I was gonna love this one!!
==================================
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
📚 Book 4 in the interconnected Standalone Series "Blue Devils Hockey"
🗣️ Dual POV
🏒 Hockey Romance [Single Mom x Hockey Player]
🖤 M/F
S.J. Sylvis is now a 1 click author for me. I have absolutely loved all of her Blue Devils books, but I have really been awaiting Malaki's book since being introduced to this man in Skate The Line, and then falling more for him in Rush The Edge.
Malaki is "considered" a player but honestly I never actually saw him like that. He's a good guy who is always down to help his friends. He deals with his trauma by being "funny" but when he turns serious, you better watch out.
Reese we meet briefly in Rush The Edge when she becomes friends with Daisy. Reese is a strong independent FMC who has been given a shit hand in life and is doing everything she can to provide for her sister and her daughter no matter what.
I love them together, I adore how Malaki immediately wants to just spend time with Reese. He is exactly what she needs to help her deal with that asshat Benedict that needs to be killed off. Thats a whole other rant honestly! But Malaki and Reese + Charleigh = Forever 🖤. I will also never get over how much Malaki keeps saying "Future Mrs. Young" 😍
==================================
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
📚 Book 4 in the interconnected Standalone Series "Blue Devils Hockey"
🗣️ Dual POV
🏒 Hockey Romance [Single Mom x Hockey Player]
🖤 M/F
S.J. Sylvis is now a 1 click author for me. I have absolutely loved all of her Blue Devils books, but I have really been awaiting Malaki's book since being introduced to this man in Skate The Line, and then falling more for him in Rush The Edge.
Malaki is "considered" a player but honestly I never actually saw him like that. He's a good guy who is always down to help his friends. He deals with his trauma by being "funny" but when he turns serious, you better watch out.
Reese we meet briefly in Rush The Edge when she becomes friends with Daisy. Reese is a strong independent FMC who has been given a shit hand in life and is doing everything she can to provide for her sister and her daughter no matter what.
I love them together, I adore how Malaki immediately wants to just spend time with Reese. He is exactly what she needs to help her deal with that asshat Benedict that needs to be killed off. Thats a whole other rant honestly! But Malaki and Reese + Charleigh = Forever 🖤. I will also never get over how much Malaki keeps saying "Future Mrs. Young" 😍
October 23, 2025
ARC Review: 5⭐️
Test the Ice is book 4 in the Blue Devils Hockey series trusting Malaki Young & Reese Moreno.
Reese is a struggling single mom who’s been driving Uber to make ends meat. One night on a call she accompanies her rider into the casino to get her friend, and that is where she meets Malaki.
Malaki is a star forward for the Blue Devils and all around funny guy. He’s immediately drawn to Reese and wants to get to know her. One night he’s determined to spend time with her that he picks through drivers until he finds her.
While they’re together, the tension between them snaps and they kiss. While they’re making out, Reese’s baby daddy shows up and interrupts them. He continues to threaten Reese that he’s going to take her for custody of their daughter, and Reese tells him that Malaki is her fiancée.
Malaki is thrilled with the idea and has Reese, her sister and her daughter move in with him. Reese is always reminding him that it’s fake, but he’s determined to show her how it could be if they together for real.
When Charleigh’s dad comes through with his threats on fighting for custody, Reese must fight tooth and nail not to lose. Will Malaki be able to swoop in and save the day?
I adored this book and these characters ! The way Malaki treated not only Reese, but her sister and Charleigh too had me so in love with him! He quickly became my favourite blue devil!
Thank you SJ for the ARC!!
Test the Ice is book 4 in the Blue Devils Hockey series trusting Malaki Young & Reese Moreno.
Reese is a struggling single mom who’s been driving Uber to make ends meat. One night on a call she accompanies her rider into the casino to get her friend, and that is where she meets Malaki.
Malaki is a star forward for the Blue Devils and all around funny guy. He’s immediately drawn to Reese and wants to get to know her. One night he’s determined to spend time with her that he picks through drivers until he finds her.
While they’re together, the tension between them snaps and they kiss. While they’re making out, Reese’s baby daddy shows up and interrupts them. He continues to threaten Reese that he’s going to take her for custody of their daughter, and Reese tells him that Malaki is her fiancée.
Malaki is thrilled with the idea and has Reese, her sister and her daughter move in with him. Reese is always reminding him that it’s fake, but he’s determined to show her how it could be if they together for real.
When Charleigh’s dad comes through with his threats on fighting for custody, Reese must fight tooth and nail not to lose. Will Malaki be able to swoop in and save the day?
I adored this book and these characters ! The way Malaki treated not only Reese, but her sister and Charleigh too had me so in love with him! He quickly became my favourite blue devil!
Thank you SJ for the ARC!!
October 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ This was an insta feel good story. It’s wildly unrealistic, lol, but fun.
- Malaki is a professional hockey player who meets Reese, a single mom when she shows up as his Uber driver.
He becomes low key obsessed and when he’s present when trouble starts w her controlling ex, she blurts out that he’s her fiancée and he jumps in with both enthusiastic feet.
Reese has a young daughter and a college age sister that she is caring for since her parents are either dead or drug addicts. She is struggling to make ends meet. She is strong, stubborn, full of pride and doesn’t want to take his help.
The tension comes from her ex, Benedict, causing problems, and from them each realizing their feelings.
- No third act breakup.
- Communication - there is no annoying miscommunication.
- No OW drama. OM - Her ex, Benedict, wants her back and is using her daughter, Charleigh, as a pawn. We know she hasn’t been w anyone since she got pregnant w her daughter, but we have no idea if he’s previously a player or not. We know at the beginning of the story that he had no interest in settling down and opening himself up to love.
- Spice - This is some mutual pining, but it’s not drawn out too long.
- Family/Found family - players from previous books are alluded to but it’s not confusing. Her sister and daughter are key characters. He has no family.
- Forced proximity; he moves her into his house along w her sister and baby as soon as they become fake engaged.
- Evil ex.
- Nickname - Dimples, Dada (Charleigh to Malaki)
- Dual POV; living together and marriage in 10 month later epilogue.
The only reason this isn’t higher rated for me was that Malaki was so all-in with little explanation. He says in the beginning that he can’t imagine giving his heart to someone and then just completely opens it for Reese and her baby daughter. I think if there were a few more small genuine moments between them, I would have believed it more.
I do love, however, that he WAS all in. Lol. He moved all of them in, got a security system, buys her sister a bed, makes her sleep in his when he realizes that she’s sleeping on the floor, buys a crib for the baby, and baby gates. He teaches Charleigh to call him Dada and cannot wait for any contact w Reese, FaceTiming and texting any chance he gets when he’s away. It is very cute. ☺️
Overall a fun, feel-good read!
- Malaki is a professional hockey player who meets Reese, a single mom when she shows up as his Uber driver.
He becomes low key obsessed and when he’s present when trouble starts w her controlling ex, she blurts out that he’s her fiancée and he jumps in with both enthusiastic feet.
Reese has a young daughter and a college age sister that she is caring for since her parents are either dead or drug addicts. She is struggling to make ends meet. She is strong, stubborn, full of pride and doesn’t want to take his help.
The tension comes from her ex, Benedict, causing problems, and from them each realizing their feelings.
- No third act breakup.
- Communication - there is no annoying miscommunication.
- No OW drama. OM - Her ex, Benedict, wants her back and is using her daughter, Charleigh, as a pawn. We know she hasn’t been w anyone since she got pregnant w her daughter, but we have no idea if he’s previously a player or not. We know at the beginning of the story that he had no interest in settling down and opening himself up to love.
- Spice - This is some mutual pining, but it’s not drawn out too long.
- Family/Found family - players from previous books are alluded to but it’s not confusing. Her sister and daughter are key characters. He has no family.
- Forced proximity; he moves her into his house along w her sister and baby as soon as they become fake engaged.
- Evil ex.
- Nickname - Dimples, Dada (Charleigh to Malaki)
- Dual POV; living together and marriage in 10 month later epilogue.
The only reason this isn’t higher rated for me was that Malaki was so all-in with little explanation. He says in the beginning that he can’t imagine giving his heart to someone and then just completely opens it for Reese and her baby daughter. I think if there were a few more small genuine moments between them, I would have believed it more.
I do love, however, that he WAS all in. Lol. He moved all of them in, got a security system, buys her sister a bed, makes her sleep in his when he realizes that she’s sleeping on the floor, buys a crib for the baby, and baby gates. He teaches Charleigh to call him Dada and cannot wait for any contact w Reese, FaceTiming and texting any chance he gets when he’s away. It is very cute. ☺️
Overall a fun, feel-good read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2025
Test the Ice by SJ Sylvis eARC Review 🏒💙
ALL of the stars for this book! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I ate this book up and left no crumbs. I have not loved a hockey romance like this in so long and I am truly so happy right now. I loved everything about this book and this is definitely my favorite of the series, hands down.
Malakai is one of those MMCs that you instantly fall in love with. He is hilarious and has the biggest heart. Reese is closed off, independent and has severe trust issues- and Malaki is the perfect man to help her get over those, even if she doesn’t originally know it. When she finds herself in a terrible predicament with her daughter’s father, Malaki offers a solution…a fake engagement. What starts off as a way to convince her ex that she is no longer interested, definitely leads to so much more. Their story is so fricken sweet and had me swooning the entire book.
I absolutely devoured this one and couldn’t get enough. This series is fantastic and one I will always recommend!
What to expect:
Hockey romance
Single mom
Fake engagement
Close proximity
Thank you so much SJ Sylvis and VPR for the opportunity to read as an ARC for my honest opinion and review.
ALL of the stars for this book! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I ate this book up and left no crumbs. I have not loved a hockey romance like this in so long and I am truly so happy right now. I loved everything about this book and this is definitely my favorite of the series, hands down.
Malakai is one of those MMCs that you instantly fall in love with. He is hilarious and has the biggest heart. Reese is closed off, independent and has severe trust issues- and Malaki is the perfect man to help her get over those, even if she doesn’t originally know it. When she finds herself in a terrible predicament with her daughter’s father, Malaki offers a solution…a fake engagement. What starts off as a way to convince her ex that she is no longer interested, definitely leads to so much more. Their story is so fricken sweet and had me swooning the entire book.
I absolutely devoured this one and couldn’t get enough. This series is fantastic and one I will always recommend!
What to expect:
Hockey romance
Single mom
Fake engagement
Close proximity
Thank you so much SJ Sylvis and VPR for the opportunity to read as an ARC for my honest opinion and review.
December 12, 2025
I love this series and this one didn't disappoint either. I didn't realize how much I would end up loving Malaki! Malaki is a hockey star and Reese is a single mom who is working as an uber driver. Malaki was interested immediately and once he found out Reese had a daughter, he was all in with her too. He really stepped up for them and they faked an engagement to help protect Reese & Charleigh from her sleazy baby daddy. He was so patient with Reese too. She was very hesitant to move forward with a relationship but Malaki was patient with her until she was ready!! I loved them!!
🎧Audio:🎧
This is a dual narration by Liam Dicosimo & Vanessa Vasquez and they nailed this audio! Liam played the golden retriever Malaki perfectly. I love the tone of Vanessa's voice & I felt like she pulled out all the emotions that Reese was feeling. I felt their chemistry and absolutely loved their banter!! They were a great pairing.
Thank you to Valentine PR for this ALC!
🎧Audio:🎧
This is a dual narration by Liam Dicosimo & Vanessa Vasquez and they nailed this audio! Liam played the golden retriever Malaki perfectly. I love the tone of Vanessa's voice & I felt like she pulled out all the emotions that Reese was feeling. I felt their chemistry and absolutely loved their banter!! They were a great pairing.
Thank you to Valentine PR for this ALC!
October 19, 2025
Malaki was such a teddy bear!! His obsession with Reese was really cute. And Charleigh?! Smitten. Their chemistry was off the charts I just wish she didn't fight it and kept saying fake fake fake. Everything worked out though!
October 23, 2025
Another great Chicago Blue Devils novel from S.J. Sylvis! I was excited to receive the ARC copy. This is hockey star Malaki Young’s relationship with Reese, a single mother with a young baby who lives with her sister Zoe. Reese’s ex wants to keep her under his thumb, but Malaki has his own plan to save Reese from her ex.
December 9, 2025
Fake dating/engagement will ALWAYS be my jam and I read this in one sitting! Malaki is a literal walking green flag and I love how persistent he is when he’s trying to just get to know Reese. Plus the tension between them is palpable. He does not hesitate to step up and take care of his girls…even before Reese is ready to acknowledge how much he cares for her & Charleigh.
𝐴𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑜𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘:
Performed in duet by Liam Dicosimo & Vanessa Vasquez and they both did a beautiful job at brining Malaki & Reese to life. The audiobook will be coming soon and you should add it to your TBL!
𝑊ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡:
💙Hockey romance
💙Fake dating/engagement
💙Single mom
💙Golden retriever MMC
💙He falls first
💙One bed
𝐴𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑜𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘:
Performed in duet by Liam Dicosimo & Vanessa Vasquez and they both did a beautiful job at brining Malaki & Reese to life. The audiobook will be coming soon and you should add it to your TBL!
𝑊ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡:
💙Hockey romance
💙Fake dating/engagement
💙Single mom
💙Golden retriever MMC
💙He falls first
💙One bed
October 27, 2025
FANTASTIC fake engagement hockey 🏒 romance
4.75⭐️ 2.5-3🌶️ ARC Review - SJ Sylvis did it again! This is the 4th and final book 📖 in the Blue Devils Hockey series and it was FANTASTIC. I loved this series and am sad to say goodbye to the characters. I didn’t think anyone could top Emory from book 1 but boy was I wrong. Enter Malaki. 👏🏻
Malaki Young is the charming playboy pro hockey player. Reese is a fiercely independent single mom struggling to stay afloat. Malaki offers a fake engagement as a solution to keep her toxic, obsessive ex away. They are PERFECTION. I immediately fell in love with them (and Charleigh 👧🏻).
I constantly was chuckling! Malaki is so funny, flirty, and insane (in the best way). 😂 He is annoyingly persistent/relentless. He’s also VERY GOOD at playing pretend. 🤫 He is all like ‘no, i don’t do relationships or marriage’ until meeting Reese. Then he will request an Uber ride and cancel until Reese is the driver. 🫠 When he calls her daughter Charleigh-girl? 🫠🫠 Swoon-city. This man. There’s a mile-long list of sweet, swoony things he does and says. He builds up Reese’s confidence, he loves Charleigh like his own, he is present, he is attentive, he is so cute when he holds Charleigh and talks to her. I mean, this man, I love him. ❤️🤌🏻👏🏻
❤️ Charm, spice, heartwarming
❤️ Malaki shows up every. Single. Time.
❤️ Slow-burn tension
❤️ His vulnerability
❤️ Banter
❤️ Emotional growth
❤️ ‘If he wanted to, he would’ epitome
❤️ He ruins every other man for her/he puts them to shame
❤️ Sweatpants, hoodie, backwards hat 🧢 🚨
❤️ ‘Good girl’ 🥵
❤️ He talks her through it 😮💨
❤️ Shirtless in the kitchen making breakfast while holding Charleigh. gah 🫠❤️
❤️ His texts
Favorite quotes:
"You're insane."
"I'm not insane," he argues. "I'm persistent."
"You mean annoying," I quip.
"Charming."
"Irritating."
‘Fiancée, fake fiancée-tomato, tomahto.’
"Hey, fiancée."
“Are you ever going to stop calling me that?"
“Yes. When we get married, I'll just start calling you wife."
"You're crazy."
‘I am. For her. For Charleigh. I don't know when it happened, but I'm done for.’
"You need to wear my jersey."
“I don't have any Blue Devils merch, but-"
"You look perfect. I just meant you need to wear my jersey because you're mine."
“You know you don't have to buy us things or treat me like I'm actually going to have your last name one day, right?
“Who says you won't have my last name one day?”
“Malaki!”
“Future Mrs. Young!”
‘The media may have me painted out as the golden retriever of the Blue Devils, but I don't think Benedict realizes that when he messes with my girls, he's messing with me.’
"Yes, ma'am. Happy wife, happy life."
"I'm not your wife!" I remind him.
“Yet. You're not my wife yet."
Read this if you like:
*Hockey romance
*Fake engagement
*Single mom
*Protective MMC
*Strong FMC
*Close proximity
*One bed
*He falls first
*Golden retriever energy
*Jersey moment
*Found family
Content warning: death of a parent, alcoholic parent, absentee parent, childhood trauma
Thank you to SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for the honor of reading this early in exchange for my honest opinions and review.
4.75⭐️ 2.5-3🌶️ ARC Review - SJ Sylvis did it again! This is the 4th and final book 📖 in the Blue Devils Hockey series and it was FANTASTIC. I loved this series and am sad to say goodbye to the characters. I didn’t think anyone could top Emory from book 1 but boy was I wrong. Enter Malaki. 👏🏻
Malaki Young is the charming playboy pro hockey player. Reese is a fiercely independent single mom struggling to stay afloat. Malaki offers a fake engagement as a solution to keep her toxic, obsessive ex away. They are PERFECTION. I immediately fell in love with them (and Charleigh 👧🏻).
I constantly was chuckling! Malaki is so funny, flirty, and insane (in the best way). 😂 He is annoyingly persistent/relentless. He’s also VERY GOOD at playing pretend. 🤫 He is all like ‘no, i don’t do relationships or marriage’ until meeting Reese. Then he will request an Uber ride and cancel until Reese is the driver. 🫠 When he calls her daughter Charleigh-girl? 🫠🫠 Swoon-city. This man. There’s a mile-long list of sweet, swoony things he does and says. He builds up Reese’s confidence, he loves Charleigh like his own, he is present, he is attentive, he is so cute when he holds Charleigh and talks to her. I mean, this man, I love him. ❤️🤌🏻👏🏻
❤️ Charm, spice, heartwarming
❤️ Malaki shows up every. Single. Time.
❤️ Slow-burn tension
❤️ His vulnerability
❤️ Banter
❤️ Emotional growth
❤️ ‘If he wanted to, he would’ epitome
❤️ He ruins every other man for her/he puts them to shame
❤️ Sweatpants, hoodie, backwards hat 🧢 🚨
❤️ ‘Good girl’ 🥵
❤️ He talks her through it 😮💨
❤️ Shirtless in the kitchen making breakfast while holding Charleigh. gah 🫠❤️
❤️ His texts
Favorite quotes:
"You're insane."
"I'm not insane," he argues. "I'm persistent."
"You mean annoying," I quip.
"Charming."
"Irritating."
‘Fiancée, fake fiancée-tomato, tomahto.’
"Hey, fiancée."
“Are you ever going to stop calling me that?"
“Yes. When we get married, I'll just start calling you wife."
"You're crazy."
‘I am. For her. For Charleigh. I don't know when it happened, but I'm done for.’
"You need to wear my jersey."
“I don't have any Blue Devils merch, but-"
"You look perfect. I just meant you need to wear my jersey because you're mine."
“You know you don't have to buy us things or treat me like I'm actually going to have your last name one day, right?
“Who says you won't have my last name one day?”
“Malaki!”
“Future Mrs. Young!”
‘The media may have me painted out as the golden retriever of the Blue Devils, but I don't think Benedict realizes that when he messes with my girls, he's messing with me.’
"Yes, ma'am. Happy wife, happy life."
"I'm not your wife!" I remind him.
“Yet. You're not my wife yet."
Read this if you like:
*Hockey romance
*Fake engagement
*Single mom
*Protective MMC
*Strong FMC
*Close proximity
*One bed
*He falls first
*Golden retriever energy
*Jersey moment
*Found family
Content warning: death of a parent, alcoholic parent, absentee parent, childhood trauma
Thank you to SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for the honor of reading this early in exchange for my honest opinions and review.
October 28, 2025
#Review: *Test The Ice* - S.J. Sylvis - ARC [18+]
4.9/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
I love this sports series by S.J Sylvis, so I had to continue reading it. Thank you so much for accepting me for this early copy, S.J Sylvis and Valentine Pr.🫶🏼
Reese Moreno was in a pretty tough situation with her baby daddy. She was now living with her daughter and sister in a small apartment, which wasn't too much but offered them a roof under their heads. I order to survive, Reese decided to be a ride sharing driver. That's how she was going to meet the man who would change her entire life, the hockey player Malaki Young.
Malaki was mesmerized by Reese even from the first time he saw her and made it his purpose to convince Reese to date him. But that wasn't a really easy job considering the fact that Reese was afraid to open her heart after the fiasco she had with her ex boyfriend, Benedict. She may try to resist Malaki and his charms but can she be that strong and ignore the butterflies that appear every time she was near him? Can she not notice how safe she can feel around him?
This story made me question myself about how can a book be funny and sad at the same time. Well this one definitely had both of that because it was super fun thanks to everything regarding Malaki, but it was sad because of Reese's hard past and the struggles she and her sister have been through over the years. I was mesmerized by Malaki's charming personality, being such a goofy man and also a total softie. You can say that he was the perfect representation of a cinnamon roll and golden retriever, being super sweet and extremely crazy about Reese and her little girl. He was so swoony and he brought a smile on my face every time he was in centre of attention. I just loved that Reese got to meet such a lovely man and one who could take care of her and her family. But the situation wasn't all pink because her ex was still bothering her, being a bit crazy because she was trying to move on from him.
Ohh, I liked this book so, so much, adoring these characters and their sweet connection which formed so naturally and which was full of love. Another sports romance hockey related books which I adored and which I absolutely recommend.😍🩵
✨Tropes
#SingleMom
#LoveAtFirstSight
#CinnamonRoll
#GoldenRetriever
#HeFallsHarder
#ManObsessed
#FakeFiancee
#SlowBurn
#Banter
#SportsRomance
#Hockey
4.9/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
I love this sports series by S.J Sylvis, so I had to continue reading it. Thank you so much for accepting me for this early copy, S.J Sylvis and Valentine Pr.🫶🏼
Reese Moreno was in a pretty tough situation with her baby daddy. She was now living with her daughter and sister in a small apartment, which wasn't too much but offered them a roof under their heads. I order to survive, Reese decided to be a ride sharing driver. That's how she was going to meet the man who would change her entire life, the hockey player Malaki Young.
Malaki was mesmerized by Reese even from the first time he saw her and made it his purpose to convince Reese to date him. But that wasn't a really easy job considering the fact that Reese was afraid to open her heart after the fiasco she had with her ex boyfriend, Benedict. She may try to resist Malaki and his charms but can she be that strong and ignore the butterflies that appear every time she was near him? Can she not notice how safe she can feel around him?
This story made me question myself about how can a book be funny and sad at the same time. Well this one definitely had both of that because it was super fun thanks to everything regarding Malaki, but it was sad because of Reese's hard past and the struggles she and her sister have been through over the years. I was mesmerized by Malaki's charming personality, being such a goofy man and also a total softie. You can say that he was the perfect representation of a cinnamon roll and golden retriever, being super sweet and extremely crazy about Reese and her little girl. He was so swoony and he brought a smile on my face every time he was in centre of attention. I just loved that Reese got to meet such a lovely man and one who could take care of her and her family. But the situation wasn't all pink because her ex was still bothering her, being a bit crazy because she was trying to move on from him.
Ohh, I liked this book so, so much, adoring these characters and their sweet connection which formed so naturally and which was full of love. Another sports romance hockey related books which I adored and which I absolutely recommend.😍🩵
✨Tropes
#SingleMom
#LoveAtFirstSight
#CinnamonRoll
#GoldenRetriever
#HeFallsHarder
#ManObsessed
#FakeFiancee
#SlowBurn
#Banter
#SportsRomance
#Hockey
October 27, 2025
If you're looking for the ultimate golden retriever boyfriend material, then you've come to the right place. Needless to say, our male main character here, Malaki Young, takes the cake among all the male characters in the Blue Devils Hockey series. His thoughtfulness, kindness, and generosity know no bounds; his unwavering love and loyalty to Reese, the female main character, are the sort that makes other ladies stay jealous but at the same time, swoon over so much. What touches me most is that when learning Reese has a nine-month-old baby, Malaki immediately bought a car seat, a baby gate, and a crib just to accommodate her needs without her asking. His action certainly speaks louder than words and I'm glad his relationship with Reese works out eventually.
However, as beautiful and heartfelt as this book, the major reason it's not a five-star for me is because Reese spends the majority of her time worrying about the emotionally-abusive relationship with her ex, Benedict, who happens to be the father of her baby. I mean, the whole story basically revolves around her unsolved conflict with Benedict and he exists literally throughout the entire book as if he's the protagonist instead of Malaki. I'm not sure if this is typical for single mom trope as it's never my cup of tea but I'd definitely appreciate more if the main plot focuses on Malaki and Reese's relationship building or at least elaborates on why or how Malaki is attracted to Reese in the first place. I feel like Malaki's doing so much for Reese, especially helping her out financially, but what's in it for him? He's pretty much going above and beyond for her just because of the physical attraction/infatuation at first sight. In short, I just wish there could be some more background story for Malaki and more profound layers for the plot, particularly for romance stories like this.
All in all, Test the Ice is still an enjoyable read if you'd like to have something light-hearted and fun to kill time with. Besides, it's actually a nice ending to the whole Blue Devils Hockey series so hopefully you'll like this book as much as the rest of it!
***Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
However, as beautiful and heartfelt as this book, the major reason it's not a five-star for me is because Reese spends the majority of her time worrying about the emotionally-abusive relationship with her ex, Benedict, who happens to be the father of her baby. I mean, the whole story basically revolves around her unsolved conflict with Benedict and he exists literally throughout the entire book as if he's the protagonist instead of Malaki. I'm not sure if this is typical for single mom trope as it's never my cup of tea but I'd definitely appreciate more if the main plot focuses on Malaki and Reese's relationship building or at least elaborates on why or how Malaki is attracted to Reese in the first place. I feel like Malaki's doing so much for Reese, especially helping her out financially, but what's in it for him? He's pretty much going above and beyond for her just because of the physical attraction/infatuation at first sight. In short, I just wish there could be some more background story for Malaki and more profound layers for the plot, particularly for romance stories like this.
All in all, Test the Ice is still an enjoyable read if you'd like to have something light-hearted and fun to kill time with. Besides, it's actually a nice ending to the whole Blue Devils Hockey series so hopefully you'll like this book as much as the rest of it!
***Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
October 19, 2025
ARC Review
Test the Ice (Blue Devils Hockey #4) by S.J. Sylvis
Release Date: 10/23/25 - Free on KU!
This series never disappoints!
Malaki Young is the golden retriever of the Blue Devils hockey team. He's a good friend, he's loyal, and he's a fun time. When he meets Daisy's new Uber-driver BFF Reese, he's immediately smitten. She isn't impressed by his hockey star status, his money, or his charm, and that only intrigues him further. He knows exactly what he wants, and it's Reese. So when she won't give him the time of day, he'll find a way to see her again, even if he has to request 100 Uber rides to do it! Did I mention he's persistent?
Reese Moreno lives a messy life. She's a single mom to a baby girl, Charleigh, her daughter's dad is a rich, manipulative a-hole who wants her back, yet wants nothing to do with their daughter, she lives with her younger sister Zoe in a crappy apartment on the bad side of town, and she drives for Uber to makes ends meet. She doesn't have room in her life for a man, even one as hot and tempting as Malaki Young.
But when her Ex starts threatening to take her to court to prove she's unfit to be a mother and take Charleigh away, Reese claims her new friend Malaki is her fiancé! After meeting the Ex and seeing how terrified Reese is, Malaki is quick to agree to help her out. The only catch? He doesn't know that Reese is a mom, and he's going to be playing fake future step-daddy as well as fake fiancé!
Soon, Reese, Charleigh, and Zoe move into Malaki's house to play happy family. To Reese's surprise, Charleigh and Malaki immediately hit it off, and he goes out of his way time an again to take care of all 3 of them. But when the chemistry gets a bit too strong and the faking starts to feel all too real, how will they all make it out of this fantasy land unscathed?
Malaki was so flirty and swoony, but beyond that, he proved to be kind, caring, and protective. Reese was wary of men, with great reason, but even she couldn't resist his relentless charm for long. The banter was amazing, the chemistry was popping, and Malaki's relationship with Charleigh was enough to explode ovaries! I thoroughly enjoyed this story!
5⭐ 2.5🌶️
I was given an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Author SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for the ARC!
Test the Ice (Blue Devils Hockey #4) by S.J. Sylvis
Release Date: 10/23/25 - Free on KU!
This series never disappoints!
Malaki Young is the golden retriever of the Blue Devils hockey team. He's a good friend, he's loyal, and he's a fun time. When he meets Daisy's new Uber-driver BFF Reese, he's immediately smitten. She isn't impressed by his hockey star status, his money, or his charm, and that only intrigues him further. He knows exactly what he wants, and it's Reese. So when she won't give him the time of day, he'll find a way to see her again, even if he has to request 100 Uber rides to do it! Did I mention he's persistent?
Reese Moreno lives a messy life. She's a single mom to a baby girl, Charleigh, her daughter's dad is a rich, manipulative a-hole who wants her back, yet wants nothing to do with their daughter, she lives with her younger sister Zoe in a crappy apartment on the bad side of town, and she drives for Uber to makes ends meet. She doesn't have room in her life for a man, even one as hot and tempting as Malaki Young.
But when her Ex starts threatening to take her to court to prove she's unfit to be a mother and take Charleigh away, Reese claims her new friend Malaki is her fiancé! After meeting the Ex and seeing how terrified Reese is, Malaki is quick to agree to help her out. The only catch? He doesn't know that Reese is a mom, and he's going to be playing fake future step-daddy as well as fake fiancé!
Soon, Reese, Charleigh, and Zoe move into Malaki's house to play happy family. To Reese's surprise, Charleigh and Malaki immediately hit it off, and he goes out of his way time an again to take care of all 3 of them. But when the chemistry gets a bit too strong and the faking starts to feel all too real, how will they all make it out of this fantasy land unscathed?
Malaki was so flirty and swoony, but beyond that, he proved to be kind, caring, and protective. Reese was wary of men, with great reason, but even she couldn't resist his relentless charm for long. The banter was amazing, the chemistry was popping, and Malaki's relationship with Charleigh was enough to explode ovaries! I thoroughly enjoyed this story!
5⭐ 2.5🌶️
I was given an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Author SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for the ARC!
December 14, 2025
Test the Ice is the fourth book in the Blue Devils Hockey series by S.J Sylvis and while I've only read a couple books in this series so far, I am loving this author's hockey world.
Malaki Young is a very single, hotshot hockey star that ends up getting a ride home from a gorgeous Uber driver that's just doing her job to make ends meet. Reese is a single mom to a baby daughter and does not have time for a social life, least of all the famous hockey player in her car. When he needs to go help a friend out days later, he can't help but try to book the same Uber driver to learn more about her and why he can't get her off his mind. But Reese is hiding something from him because she knows whatever attraction they each have for each other can only be that. An attraction. She has too much to deal with and can't drag anyone else down with her.
I gotta say, fake relationships of any sort are my jam. When Malaki agrees to a fake relationship that very quickly turns into a fake engagement with Reese, I kind of got giddy because Malaki was so sweet and all in, no matter what. Reese was the one holding back because of her strings and what everyone has always told her about who she should be. But that woman was strong and wanted to do things on her own. Luckily, our sweet golden retriever Malaki pushed his way into her heart and took care of all of his girls. From Reese, to her sister to Reese's daughter, Malaki was just everything to all of these girls. What started out fake turned into so much more BECAUSE Malaki would not give up. He took care of his girls AND he stood up to Reese's ex in any way he could. A man of his word and then some.
IF you like hockey romances that include a fake engagement with a golden retriever MMC and a single mom, this is a story that will definitely keep your attention and have you squealing with delight when Reese finally gives in to all of Malaki's advances. This isn't a slow burn, but it's a story of a woman being bothered by an ex and wants to take care of things her own way. Malaki just shows her that she doesn't have to do it alone. What a man! And I can't forget about the supporting characters. From Malaki's teammates to Reese's sister and BFF, all the characters helped push the story forward.
And finally, the audiobook was amazing! Liam Dicosimo as Malaki brought his cocky and sweetness all together so perfectly and Vanessa Vasquez gave us a strong yet vulnerable single mom to life.
I really do need to go back and pick up the couple books that I haven't read in the series because I love all of Malaki's teammates and need to know how they got to their HEAs.
Malaki Young is a very single, hotshot hockey star that ends up getting a ride home from a gorgeous Uber driver that's just doing her job to make ends meet. Reese is a single mom to a baby daughter and does not have time for a social life, least of all the famous hockey player in her car. When he needs to go help a friend out days later, he can't help but try to book the same Uber driver to learn more about her and why he can't get her off his mind. But Reese is hiding something from him because she knows whatever attraction they each have for each other can only be that. An attraction. She has too much to deal with and can't drag anyone else down with her.
I gotta say, fake relationships of any sort are my jam. When Malaki agrees to a fake relationship that very quickly turns into a fake engagement with Reese, I kind of got giddy because Malaki was so sweet and all in, no matter what. Reese was the one holding back because of her strings and what everyone has always told her about who she should be. But that woman was strong and wanted to do things on her own. Luckily, our sweet golden retriever Malaki pushed his way into her heart and took care of all of his girls. From Reese, to her sister to Reese's daughter, Malaki was just everything to all of these girls. What started out fake turned into so much more BECAUSE Malaki would not give up. He took care of his girls AND he stood up to Reese's ex in any way he could. A man of his word and then some.
IF you like hockey romances that include a fake engagement with a golden retriever MMC and a single mom, this is a story that will definitely keep your attention and have you squealing with delight when Reese finally gives in to all of Malaki's advances. This isn't a slow burn, but it's a story of a woman being bothered by an ex and wants to take care of things her own way. Malaki just shows her that she doesn't have to do it alone. What a man! And I can't forget about the supporting characters. From Malaki's teammates to Reese's sister and BFF, all the characters helped push the story forward.
And finally, the audiobook was amazing! Liam Dicosimo as Malaki brought his cocky and sweetness all together so perfectly and Vanessa Vasquez gave us a strong yet vulnerable single mom to life.
I really do need to go back and pick up the couple books that I haven't read in the series because I love all of Malaki's teammates and need to know how they got to their HEAs.
October 19, 2025
I went into this book a little weary because I don’t really enjoy the single mom trope, but because it was S.J. I trusted her and apparently I’m in love now.
The way I loved everything in this book. From the teasing, to the denial, the back and forth, the emotional stuff and the soft moments, the spice and the love! Everything was so beautiful and crafted with care and I couldn’t get enough.
Reece was such an independent and caring person. She had the worst cards and even then didn’t let herself become mean or bitter. Her and her sister were badass and taking care of Charleigh and wouldn’t let anything happen to their little family. Seeing them finally be able to relax and live instead of survive was amazing. And Malaki did it all because of how he felt, never wanted nothing in return.
Speaking of, Malaki is the dream man and I say that having already thought the same of the three previous guys in this series. It’s just that S.J. can’t help but write the perfect man in different fonts every time. He was attentive, loving, funny and kind but serious and sensitive when needed. He loved Char from the moment he met her, and did everything in his power to make them feel safe and happy.
This book was written so perfectly I didn’t even mind the “single mother” trope and that’s just the magic S.J. has.
Thank you, Valentine and S.J. for the opportunity to read this early!!
Quotes:
She's needy, and I'm willing to give her whatever she asks for. Money? It's hers. My bed? As long as she doesn't mind sharing. My last name? Let's make it official.
For the first time in my career, I don't have to make light of the evening with humor to cure my boredom, because I've got my own personal little escape right beside me.
"This is just as much for me as it is for you, Reese. I've been craving to find out what you taste like since the second we met."
The last thing I think about before falling asleep myself is how on earth can I get this girl to be my real fiancée, instead of my fake one?
"Good luck!"
"I don't need luck. I've got you."
"That's sort of what you do to me, Reese. You make me want crazy things, and I find myself doing crazy things just to talk to you, or see you smile, or..."
"Or what?"
"Or touch you,"
The way I loved everything in this book. From the teasing, to the denial, the back and forth, the emotional stuff and the soft moments, the spice and the love! Everything was so beautiful and crafted with care and I couldn’t get enough.
Reece was such an independent and caring person. She had the worst cards and even then didn’t let herself become mean or bitter. Her and her sister were badass and taking care of Charleigh and wouldn’t let anything happen to their little family. Seeing them finally be able to relax and live instead of survive was amazing. And Malaki did it all because of how he felt, never wanted nothing in return.
Speaking of, Malaki is the dream man and I say that having already thought the same of the three previous guys in this series. It’s just that S.J. can’t help but write the perfect man in different fonts every time. He was attentive, loving, funny and kind but serious and sensitive when needed. He loved Char from the moment he met her, and did everything in his power to make them feel safe and happy.
This book was written so perfectly I didn’t even mind the “single mother” trope and that’s just the magic S.J. has.
Thank you, Valentine and S.J. for the opportunity to read this early!!
Quotes:
She's needy, and I'm willing to give her whatever she asks for. Money? It's hers. My bed? As long as she doesn't mind sharing. My last name? Let's make it official.
For the first time in my career, I don't have to make light of the evening with humor to cure my boredom, because I've got my own personal little escape right beside me.
"This is just as much for me as it is for you, Reese. I've been craving to find out what you taste like since the second we met."
The last thing I think about before falling asleep myself is how on earth can I get this girl to be my real fiancée, instead of my fake one?
"Good luck!"
"I don't need luck. I've got you."
"That's sort of what you do to me, Reese. You make me want crazy things, and I find myself doing crazy things just to talk to you, or see you smile, or..."
"Or what?"
"Or touch you,"
October 23, 2025
This is the fourth book in this impressive series, and this is Malaki and Reese’s story.
Malaki is quiet, charming, persistent, protective, and is Chicago’s hottest pro hockey player, while Reese is a single mom to her 6-month-old little daughter, and she is sworn off men after trusting the wrong man. Now Reese’s ex is out for revenge, and Malaki proposes a fake engagement as a solution.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tension, trust, fake relationships, friends / lovers, humour, witty banter, vengeance, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and captivating, sports romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Malaki is quiet, charming, persistent, protective, and is Chicago’s hottest pro hockey player, while Reese is a single mom to her 6-month-old little daughter, and she is sworn off men after trusting the wrong man. Now Reese’s ex is out for revenge, and Malaki proposes a fake engagement as a solution.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tension, trust, fake relationships, friends / lovers, humour, witty banter, vengeance, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and captivating, sports romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
October 25, 2025
I loveeeeee an SJ book and this was no exception!
Single mom ✔️
Hockey ✔️
He falls first ✔️
Penalty box worthy swoon and spice? ✔️✔️✔️
I loved these two so much!! Malaki was a breath of fresh air and the fun loving Reese needed and deserved. I loved how protective she was of her sister and her daughter, and the devotion she had to caring for them. Having Malaki come in and take that pressure off of her was just, mmmmm, CHEFS KISS.
The spice is SPICY in this one. So def have a cool drink with ya 🥵
Single mom ✔️
Hockey ✔️
He falls first ✔️
Penalty box worthy swoon and spice? ✔️✔️✔️
I loved these two so much!! Malaki was a breath of fresh air and the fun loving Reese needed and deserved. I loved how protective she was of her sister and her daughter, and the devotion she had to caring for them. Having Malaki come in and take that pressure off of her was just, mmmmm, CHEFS KISS.
The spice is SPICY in this one. So def have a cool drink with ya 🥵
October 28, 2025
SJ Sylvis does it again with Test the Ice. I was obsessed with Malaki and Reese. The way they met? Perfection. His endless bantering and flirting with her? I loved it.
I'm so sad to see this series come to an end, but this was the best conclusion to an amazing series that has my whole entire heart.
Oh and FUCK you Bene-small-dick. You know who you are, rot in hell.
And the way Malaki loved both Reese and Charleigh had me swooning over the moon. I could not put this book down. They were everything I could have hoped for and more!! 🥹✨
I miss these characters and world already. 😭🫶🏻✨
Thank you to the author, SJ Sylvis & Valentini PR for the arc in exchange for my honest review! ✨🫶🏻
I'm so sad to see this series come to an end, but this was the best conclusion to an amazing series that has my whole entire heart.
Oh and FUCK you Bene-small-dick. You know who you are, rot in hell.
And the way Malaki loved both Reese and Charleigh had me swooning over the moon. I could not put this book down. They were everything I could have hoped for and more!! 🥹✨
I miss these characters and world already. 😭🫶🏻✨
Thank you to the author, SJ Sylvis & Valentini PR for the arc in exchange for my honest review! ✨🫶🏻
December 14, 2025
Blue Devils is one of my favorite hockey series, I love all of the characters so much!Malaki is definitely the golden retriever of the bunch and I was so excited to get his story. I love how he treated Reese, and how protective he was of her and Charleigh. Reese is a mama bear and I love her for it, all she cares about is creating a safe and stable life for her daughter. And as a mom, there are a couple of scenes that made my stomach drop, but SJ does a great job handling it all. Her writing is addictive, and I absolutely love this world she’s created - it has the best found family vibes!
🎙️𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞 ⇣
Liam Dicosimo and Vanessa Vasquez narrate, and they were perfect for these characters. Liam’s voice captured Malaki’s sweet, charming, protective personality in the best way. Vanessa did a fantastic job as well, she is so talented, and is always one of my favorites to listen to.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇣
Hockey romance
Single mom
Fake engagement
Close proximity
Found family
Golden retriever MMC
He falls first
Protective hero
Toxic ex
Dual POV
Spice
Thank you Valentine PR for the ALC!
🎙️𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞 ⇣
Liam Dicosimo and Vanessa Vasquez narrate, and they were perfect for these characters. Liam’s voice captured Malaki’s sweet, charming, protective personality in the best way. Vanessa did a fantastic job as well, she is so talented, and is always one of my favorites to listen to.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇣
Hockey romance
Single mom
Fake engagement
Close proximity
Found family
Golden retriever MMC
He falls first
Protective hero
Toxic ex
Dual POV
Spice
Thank you Valentine PR for the ALC!
December 9, 2025
5 ⭐️
I didn’t expect it but this is my fave out of the series! Malaki and Reese are just so funny and sweet together and I was rooting for them from page 1 🥹🥹
I didn’t expect it but this is my fave out of the series! Malaki and Reese are just so funny and sweet together and I was rooting for them from page 1 🥹🥹
November 10, 2025
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
SJ Sylvis could write me her grocery list and I would sit down and beg for more. This is absolutely one of my favorite hockey series and I absolutely was not ready to say goodbye to them.
And Malakai and Reese. 10/10 no notes. Literal perfection.
I am an actual sucker for a green flag playboy, and Makakai is my new favorite, This man is so down bad and so determined to prove himself to Reese, and the tension between them was palpable. Like I was panting waiting for the tension to break between them, and when id did 🫠🫠
I was a whole puddle on the floor.
✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ Single Mom
✨ Golden Retriever MMC
✨ One Bed
I don't know what it is about single mom romances that hit so hard, but I absolutely loved how Malakai fell for now only Reese, but Charleigh as well.
I also loved the entire fake engagement plot. You better believe I will eat that up every single time. And the way this one came about... I was on the edge of my seat.
I am so sad to see this series end. I love the different personalities of the team, and I won't lie, I shed a bit of a tear over letting them go. Malakai and Rees were the perfect ending and I could not put this book down.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
SJ Sylvis could write me her grocery list and I would sit down and beg for more. This is absolutely one of my favorite hockey series and I absolutely was not ready to say goodbye to them.
And Malakai and Reese. 10/10 no notes. Literal perfection.
I am an actual sucker for a green flag playboy, and Makakai is my new favorite, This man is so down bad and so determined to prove himself to Reese, and the tension between them was palpable. Like I was panting waiting for the tension to break between them, and when id did 🫠🫠
I was a whole puddle on the floor.
✨ Hockey Romance
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ Single Mom
✨ Golden Retriever MMC
✨ One Bed
I don't know what it is about single mom romances that hit so hard, but I absolutely loved how Malakai fell for now only Reese, but Charleigh as well.
I also loved the entire fake engagement plot. You better believe I will eat that up every single time. And the way this one came about... I was on the edge of my seat.
I am so sad to see this series end. I love the different personalities of the team, and I won't lie, I shed a bit of a tear over letting them go. Malakai and Rees were the perfect ending and I could not put this book down.
October 20, 2025
ARC REVIEW 🩵
i ADORED every second of this book. This was such a fun, fast paced read but it did include depth which i really liked.
Reese & Malaki were so perfect for eachother and i enjoyed how seamlessly they just blended into the roles they were faced with.
Malaki & Charleigh nearly had me crying!! I also loved Zoe so much she’s so funny, i hope we get a book for her one day! 🥹
Thank you so much to SJ & VPR for the arc!
i ADORED every second of this book. This was such a fun, fast paced read but it did include depth which i really liked.
Reese & Malaki were so perfect for eachother and i enjoyed how seamlessly they just blended into the roles they were faced with.
Malaki & Charleigh nearly had me crying!! I also loved Zoe so much she’s so funny, i hope we get a book for her one day! 🥹
Thank you so much to SJ & VPR for the arc!
October 23, 2025
2.5 stars! This h was frustrating. Girrrrrl, it’s okay to let somebody help you once in a while. (Possible spoilers ahead)
H was fine. He was a total green flag. No OW drama. Without him and his flirty banter, this book would have been rated lower.
h had issues. She has an ex named Benedict (first red flag) who happened to be her kid’s dad. He’s a rich POS. He doesn’t want his kid, he just wants h back. Idk why, though??? They literally only had a one night drunken hookup. 🤷♀️ (but then there are moments in the book where it sounds like they had a relationship) ofc, being the red flag he is, he called her all sorts of names when he found out she was pregnant.
H and h meet because she’s an UBER driver and she’s also friends with Daisy (previous h in the last book)
H is a massive flirt. He’s attracted to h, but she’s stand-off’ish. He’s there one night when Benedict is stalking h again. H and h pretend to be engaged.
So…h, the kid, and her sister move in with H. (The sister is 19/20 and definitely sounds like she will eventually have her own book)
Let me tell ya, h is stubborn asf and she doesn’t like to accept help at all. She’d cut her nose off to spite her face. Some of it made NO SENSE.
H and h start to have real feelings (but tbh, H already had that whole InstaLust-InstaLove going on from the start) They have smex around 50%.
Benedict is still hanging around in the background filing court papers and just being a dick. h acts like a total doormat around him. He keeps doing shady stuff with the courts (not sure how he’s able to get emergency hearings so quick)
I guess Benedict’s whole scheme is he wants h with him.
(I was so irritated at this point because h was thinking about going back with him. Her sister had to be like “wut? The guy is abusive”)
The little girl (I think she’s only 9 months) falls down the stairs and gets 12 stitches.
Benedict finds out and gets a hearing for the first thing the next morning. h wasn’t even able to get an attorney 🤷♀️
H being the green flag he is, leaves his playoff game when he finds out. He shows up and this h tells him to leave and that he’s going to make it worse UGH . He tells her he’s not leaving.
The court hearing was ridiculous. I doubt any of that would actually happen.
An PI shows up to save the day.
Maybe 4 months later, H and h are getting married in a few weeks.
The ending was lackluster. The author could at least showed h starting a career or college. 😩
H was fine. He was a total green flag. No OW drama. Without him and his flirty banter, this book would have been rated lower.
h had issues. She has an ex named Benedict (first red flag) who happened to be her kid’s dad. He’s a rich POS. He doesn’t want his kid, he just wants h back. Idk why, though??? They literally only had a one night drunken hookup. 🤷♀️ (but then there are moments in the book where it sounds like they had a relationship) ofc, being the red flag he is, he called her all sorts of names when he found out she was pregnant.
H and h meet because she’s an UBER driver and she’s also friends with Daisy (previous h in the last book)
H is a massive flirt. He’s attracted to h, but she’s stand-off’ish. He’s there one night when Benedict is stalking h again. H and h pretend to be engaged.
So…h, the kid, and her sister move in with H. (The sister is 19/20 and definitely sounds like she will eventually have her own book)
Let me tell ya, h is stubborn asf and she doesn’t like to accept help at all. She’d cut her nose off to spite her face. Some of it made NO SENSE.
H and h start to have real feelings (but tbh, H already had that whole InstaLust-InstaLove going on from the start) They have smex around 50%.
Benedict is still hanging around in the background filing court papers and just being a dick. h acts like a total doormat around him. He keeps doing shady stuff with the courts (not sure how he’s able to get emergency hearings so quick)
I guess Benedict’s whole scheme is he wants h with him.
(I was so irritated at this point because h was thinking about going back with him. Her sister had to be like “wut? The guy is abusive”)
The little girl (I think she’s only 9 months) falls down the stairs and gets 12 stitches.
Benedict finds out and gets a hearing for the first thing the next morning. h wasn’t even able to get an attorney 🤷♀️
H being the green flag he is, leaves his playoff game when he finds out. He shows up and this h tells him to leave and that he’s going to make it worse UGH . He tells her he’s not leaving.
The court hearing was ridiculous. I doubt any of that would actually happen.
An PI shows up to save the day.
Maybe 4 months later, H and h are getting married in a few weeks.
The ending was lackluster. The author could at least showed h starting a career or college. 😩
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