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Boston Bobcats #2
Fire and Ice
A spicy Fake Dating, Grumpy x Sunshine, hockey romance from bestselling author, Carly Robyn
One fake relationship, a delicious dash of chemistry, and a recipe that's bound to get messy.
Kennedy Caplan bakes the best cakes in town, but taking her business to the next level requires more than butter and grit. She’s determined to turn her dreams into something bigger, even if the odds—and her bank account—are stacked against her.
Cameron Davies, NHL goalie and resident grump, has perfected the art of shutting people out. He’s content with his small circle, until life throws him off balance: a toxic ex back in town, teammates who won’t stop hovering, and a spotlight that refuses to dim.
His solution is as practical as it is risky: a fake relationship with Kennedy—his sister’s friend and the one person he can’t seem to ignore. The arrangement gives her business the financial investment it desperately needs, and provides Cameron a buffer from his ex and overprotective teammates.
But what begins as a strategic arrangement soon blurs into late-night calls and sparks neither of them can deny. And the more they lean into the lie, they’re forced to face the question they’ve both been avoiding: what if this isn’t fake anymore?
Fire and Ice is a spicy hockey romance with heart, heat, humor, and a guaranteed HEA. This is the second book in the Boston Bobcats series and can be read as a standalone, although reading in order is recommended for the best experience!
One fake relationship, a delicious dash of chemistry, and a recipe that's bound to get messy.
Kennedy Caplan bakes the best cakes in town, but taking her business to the next level requires more than butter and grit. She’s determined to turn her dreams into something bigger, even if the odds—and her bank account—are stacked against her.
Cameron Davies, NHL goalie and resident grump, has perfected the art of shutting people out. He’s content with his small circle, until life throws him off balance: a toxic ex back in town, teammates who won’t stop hovering, and a spotlight that refuses to dim.
His solution is as practical as it is risky: a fake relationship with Kennedy—his sister’s friend and the one person he can’t seem to ignore. The arrangement gives her business the financial investment it desperately needs, and provides Cameron a buffer from his ex and overprotective teammates.
But what begins as a strategic arrangement soon blurs into late-night calls and sparks neither of them can deny. And the more they lean into the lie, they’re forced to face the question they’ve both been avoiding: what if this isn’t fake anymore?
Fire and Ice is a spicy hockey romance with heart, heat, humor, and a guaranteed HEA. This is the second book in the Boston Bobcats series and can be read as a standalone, although reading in order is recommended for the best experience!
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2026
304 people are currently reading
7712 people want to read
About the author
Carly Robyn
6 books453 followersCarly Robyn writes contemporary romances with heart, heat, and humor. When she's not writing or reading, you can find her spending time with her family, scrolling through TikTok, exploring Chicago's restaurant scene with friends, watching a Grand Prix, taking a million photos of her dogs Quincy and Owen, or binge-watching anything true-crime related while drinking Diet Coke.
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April 25, 2026sports romance 🤝 me
April 26, 2026
Solid hockey romance? ✅
Spicy? ✅
HEA? ✅
So we know we’re going to like it when the moody hockey player bags a cutie baker and they have a mutual beneficial armament (I can’t say fake-dating 😂) - and both of them should get what they need right? With a guaranteed HEA.. you already know they’re going to work this out so what makes this one worth reading?
The *ex*.
Our cutie, but broody, MMC Cameron has a past with serious emotional abuse from an ex. While it’s sad to read about - I LOVE how our main characters worked through his anxieties!!! Men don’t get to talk about that side enough and it’s a healthy dialogue which I loved!
HOUSEKEEPING:
* Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
* Reader Age Suggestions: adult
* Content Warnings: triggering emotional abus3
* Kindle Unlimited: - ✅
* Part of A Series: ✅ / Can it be read alone?: yes!
**Thank you to Valentine PR for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
Spicy? ✅
HEA? ✅
So we know we’re going to like it when the moody hockey player bags a cutie baker and they have a mutual beneficial armament (I can’t say fake-dating 😂) - and both of them should get what they need right? With a guaranteed HEA.. you already know they’re going to work this out so what makes this one worth reading?
The *ex*.
Our cutie, but broody, MMC Cameron has a past with serious emotional abuse from an ex. While it’s sad to read about - I LOVE how our main characters worked through his anxieties!!! Men don’t get to talk about that side enough and it’s a healthy dialogue which I loved!
HOUSEKEEPING:
* Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
* Reader Age Suggestions: adult
* Content Warnings: triggering emotional abus3
* Kindle Unlimited: - ✅
* Part of A Series: ✅ / Can it be read alone?: yes!
**Thank you to Valentine PR for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
Read
April 23, 2026Fire and Ice is now live! A spicy Fake Dating, Grumpy x Sunshine, hockey romance from bestselling author, Carly Robyn
One fake relationship, a delicious dash of chemistry, and a recipe that's bound to get messy.
Kennedy Caplan bakes the best cakes in town, but taking her business to the next level requires more than butter and grit. She’s determined to turn her dreams into something bigger, even if the odds—and her bank account—are stacked against her.
Cameron Davies, NHL goalie and resident grump, has perfected the art of shutting people out. He’s content with his small circle, until life throws him off balance: a toxic ex back in town, teammates who won’t stop hovering, and a spotlight that refuses to dim.
His solution is as practical as it is risky: a fake relationship with Kennedy—his sister’s friend and the one person he can’t seem to ignore. The arrangement gives her business the financial investment it desperately needs, and provides Cameron a buffer from his ex and overprotective teammates.
But what begins as a strategic arrangement soon blurs into late-night calls and sparks neither of them can deny. And the more they lean into the lie, they’re forced to face the question they’ve both been avoiding: what if this isn’t fake anymore?
Fire and Ice is a spicy hockey romance with heart, heat, humor, and a guaranteed HEA. This is the second book in the Boston Bobcats series and can be read as a standalone, although reading in order is recommended for the best experience!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
One fake relationship, a delicious dash of chemistry, and a recipe that's bound to get messy.
Kennedy Caplan bakes the best cakes in town, but taking her business to the next level requires more than butter and grit. She’s determined to turn her dreams into something bigger, even if the odds—and her bank account—are stacked against her.
Cameron Davies, NHL goalie and resident grump, has perfected the art of shutting people out. He’s content with his small circle, until life throws him off balance: a toxic ex back in town, teammates who won’t stop hovering, and a spotlight that refuses to dim.
His solution is as practical as it is risky: a fake relationship with Kennedy—his sister’s friend and the one person he can’t seem to ignore. The arrangement gives her business the financial investment it desperately needs, and provides Cameron a buffer from his ex and overprotective teammates.
But what begins as a strategic arrangement soon blurs into late-night calls and sparks neither of them can deny. And the more they lean into the lie, they’re forced to face the question they’ve both been avoiding: what if this isn’t fake anymore?
Fire and Ice is a spicy hockey romance with heart, heat, humor, and a guaranteed HEA. This is the second book in the Boston Bobcats series and can be read as a standalone, although reading in order is recommended for the best experience!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
April 18, 2026
4.25⭐️
Fake dating will always get me, especially when it’s sunshine meets grumpy. This dynamic was done so well, and I was hooked from the start.
From their very first date, I knew they were it. The way she kept the conversation flowing while also being so thoughtful about his celiac? I was already sold. And then he turns around and gets her a period care package?? Yeah… they’re both just incredibly intentional and caring in a way you don’t always see, and I loved that so much.
His vindictive ex can absolutely kick rocks because she was the worst. Truly. I hope she enjoys all those phone calls.
The found family in this story was everything. Between the team and the FMC’s friend group, it added so much heart. And I will never get tired of a chaotic hockey boys group chat.
Fake dating will always get me, especially when it’s sunshine meets grumpy. This dynamic was done so well, and I was hooked from the start.
From their very first date, I knew they were it. The way she kept the conversation flowing while also being so thoughtful about his celiac? I was already sold. And then he turns around and gets her a period care package?? Yeah… they’re both just incredibly intentional and caring in a way you don’t always see, and I loved that so much.
His vindictive ex can absolutely kick rocks because she was the worst. Truly. I hope she enjoys all those phone calls.
The found family in this story was everything. Between the team and the FMC’s friend group, it added so much heart. And I will never get tired of a chaotic hockey boys group chat.
April 29, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
When i finished the first book in this series I went straight to the next because Cam was such a joy to read. And his meeting with Kennedy was gold. He knows Ken is very 'grrr' so when Cam ex comes crawling back and try to win a date with him he asks her to bid on him. She does and they do go on that date. Its cute they have things in common and she makes sure the restaurant has gluten-free meals for him. It should have been the end of that but that ex keeps popping up and Cam does not want to be around her or get back together so he ask Ken to fake date him and he'll front money so she can get her kitchen/bakery off the ground. Win/win for both. And they were cute there relationship started off fake and turned real pretty fast.
I love that Ken stood up for her man and made sure the ex didn't scare her off. Or the drama she tried to pull at them.
The spice was good not to spicy and not to eh. We got a glimpse of the next couple. Or maybe couple.
No om/slight ow drama, no cheating, slight secondary character, drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶.5
Slow-burnish
Tiny push/pull from H
Fake dating
Found family
Praise kink
celiac
Mentioned parent death
Safe sex
Hea
Epilogue
When i finished the first book in this series I went straight to the next because Cam was such a joy to read. And his meeting with Kennedy was gold. He knows Ken is very 'grrr' so when Cam ex comes crawling back and try to win a date with him he asks her to bid on him. She does and they do go on that date. Its cute they have things in common and she makes sure the restaurant has gluten-free meals for him. It should have been the end of that but that ex keeps popping up and Cam does not want to be around her or get back together so he ask Ken to fake date him and he'll front money so she can get her kitchen/bakery off the ground. Win/win for both. And they were cute there relationship started off fake and turned real pretty fast.
I love that Ken stood up for her man and made sure the ex didn't scare her off. Or the drama she tried to pull at them.
The spice was good not to spicy and not to eh. We got a glimpse of the next couple. Or maybe couple.
No om/slight ow drama, no cheating, slight secondary character, drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶.5
Slow-burnish
Tiny push/pull from H
Fake dating
Found family
Praise kink
celiac
Mentioned parent death
Safe sex
Hea
Epilogue
April 23, 2026
I absolutely adored Cameron and Kennedy! I love a grumpy x sunshine moment and Cameron was suuuch and a grumpy goalie. Kennedy was hilarious with her take no BS attitude and her constant need to get Cameron chatting and answering her random questions. I was hooked on this story from the very beginning and enjoyed every moment of this book.
Can I also just say that I loved Kennedy's attention to Cameron's celiac needs? It's such a small but monumental show of love and support for him. Cameron is also so observant of Kennedy's needs and makes sure to show her. These two are so intentional about their love and support for each other and I love that so much. May this kind of love hit me like a fright train.
This was the perfect follow up to book one in this series! This set of characters are all so fun and lovable! I can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes.
Can I also just say that I loved Kennedy's attention to Cameron's celiac needs? It's such a small but monumental show of love and support for him. Cameron is also so observant of Kennedy's needs and makes sure to show her. These two are so intentional about their love and support for each other and I love that so much. May this kind of love hit me like a fright train.
This was the perfect follow up to book one in this series! This set of characters are all so fun and lovable! I can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes.
April 14, 2026
ARC review ✨
This was gooood! Solid 4.5 ⭐️
I was giggling and swooning my way through this 🤭 as you may know I’m a total sucker for hockey romance and this hit the spot.
Cam and Kennedy were amazing and I adored how supportive they were 🥹 Cam is so kind and considerate, I love him!!! Kennedy is hilarious, I loved her personality so much.
The banter and chemistry between them were unmatched and I had so much fun reading this. The supporting characters are also great and can’t wait to see who gets to go next 🤭
So if you like hockey romance, good banter and spice, with likable characters this is for you ✨
This was gooood! Solid 4.5 ⭐️
I was giggling and swooning my way through this 🤭 as you may know I’m a total sucker for hockey romance and this hit the spot.
Cam and Kennedy were amazing and I adored how supportive they were 🥹 Cam is so kind and considerate, I love him!!! Kennedy is hilarious, I loved her personality so much.
The banter and chemistry between them were unmatched and I had so much fun reading this. The supporting characters are also great and can’t wait to see who gets to go next 🤭
So if you like hockey romance, good banter and spice, with likable characters this is for you ✨
April 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
First of all thank you to ValentinesPR and the author for the e-arc of the book!
I was so excited to start reading this book. I'll always love a hockey romance. The book got me right away. I was invested right from the start. The fake-dating also was so so good. I loved the dynamic between Kennedy and Cameron.
Don't get me started on Cameron, what a cutie. He and Kennedy, love it. The friendship and the romance was so so good. I really love how Carly wrote them and how we see Cameron opening up to Kennedy and the other way around.
I haven't read the first book, but I definitely will because I ate this one up. Also can't wait for the next book to come out.
I highly definitely reading this book if you want a: grump x sunshine, fake-dating, hockey romance kind of book.
But beware there is some explicit content in this book.
*advertentie
First of all thank you to ValentinesPR and the author for the e-arc of the book!
I was so excited to start reading this book. I'll always love a hockey romance. The book got me right away. I was invested right from the start. The fake-dating also was so so good. I loved the dynamic between Kennedy and Cameron.
Don't get me started on Cameron, what a cutie. He and Kennedy, love it. The friendship and the romance was so so good. I really love how Carly wrote them and how we see Cameron opening up to Kennedy and the other way around.
I haven't read the first book, but I definitely will because I ate this one up. Also can't wait for the next book to come out.
I highly definitely reading this book if you want a: grump x sunshine, fake-dating, hockey romance kind of book.
But beware there is some explicit content in this book.
*advertentie
April 7, 2026
A TOP READ OF 2026!!!!! This world is one of my favorite places to go back to every time Carly releases a new book. I already want to read it again. 😭🫶🏼
Cameron Davies, I love you. But there’s another star here… KENNEDY CAPLAN, I adore you with my whole chest. MY GIRL. My grudge holding Queen. I’ve never read another character like her, and I never will. ALLLLLL the main character energy from her. THEY are perfection.
**I received an early copy of this book for author services purposes, and these are my honest thoughts.
Cameron Davies, I love you. But there’s another star here… KENNEDY CAPLAN, I adore you with my whole chest. MY GIRL. My grudge holding Queen. I’ve never read another character like her, and I never will. ALLLLLL the main character energy from her. THEY are perfection.
**I received an early copy of this book for author services purposes, and these are my honest thoughts.
April 27, 2026
NHL Goalie X Baker with Freckles
Tropes
🧊 Fake Dating
🔥 Dual Pov
🧊 Hockey Goalie X Baker
🔥 Celiac Representation
🧊 Sunshine X Grumpy
🔥 Slow burn with Spice
🧊 He falls First
🔥 Tattooed MMC
Part of a series - yes
Can be read as a standalone - yes
Spice 🌶️🌶️ / 5 (low/light spice level)
Things I loved
- I enjoyed the celiac representation, especially from the male athlete perspective. Getting his views on struggling to eat at restaurants and also feeling like a burden because he can’t eat gluten like other people can. His struggles really opened my eyes to the struggles that celiac people have, especially as someone who didn’t know much about celiac disease when I first started the book.
- I love group chat messages so seeing the boys talk about different issues in the camaraderie of the different players in the group chat was honestly so cute.
- I enjoyed the sunshine female main character that is Kennedy. I love that. She just said whatever she was thinking and doesn’t ever really get embarrassed. I think her brutal honesty is refreshing, especially when women are often put into boxes to be quiet and save face. Kennedy does not conform to the gender roles that are set in society and we’ll talk about sex openly, which I really appreciate, especially in modern society.
- This book had all my favorite tropes, including fake dating, sunshine and grumpy, hockey, dual pov and spice. Getting to see both sides of them falling in love with each other and trying to keep it cool because they’re supposed to be “fake” dating was everything for me.
- I think the foreshadowing of Jake’s problems, especially with his dad is going to be interesting to dive more into later on in the series. I enjoy when books set up certain elements for the next book or future books.
What I liked but felt like could be developed more
- I think I would’ve liked to have a Gigi confrontation. Especially when she went out of her way to be vile to Kennedy I feel like there should’ve been a confrontation about her actions. Or possibly Gigi running into Kennedy and Cameron later on when she’s not as successful as they are.
- I also would’ve loved a second epilogue with her actually being at the wedding with all the other Formula One drivers from Carly Robyn’s first series (Drive Me).
However, that’s really just nitpicking and just something I would like expanded, but the book was honestly amazing. It is a great contemporary romance. That is a quick read. Has a lot of banter along with cute butterfly, kick your feet moments.
🥅🧊🥅🧊
I would recommend this book to people who love Blind Side by Kandi Steiner. Both are sports romances with the fake dating trope. Spicy dual pov reads that lead to happily ever afters!
Tropes
🧊 Fake Dating
🔥 Dual Pov
🧊 Hockey Goalie X Baker
🔥 Celiac Representation
🧊 Sunshine X Grumpy
🔥 Slow burn with Spice
🧊 He falls First
🔥 Tattooed MMC
Part of a series - yes
Can be read as a standalone - yes
Spice 🌶️🌶️ / 5 (low/light spice level)
Things I loved
- I enjoyed the celiac representation, especially from the male athlete perspective. Getting his views on struggling to eat at restaurants and also feeling like a burden because he can’t eat gluten like other people can. His struggles really opened my eyes to the struggles that celiac people have, especially as someone who didn’t know much about celiac disease when I first started the book.
- I love group chat messages so seeing the boys talk about different issues in the camaraderie of the different players in the group chat was honestly so cute.
- I enjoyed the sunshine female main character that is Kennedy. I love that. She just said whatever she was thinking and doesn’t ever really get embarrassed. I think her brutal honesty is refreshing, especially when women are often put into boxes to be quiet and save face. Kennedy does not conform to the gender roles that are set in society and we’ll talk about sex openly, which I really appreciate, especially in modern society.
- This book had all my favorite tropes, including fake dating, sunshine and grumpy, hockey, dual pov and spice. Getting to see both sides of them falling in love with each other and trying to keep it cool because they’re supposed to be “fake” dating was everything for me.
- I think the foreshadowing of Jake’s problems, especially with his dad is going to be interesting to dive more into later on in the series. I enjoy when books set up certain elements for the next book or future books.
What I liked but felt like could be developed more
- I think I would’ve liked to have a Gigi confrontation. Especially when she went out of her way to be vile to Kennedy I feel like there should’ve been a confrontation about her actions. Or possibly Gigi running into Kennedy and Cameron later on when she’s not as successful as they are.
- I also would’ve loved a second epilogue with her actually being at the wedding with all the other Formula One drivers from Carly Robyn’s first series (Drive Me).
However, that’s really just nitpicking and just something I would like expanded, but the book was honestly amazing. It is a great contemporary romance. That is a quick read. Has a lot of banter along with cute butterfly, kick your feet moments.
🥅🧊🥅🧊
I would recommend this book to people who love Blind Side by Kandi Steiner. Both are sports romances with the fake dating trope. Spicy dual pov reads that lead to happily ever afters!
April 17, 2026
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙚,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙪𝙩, 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙. “𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚.”
Fire & Ice by Carly Robyn
4.5☆
This book had me freaking hooked (no pun intended)—one of the best opposites attract, grumpy x sunshine, he falls HARD hockey romances I’ve had the pleasure of devouring (pun absolutely intended).
Kennedy is an absolute force—bakery owner, chaos gremlin (affectionate), and running on pure determination while trying to keep her business afloat. She’s hilarious, bold, and unapologetically herself… but underneath it all, she’s loyal, thoughtful, and carrying real “prove them wrong” pressure that makes you root for her hard.
“𝙆𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙙𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙩. 𝙋𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙣.”
And then there’s Cameron Davies— grumpy and guarded. An NHL goalie who prefers quiet, control, and emotional distance. He’s basically a human “do not disturb” sign… until Kennedy bulldozes her way into his life with sunshine and gluten-free snickerdoodles. Not to mention, Cam has a special place in my heart, quietly dealing with his autoimmune— the silent struggle he goes through, not wanting to be a burden on anyone or treated any differently because of it 😭
The fake dating setup is freaking *chef’s kiss*. What starts as a mutually beneficial “let’s pretend” situation quickly turns into something real and a little dangerous. The chemistry is there for the heat, but it’s the little things that make it hit—the quiet support and noticing each other in ways no one else does.
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙪𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚, 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙛𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩? 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙤 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠.”
Their dynamic is peak grumpy x sunshine, with banter that snaps and emotional moments that sneak up on you. He falls first, but she crashes in right after, and it all feels natural instead of chaotic.
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨—𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙖𝙬, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝙉𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙞𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣.”
There’s just enough angst to keep things interesting, toxic ex, personal struggles, emotional walls, but it never overwhelms the story. At its core, this is about two people choosing each other, over and over again, without unnecessary drama.
✨ Grumpy goalie x sunshine baker
✨ Fake dating that gets too real
✨ Found family hockey vibes
✨ Humor, heart, and perfectly placed spice
Cameron may be ice… but Kennedy was always going to make him melt.
*Thank you to Carly Robyn & Valentine PR for this arc opportunity!
Fire & Ice by Carly Robyn
4.5☆
This book had me freaking hooked (no pun intended)—one of the best opposites attract, grumpy x sunshine, he falls HARD hockey romances I’ve had the pleasure of devouring (pun absolutely intended).
Kennedy is an absolute force—bakery owner, chaos gremlin (affectionate), and running on pure determination while trying to keep her business afloat. She’s hilarious, bold, and unapologetically herself… but underneath it all, she’s loyal, thoughtful, and carrying real “prove them wrong” pressure that makes you root for her hard.
“𝙆𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙙𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙩. 𝙋𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙣.”
And then there’s Cameron Davies— grumpy and guarded. An NHL goalie who prefers quiet, control, and emotional distance. He’s basically a human “do not disturb” sign… until Kennedy bulldozes her way into his life with sunshine and gluten-free snickerdoodles. Not to mention, Cam has a special place in my heart, quietly dealing with his autoimmune— the silent struggle he goes through, not wanting to be a burden on anyone or treated any differently because of it 😭
The fake dating setup is freaking *chef’s kiss*. What starts as a mutually beneficial “let’s pretend” situation quickly turns into something real and a little dangerous. The chemistry is there for the heat, but it’s the little things that make it hit—the quiet support and noticing each other in ways no one else does.
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙪𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚, 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙛𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩? 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙤 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠.”
Their dynamic is peak grumpy x sunshine, with banter that snaps and emotional moments that sneak up on you. He falls first, but she crashes in right after, and it all feels natural instead of chaotic.
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨—𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙖𝙬, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝙉𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙞𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣.”
There’s just enough angst to keep things interesting, toxic ex, personal struggles, emotional walls, but it never overwhelms the story. At its core, this is about two people choosing each other, over and over again, without unnecessary drama.
✨ Grumpy goalie x sunshine baker
✨ Fake dating that gets too real
✨ Found family hockey vibes
✨ Humor, heart, and perfectly placed spice
Cameron may be ice… but Kennedy was always going to make him melt.
*Thank you to Carly Robyn & Valentine PR for this arc opportunity!
April 30, 2026
Thanks to Valentine Pr and Carly Robyn for this arc!
Tropes:
🧡Alpha Hero
🩷Fake Relationship
🧡Forced Proximity
🩷 Grumpy/Sunshine
🧡Hockey
🩷Jealous Possessive
🧡Opposites Attract
🩷Slow Burn
🧡Hockey goalie x Baker
🇮🇹
Secondo libro della serie e dell'autrice che leggo (di cui una serie è già stata tradotta in italiano), avevo aspettative altissime per questo libro che sono state SUPERATE.
Ho amato la relazione tra i protagonisti (anche il fatto che ad un certo punto entrambi hanno dimenticato che la loro relazione era fake). Ho amato il personaggio di Cam e mi ha fatto tenerezza leggere delle sue ansie, delle sue reazioni quando ha capito che alcuni atteggiamenti che aveva visto e vissuto nella sua ex relazione (tossica) non erano per niente normali. Il fatto che abbia supportato subito Kennedy e l'ha aiutata a realizzare il suo sogno, a viverlo e goderselo senza paura dei pregiudizi altrui ha fatto salire il rating alle stelle.
Quindi, vi consiglio di leggerlo se avete voglia di leggere di Cameron Davies, goalie possessivo, e Kennedy Caplan, la baker migliore della città.
Questo è il secondo libro della serie, autoconclusivo, ma se volete seguire l'ordine vi consiglio di leggere il primo soprattutto se volete leggere di un'amante dei libri (che lavora in libreria) e un giocatore di hockey (sottone per lei dal primo sguardo)
🇬🇧
This is the second book in the series by this author (a series of which has already been translated into Italian). I had incredibly high expectations for this book, and they were EXCEEDED.
I loved the relationship between the main characters (even the fact that at a certain point they both forgot that their relationship was fake). I loved Cam's character, and I was touched by reading about his anxieties and his reactions when he realized that certain behaviors he'd seen and experienced in his former (toxic) relationship were anything but normal. His immediate support for Kennedy and his help in realizing her dream, living it and enjoying it without fear of other people's prejudices, skyrocketed my rating.
So, I recommend reading it if you want to read about Cameron Davies, the possessive doorman, and Kennedy Caplan, the best baker in town.
This is the second book in the series, a standalone, but if you want to follow the order I recommend reading the first one especially if you want to read about a book lover (who works in a bookstore) and a hockey player (who falls for her from the first glance)
Tropes:
🧡Alpha Hero
🩷Fake Relationship
🧡Forced Proximity
🩷 Grumpy/Sunshine
🧡Hockey
🩷Jealous Possessive
🧡Opposites Attract
🩷Slow Burn
🧡Hockey goalie x Baker
🇮🇹
Secondo libro della serie e dell'autrice che leggo (di cui una serie è già stata tradotta in italiano), avevo aspettative altissime per questo libro che sono state SUPERATE.
Ho amato la relazione tra i protagonisti (anche il fatto che ad un certo punto entrambi hanno dimenticato che la loro relazione era fake). Ho amato il personaggio di Cam e mi ha fatto tenerezza leggere delle sue ansie, delle sue reazioni quando ha capito che alcuni atteggiamenti che aveva visto e vissuto nella sua ex relazione (tossica) non erano per niente normali. Il fatto che abbia supportato subito Kennedy e l'ha aiutata a realizzare il suo sogno, a viverlo e goderselo senza paura dei pregiudizi altrui ha fatto salire il rating alle stelle.
Quindi, vi consiglio di leggerlo se avete voglia di leggere di Cameron Davies, goalie possessivo, e Kennedy Caplan, la baker migliore della città.
Questo è il secondo libro della serie, autoconclusivo, ma se volete seguire l'ordine vi consiglio di leggere il primo soprattutto se volete leggere di un'amante dei libri (che lavora in libreria) e un giocatore di hockey (sottone per lei dal primo sguardo)
🇬🇧
This is the second book in the series by this author (a series of which has already been translated into Italian). I had incredibly high expectations for this book, and they were EXCEEDED.
I loved the relationship between the main characters (even the fact that at a certain point they both forgot that their relationship was fake). I loved Cam's character, and I was touched by reading about his anxieties and his reactions when he realized that certain behaviors he'd seen and experienced in his former (toxic) relationship were anything but normal. His immediate support for Kennedy and his help in realizing her dream, living it and enjoying it without fear of other people's prejudices, skyrocketed my rating.
So, I recommend reading it if you want to read about Cameron Davies, the possessive doorman, and Kennedy Caplan, the best baker in town.
This is the second book in the series, a standalone, but if you want to follow the order I recommend reading the first one especially if you want to read about a book lover (who works in a bookstore) and a hockey player (who falls for her from the first glance)
April 23, 2026
Fire and Ice by Carly Robyn
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Carly Robyn and Valentine PR for this ARC. This is my honest review.
I absolutely loved Ice Ice baby, so I was very excited to read this book. It did not disappoint. Kennedy and Cameron’s dynamic was very different from Cole and Maya, but I loved it. I loved that it was different. It makes for such an interesting friend group. I’m obsessed with the found family and friendships in this series. I have a feeling this will be a series that sticks with me for a while after all the books are out and read. I suggest jumping on the bandwagon if you haven’t already.
Kennedy and Cameron are literally fire & ice, so the title is perfect. She’s sunshine and he’s grump. She is a main character and he would love nothing more than to be left alone and hide in the background. Throw in some fake dating, but real feelings. I’m sold!
I know this is fake, but why does it feel more real than anything I've had before?
I loved these characters individually as much as I loved them together. They both have things they are going through alone, but they decide to be “alone together” and be there for each other. They are exactly what the other needs. I’m so happy to have witnessed their love story. It’s also so sexy to see a man be so supportive of his woman’s dreams.
“It's so fucking sexy watching you in your element,"
This series is phenomenal. I’m swooning, laughing, crying, and just having a blast. Highly recommend reading!
Tropes:
1 cup of Grumpy x Sunshine
½ cup of Fake Dating
3 tbsp of He Falls First
1 tsp slow burn
3 cups of NHL Goalie x Baker
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Carly Robyn and Valentine PR for this ARC. This is my honest review.
I absolutely loved Ice Ice baby, so I was very excited to read this book. It did not disappoint. Kennedy and Cameron’s dynamic was very different from Cole and Maya, but I loved it. I loved that it was different. It makes for such an interesting friend group. I’m obsessed with the found family and friendships in this series. I have a feeling this will be a series that sticks with me for a while after all the books are out and read. I suggest jumping on the bandwagon if you haven’t already.
Kennedy and Cameron are literally fire & ice, so the title is perfect. She’s sunshine and he’s grump. She is a main character and he would love nothing more than to be left alone and hide in the background. Throw in some fake dating, but real feelings. I’m sold!
I know this is fake, but why does it feel more real than anything I've had before?
I loved these characters individually as much as I loved them together. They both have things they are going through alone, but they decide to be “alone together” and be there for each other. They are exactly what the other needs. I’m so happy to have witnessed their love story. It’s also so sexy to see a man be so supportive of his woman’s dreams.
“It's so fucking sexy watching you in your element,"
This series is phenomenal. I’m swooning, laughing, crying, and just having a blast. Highly recommend reading!
Tropes:
1 cup of Grumpy x Sunshine
½ cup of Fake Dating
3 tbsp of He Falls First
1 tsp slow burn
3 cups of NHL Goalie x Baker
April 22, 2026
I’m crying as I’m finishing up the epilogue because this was one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. I’ve read plenty of books about grumpy hockey goalies and sunshiny bakers (&/or other professions), but this one takes the cake as one of the BEST and one of the most emotional too. The first book the Boston Bobcats series had me hooked on Carly Robyn’s writing and it really shone through in this book. The characters had such fun, and unique personalities. I loved Kennedy so much, with her lack of filter, endless inappropriate jokes, and unhinged sarcastic comments that shouldn’t be funny but are. Cameron was also such a sweetheart, he’s a grumpy wall of stone on the outside, but on the inside he’s a man who just wants to be chosen and loved for who he is. I loved the representation of him being celiac, and how this big guy positively melted into a puddle when Kennedy demands people serve her man food that he can eat. The plot was amazing, I love a fake dating plot and I loved the tension but also the clear love in this one. The chemistry between Kennedy and Cameron is off the charts, I was swooning at how cute they were together, with their playful bickering but also fierce protectiveness of each other. Also I feel like I should add that there’s no third act breakup which was STUNNING by the way; because no, you don’t need them to randomly breakup to make your story emotional or entertaining. There are a couple plot twists that had me on the edge of my seat, but ultimately it’s an HEA, which was so damn well deserved. Please read this book, it’s perfect for any hockey romance lover and I give this a 5/5
April 24, 2026
Kennedy Caplan is in the Bobcat hockey world now. Her best friend is now dating a player and the baker is finding herself around a lot of hockey players.
Especially Cameron Davies. Cameron is the team's goalie and he has a problem. His ex is back. His ex who broke him. His ex who is related to the teams owner. She cheated on him and now is back. And is aggressively pursuing him.
Cameron asks Kennedy to bid on him during a team auction and the "date" she wins ends... well, can't spoil it. But Kennedy is shocked to hear back from Cameron who has a proposition. Pretend to date him, and he'll financially back her dreams bakery. Win, win?
Kennedy is such a free spirit. I think that whatever she thinks comes immediately out. No filter. And Cameron? He's definitely grumpy energy. Not as free as Kennedy. How in the world can they make this work?
They really tore down the walls in this one. Kennedy shows Cameron what a good woman is.
Now there is a book one, but this can be read as a standalone!
Especially Cameron Davies. Cameron is the team's goalie and he has a problem. His ex is back. His ex who broke him. His ex who is related to the teams owner. She cheated on him and now is back. And is aggressively pursuing him.
Cameron asks Kennedy to bid on him during a team auction and the "date" she wins ends... well, can't spoil it. But Kennedy is shocked to hear back from Cameron who has a proposition. Pretend to date him, and he'll financially back her dreams bakery. Win, win?
Kennedy is such a free spirit. I think that whatever she thinks comes immediately out. No filter. And Cameron? He's definitely grumpy energy. Not as free as Kennedy. How in the world can they make this work?
They really tore down the walls in this one. Kennedy shows Cameron what a good woman is.
Now there is a book one, but this can be read as a standalone!
April 30, 2026
4.5 stars! ⭐️
This was such a fun read! This is the second book in the Boston Bobcats series and I just loved seeing these two characters come to life! After reading the first book I just KNEW I needed to find out more about Cameron and his grumpy self.
The banter and tension between Cameron and Kennedy was everythinggg! Grumpy x Sunshine, Fake Dating, He falls first?! LOVE 🫶🏼 seeing their characters grow together and realize the love they had for one another made my heart melt. Also had me giddy just how cute and funny/badass Kennedy was!
The writing in this book was beautiful and the perfect amount of slow burn
Thank you Carly and Valentine PR for the ARC! 🧡 loved this one and can’t wait to continue to see this world grow!
This was such a fun read! This is the second book in the Boston Bobcats series and I just loved seeing these two characters come to life! After reading the first book I just KNEW I needed to find out more about Cameron and his grumpy self.
The banter and tension between Cameron and Kennedy was everythinggg! Grumpy x Sunshine, Fake Dating, He falls first?! LOVE 🫶🏼 seeing their characters grow together and realize the love they had for one another made my heart melt. Also had me giddy just how cute and funny/badass Kennedy was!
The writing in this book was beautiful and the perfect amount of slow burn
Thank you Carly and Valentine PR for the ARC! 🧡 loved this one and can’t wait to continue to see this world grow!
May 1, 2026
Stop what you’re doing and read this book right freaking now!!
Hockey goals. Goalie goals. Boyfriend goals. This book delivers on all of them.
It was pure perfection packed with laugh-out-loud moments, soft and tender scenes that hit you right in the feels, top-tier banter, and just the right amount of revenge on an ex to keep things extra satisfying.
Every piece of this story worked, and I was completely hooked from start to finish, to the point I didn’t want it to end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ very well-deserved stars!
Now please, I’m going to need the next one ASAP because I am more than ready to devour it.
Hockey goals. Goalie goals. Boyfriend goals. This book delivers on all of them.
It was pure perfection packed with laugh-out-loud moments, soft and tender scenes that hit you right in the feels, top-tier banter, and just the right amount of revenge on an ex to keep things extra satisfying.
Every piece of this story worked, and I was completely hooked from start to finish, to the point I didn’t want it to end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ very well-deserved stars!
Now please, I’m going to need the next one ASAP because I am more than ready to devour it.
April 24, 2026
I felt incredibly lucky to snag an Advanced Reader’s Copy of Carly Robyn’s “Fire and Ice”. Having already preordered it after falling in love with the first book, “Ice Ice Baby”, I had high expectations, and this sequel delivered pure joy.
The story follows Kennedy, an entrepreneur looking for capital to expand her bakery, and Cameron, a grumpy hockey player (who actually growls!) looking for a buffer to keep his ex at bay. Their solution? A fake-dating arrangement where Cameron invests in her business in exchange for her acting as his girlfriend.
In my book, Carly Robyn is the reigning queen of sports romance. She offers so much more than just "sports and spice" her characters possess genuine depth. I loved watching Cameron’s layers peel away to reveal the heart beneath the grumpiness. Robyn’s dialogue is masterfully crafted, and her humor is genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. Whether you want hockey or F1, Carly Robyn is now the first name I’ll recommend.
The story follows Kennedy, an entrepreneur looking for capital to expand her bakery, and Cameron, a grumpy hockey player (who actually growls!) looking for a buffer to keep his ex at bay. Their solution? A fake-dating arrangement where Cameron invests in her business in exchange for her acting as his girlfriend.
In my book, Carly Robyn is the reigning queen of sports romance. She offers so much more than just "sports and spice" her characters possess genuine depth. I loved watching Cameron’s layers peel away to reveal the heart beneath the grumpiness. Robyn’s dialogue is masterfully crafted, and her humor is genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. Whether you want hockey or F1, Carly Robyn is now the first name I’ll recommend.
April 29, 2026
*ARC REVIEW*
Unsurprisingly, I read this in one sitting and ate up every single word. I knew Cameron was going to be a favorite and I was 100% correct.
I love a big, broody, and grumpy goalie.
Unsurprisingly, I read this in one sitting and ate up every single word. I knew Cameron was going to be a favorite and I was 100% correct.
I love a big, broody, and grumpy goalie.
April 23, 2026
I love me a fake dating hockey romance!! This had the best banter. Cameron was a super grumpie goalie and Kennedy was the bubbly baker. They were a match made in heaven. They perfectly balance each other out and bring out the best in each other. I love Carly’s writing and I will be reading everything she releases.
April 25, 2026
4.5 ✨ ARC Review!!
This was my first book by Carly Robyn and I absolutely loved it!! The chemistry between Cameron and Kennedy was SOOO GOOD! I could not put this book down! And the best part of this book was NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP 🥹 Definitely about to go read Maya and Cole’s book right now!
This was my first book by Carly Robyn and I absolutely loved it!! The chemistry between Cameron and Kennedy was SOOO GOOD! I could not put this book down! And the best part of this book was NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP 🥹 Definitely about to go read Maya and Cole’s book right now!
April 30, 2026
#Review: *Fire And Ice* - Carly Robyn - ARC [18+]
4.9/5✨
3/5🌶️
Cameron Davles was far from wanting a relationship. Kennedy Caplan was focused on building her new business with cakes from scratch and wanting to make it grow. Somehow, they were forced by circumstances to enter into a fake relationship, in order to keep Cameron's ex girlfriend away from him. But can they do this without getting the lines blurred? Because even the grumpy hockey player was mesmerized by Kennedy's beautiful personality and looks.
I had the bestest time with Kennedy and Cameron!! 😍 I adooored that whole banter between them and how different they were as personalities. Cameron was super grumpy, because of his though previous love experiences and that made him reluctant in pursuing a long time relationship. On the other side we had Kennedy, who was such a vibrant soul and I truly liked the way she could start rambling and getting everything out of her soul when she was curious🤭. That made me laugh pretty often🤣. It was nice that the secondary characters were often present in their lives, because that added something fun to this whole story, having that tight connection which I adore! Of course that I also liked those little bickering moments between Cameron and his teammates, which offered me some really delicious scenes🤭.
This was a book which I couldn't put it down, making me read it in only one stand 🤭. It was so captivating with everything that happened between Cameron and Kennedy and also all the things that happened around them. It was super fun, with tons of chemistry, good vibes, a little drama and, of course, spicy moments. I highly recommend the book if you are looking for a story that will relax you and make you enjoy some truly amazing characters.
Thank you so much Valentine Pr and Carly for this awesome e-ARC. Loved it, loved it, loved it!!!!
✨Tropes
▫️Grumpy x Sunshine
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Fake Dating
▫️He Falls First
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Spicy
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
4.9/5✨
3/5🌶️
Cameron Davles was far from wanting a relationship. Kennedy Caplan was focused on building her new business with cakes from scratch and wanting to make it grow. Somehow, they were forced by circumstances to enter into a fake relationship, in order to keep Cameron's ex girlfriend away from him. But can they do this without getting the lines blurred? Because even the grumpy hockey player was mesmerized by Kennedy's beautiful personality and looks.
I had the bestest time with Kennedy and Cameron!! 😍 I adooored that whole banter between them and how different they were as personalities. Cameron was super grumpy, because of his though previous love experiences and that made him reluctant in pursuing a long time relationship. On the other side we had Kennedy, who was such a vibrant soul and I truly liked the way she could start rambling and getting everything out of her soul when she was curious🤭. That made me laugh pretty often🤣. It was nice that the secondary characters were often present in their lives, because that added something fun to this whole story, having that tight connection which I adore! Of course that I also liked those little bickering moments between Cameron and his teammates, which offered me some really delicious scenes🤭.
This was a book which I couldn't put it down, making me read it in only one stand 🤭. It was so captivating with everything that happened between Cameron and Kennedy and also all the things that happened around them. It was super fun, with tons of chemistry, good vibes, a little drama and, of course, spicy moments. I highly recommend the book if you are looking for a story that will relax you and make you enjoy some truly amazing characters.
Thank you so much Valentine Pr and Carly for this awesome e-ARC. Loved it, loved it, loved it!!!!
✨Tropes
▫️Grumpy x Sunshine
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Fake Dating
▫️He Falls First
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Spicy
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
April 29, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
Another one added to the favourites list and honestly I think I might have loved this even more than the first book?
I am such a sucker for a good grumpy x sunshine dynamic and this delivered perfectly. Cameron has that guarded closed off energy while Kennedy is so warm determined and full of life and watching those two worlds come together was everything I wanted. Their chemistry felt natural and I loved how their relationship developed over time instead of rushing.
I also really appreciated that both characters stood strong on their own. Cameron was not just the grumpy one and Kennedy was not just the sunshine girl. They both had depth their own struggles and their own goals. Kennedy’s ambition with her baking business was one of my favourite parts of the book. You could really feel how much it meant to her and I loved seeing a female character so driven and passionate about building something for herself.
And the tropes were done so well. The fake dating did not feel over the top or awkward. It actually added tension and gave us so many good moments between them. Watching it shift from pretending to something real was written so well. Also sweetheart 🥵
One thing I especially loved was the celiac representation through Cameron. It was not just mentioned and forgotten it felt like a real part of his life and I really appreciated how naturally it was included in the story.
Overall this was such a comforting engaging read with great characters strong chemistry and some of my favourite tropes done right. Definitely a standout for me and I will be recommending it 🫶
Another one added to the favourites list and honestly I think I might have loved this even more than the first book?
I am such a sucker for a good grumpy x sunshine dynamic and this delivered perfectly. Cameron has that guarded closed off energy while Kennedy is so warm determined and full of life and watching those two worlds come together was everything I wanted. Their chemistry felt natural and I loved how their relationship developed over time instead of rushing.
I also really appreciated that both characters stood strong on their own. Cameron was not just the grumpy one and Kennedy was not just the sunshine girl. They both had depth their own struggles and their own goals. Kennedy’s ambition with her baking business was one of my favourite parts of the book. You could really feel how much it meant to her and I loved seeing a female character so driven and passionate about building something for herself.
And the tropes were done so well. The fake dating did not feel over the top or awkward. It actually added tension and gave us so many good moments between them. Watching it shift from pretending to something real was written so well. Also sweetheart 🥵
One thing I especially loved was the celiac representation through Cameron. It was not just mentioned and forgotten it felt like a real part of his life and I really appreciated how naturally it was included in the story.
Overall this was such a comforting engaging read with great characters strong chemistry and some of my favourite tropes done right. Definitely a standout for me and I will be recommending it 🫶
April 21, 2026
5⭐️
I LOVE THEM YOUR HONOR!!!
No but seriously wow I'm bowing. This was BEAUTIFUL 😩
I am barkin like a dog at Fake Dating. What is perfect with fake dating you say??? Oh when hes Grumpy grump and shes brighter than the sun. And then he falls first?! Here😀🫴💳
Kennedy...the woman that you are. She is so freaking hilarious. We love a hard working woman who's so funny and HOT!!! I havent had a good laugh in a while and the stuff that came out her had me dropping my phone just laughing so hard😭 I love how strong she was, inside and out. Shes truly just the cutest character🥹
"Fuck, I hate when a man makes a good point, because on principle, I hate agreeing with men."
Now......my boy Cameron. WHAT A MARSHMALLOW OF A MAN. I love how she was a baker, he had celiac and it brought light to the daily occurrences of what they can eat. I love she stood up for him and never made him feel like bad. It was so heartwarming to see and I thank you Carley for writing him🥹 He had such a soft spot for her(and her baking). The way he was BLUSHIN when they texted. The texts.....HILARIOUS. The banter within it ...youre kidding. We love a hockey player but there is something about the goalie. They hold such power and my heart may have been in my ass at one point.
What started off fake morphed into the sweetest relationship. Honestly I forgot they were fake dating, they were together from the start😏
These two get big kisses from me. Love love love. 😩🤌
Thank you Valentine pr and Carley for this beautiful arc🥹
Booksta-romance.with.bri
I LOVE THEM YOUR HONOR!!!
No but seriously wow I'm bowing. This was BEAUTIFUL 😩
I am barkin like a dog at Fake Dating. What is perfect with fake dating you say??? Oh when hes Grumpy grump and shes brighter than the sun. And then he falls first?! Here😀🫴💳
Kennedy...the woman that you are. She is so freaking hilarious. We love a hard working woman who's so funny and HOT!!! I havent had a good laugh in a while and the stuff that came out her had me dropping my phone just laughing so hard😭 I love how strong she was, inside and out. Shes truly just the cutest character🥹
"Fuck, I hate when a man makes a good point, because on principle, I hate agreeing with men."
Now......my boy Cameron. WHAT A MARSHMALLOW OF A MAN. I love how she was a baker, he had celiac and it brought light to the daily occurrences of what they can eat. I love she stood up for him and never made him feel like bad. It was so heartwarming to see and I thank you Carley for writing him🥹 He had such a soft spot for her(and her baking). The way he was BLUSHIN when they texted. The texts.....HILARIOUS. The banter within it ...youre kidding. We love a hockey player but there is something about the goalie. They hold such power and my heart may have been in my ass at one point.
What started off fake morphed into the sweetest relationship. Honestly I forgot they were fake dating, they were together from the start😏
These two get big kisses from me. Love love love. 😩🤌
Thank you Valentine pr and Carley for this beautiful arc🥹
Booksta-romance.with.bri
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2026
It's always the grumpy goalie that does it for me… I wonder why that is 🧐
First of all, a huge thank you to the author and Valentine PR for sending me an early copy of this book and trusting me with her work. Having absolutely loved Ice Ice Baby, it should come as no surprise that I totally devoured Cameron and Kennedy's story as well.
From page one, this book had me completely invested and I devoured it in no time.
As with Ice Ice Baby, the depiction of girlhood and female friendship - particularly between Maya and Kennedy - was beautiful. With Carly's books, I've discovered that it's never just a love story - although there'd be nothing wrong with that either - it's somehow always more.
Kennedy is hilarious and headstrong, and she's definitely someone I'd befriend in real life. At times, I thought 'she is me; I am her', particularly regarding her mindset of forgiving but not forgetting.
And we can't forget Cameron, because oh Lord 🛐 From the moment he opened his mouth, he charmed me - and my panties off. Was he a bit rude at first? Maybe, but he certainly makes up for it with his dirty mouth, and we see more of his warm heart quite soon.
Honestly, this book and Kenn's personality were a rare ray of sunshine ⛅️ in my shitty week, so if you need a little pick-me-up or simply want to read about a 6'5" grumpy NHL goalie finishing in his pants, then this is the book for you 🤭
There are also so many Easter eggs 🪺 for future books, and I for one cannot wait to see what else Carly has up her sleeve.
(in the meantime, you'll find me catching up on her other series)
4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
First of all, a huge thank you to the author and Valentine PR for sending me an early copy of this book and trusting me with her work. Having absolutely loved Ice Ice Baby, it should come as no surprise that I totally devoured Cameron and Kennedy's story as well.
From page one, this book had me completely invested and I devoured it in no time.
As with Ice Ice Baby, the depiction of girlhood and female friendship - particularly between Maya and Kennedy - was beautiful. With Carly's books, I've discovered that it's never just a love story - although there'd be nothing wrong with that either - it's somehow always more.
Kennedy is hilarious and headstrong, and she's definitely someone I'd befriend in real life. At times, I thought 'she is me; I am her', particularly regarding her mindset of forgiving but not forgetting.
And we can't forget Cameron, because oh Lord 🛐 From the moment he opened his mouth, he charmed me - and my panties off. Was he a bit rude at first? Maybe, but he certainly makes up for it with his dirty mouth, and we see more of his warm heart quite soon.
Honestly, this book and Kenn's personality were a rare ray of sunshine ⛅️ in my shitty week, so if you need a little pick-me-up or simply want to read about a 6'5" grumpy NHL goalie finishing in his pants, then this is the book for you 🤭
There are also so many Easter eggs 🪺 for future books, and I for one cannot wait to see what else Carly has up her sleeve.
(in the meantime, you'll find me catching up on her other series)
4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
April 18, 2026
ARC REVIEW
4,75⭐️
•
“You can be alone,sweetheart, but we’re going to be alone together.”
•
🏒Goalie x Baker
🍰Fake dating
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
🎭Slow burn
OMG I loved this book sooo much, I literally couldn’t put it down!!
The writing was really good and super enjoyable, it just flowed so easily and made the whole story even more addictive.
Kennedy is such a hurricane (in the best way possible). She’s chaotic, impulsive, and very much a “do it for the plot” kind of girl, and I really liked her for that. Even if we’re very different, I still found myself relating to her in some ways. She’s just so full of energy and the complete opposite of Cameron.
Cameron, on the other hand, is a grumpy goalie who loves peace, quiet, and order. But he’s also such a good person. I really liked seeing his softer side, especially through his relationships with his teammates and his sister.
Their relationship starts as a fake dating situation — he needs to get his ex to understand that they’re really over, and she needs someone who can help her invest in her baking career. That’s how they end up in this arrangement, but of course, things don’t stay fake for long. The more time they spend together, the more their chemistry and emotional connection grow, and it becomes impossible to ignore.
The banter and the tension were sooo good, I found myself giggling all the time.
Overall, such a fun and addictive read, I enjoyed it so much.
4,75⭐️
•
“You can be alone,sweetheart, but we’re going to be alone together.”
•
🏒Goalie x Baker
🍰Fake dating
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
🎭Slow burn
OMG I loved this book sooo much, I literally couldn’t put it down!!
The writing was really good and super enjoyable, it just flowed so easily and made the whole story even more addictive.
Kennedy is such a hurricane (in the best way possible). She’s chaotic, impulsive, and very much a “do it for the plot” kind of girl, and I really liked her for that. Even if we’re very different, I still found myself relating to her in some ways. She’s just so full of energy and the complete opposite of Cameron.
Cameron, on the other hand, is a grumpy goalie who loves peace, quiet, and order. But he’s also such a good person. I really liked seeing his softer side, especially through his relationships with his teammates and his sister.
Their relationship starts as a fake dating situation — he needs to get his ex to understand that they’re really over, and she needs someone who can help her invest in her baking career. That’s how they end up in this arrangement, but of course, things don’t stay fake for long. The more time they spend together, the more their chemistry and emotional connection grow, and it becomes impossible to ignore.
The banter and the tension were sooo good, I found myself giggling all the time.
Overall, such a fun and addictive read, I enjoyed it so much.
April 30, 2026
This is fake dating + grumpy goalie + baker trying to keep her life together, which already tells you everything you need to know.
Kennedy? Stressed, broke, and one minor inconvenience away from spiraling....but still out here trying to build her business like a queen. She’s very “I have a plan” while everything around her is actively falling apart.
Cameron? Certified grump. NHL goalie. Emotionally unavailable… until suddenly he’s not. The man goes from “this is strictly business” to acting like a protective menace real quick. And the second he starts caring? Yeah, it’s over.
Also this book runs on:
Fake dating that is not convincing anyone
Teammates who absolutely know what’s going on
....and an ex who exists purely to make everything worse
The best part is watching them try to pretend this is all “strategic” while:
They’re texting constantly
Getting way too comfortable
....and very obviously catching feelings
Like please. Be so serious.
Is the plot groundbreaking? No.
Do they fold immediately? Yes.
Did I enjoy every second? Also yes.
You’re here for:
Grumpy MMC who softens FAST
FMC just trying to survive life
Fake dating that fools absolutely no one
…and it delivers exactly that.
Kennedy? Stressed, broke, and one minor inconvenience away from spiraling....but still out here trying to build her business like a queen. She’s very “I have a plan” while everything around her is actively falling apart.
Cameron? Certified grump. NHL goalie. Emotionally unavailable… until suddenly he’s not. The man goes from “this is strictly business” to acting like a protective menace real quick. And the second he starts caring? Yeah, it’s over.
Also this book runs on:
Fake dating that is not convincing anyone
Teammates who absolutely know what’s going on
....and an ex who exists purely to make everything worse
The best part is watching them try to pretend this is all “strategic” while:
They’re texting constantly
Getting way too comfortable
....and very obviously catching feelings
Like please. Be so serious.
Is the plot groundbreaking? No.
Do they fold immediately? Yes.
Did I enjoy every second? Also yes.
You’re here for:
Grumpy MMC who softens FAST
FMC just trying to survive life
Fake dating that fools absolutely no one
…and it delivers exactly that.
Read
April 23, 20264.5 stars
This is everything you want from a hockey’s fake dating romance!!
What is it about a grumpy hockey player who needs a fake girlfriend ??? I fall for them everytime. Especially when they’re sweet, and a little wounded, and fall hard for their girl!
Kennedy is a great FMC. She’s confident, even when she’s doubting herself. She’s strong and witty. She doesn’t back down and she isn’t intimidated, even by elegant looking evil ex-girlfriends who are openly plotting her demise. I loved how passionate she is about her baking, about what she wants to do with her life. I love how she just went after it, even if it didn’t seem like the smart or sensible choice.
Cameron is grumpy perfection. I loved the fact that he always felt some sort of attraction to Kennedy but stayed away because he wasn’t ready. Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE a fake dating story. Making a deal with Kennedy to help her with her bakery, if she pretends to be his girlfriend and keep his evil ex at bay …loved it!!
Chemistry! Simple and strong and delicious!
No miscommunication!!!!
No third act breakup, Thank the stars above!!!
I loved how Kennedy ran right to him when the Jersey mishap happened. She knew what he was feeling and hit it straight on.
I LOVED his reaction to her having bought and wore one of his jerseys!!!! And when he beat the guy bloody for even mentioning his girls name 🥰🥰🥰
Simply put, I loved it! Super enjoyable. Sweet tender moments, mixed with spicy tension filled ones.
Undeniably great hockey romance!
This is everything you want from a hockey’s fake dating romance!!
What is it about a grumpy hockey player who needs a fake girlfriend ??? I fall for them everytime. Especially when they’re sweet, and a little wounded, and fall hard for their girl!
Kennedy is a great FMC. She’s confident, even when she’s doubting herself. She’s strong and witty. She doesn’t back down and she isn’t intimidated, even by elegant looking evil ex-girlfriends who are openly plotting her demise. I loved how passionate she is about her baking, about what she wants to do with her life. I love how she just went after it, even if it didn’t seem like the smart or sensible choice.
Cameron is grumpy perfection. I loved the fact that he always felt some sort of attraction to Kennedy but stayed away because he wasn’t ready. Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE a fake dating story. Making a deal with Kennedy to help her with her bakery, if she pretends to be his girlfriend and keep his evil ex at bay …loved it!!
Chemistry! Simple and strong and delicious!
No miscommunication!!!!
No third act breakup, Thank the stars above!!!
I loved how Kennedy ran right to him when the Jersey mishap happened. She knew what he was feeling and hit it straight on.
I LOVED his reaction to her having bought and wore one of his jerseys!!!! And when he beat the guy bloody for even mentioning his girls name 🥰🥰🥰
Simply put, I loved it! Super enjoyable. Sweet tender moments, mixed with spicy tension filled ones.
Undeniably great hockey romance!
April 24, 2026
Oh my god.
I’m completely enamored with this book, I had a blast reading it!!
First of all I want to start saying that Kennedy just became one of my favorite female main characters ever, she’s so relatable and so fun to read, she’s one of the truest and realest characters I’ve read and I had so much fun in her POV’s.
And Cameron… Jesus, hell isn’t as hot as this man is. He’s everything that’s right in a fictional character and how I wish there were men like him irl. He was sweet and hot and confident but vulnerable and I just LOVED how he was written, truly a man written by a woman.
And the two of them were so fun and so addictive to read! They had such a fun dynamic and such a real relationship development. Their chemistry was palpable and their love development was so endearing and wholesome to read!!! I just love when a slow burn is actually a slow burn but they get to know each other and enjoy each other as friends first, Carly seriously nailed it with this couple and this whole book! Seriously, some of the best contemporary romance I’ve read in my life.
I’m so honored to have been chosen to read this wonderful story and characters as an ARC reader!
I’m completely enamored with this book, I had a blast reading it!!
First of all I want to start saying that Kennedy just became one of my favorite female main characters ever, she’s so relatable and so fun to read, she’s one of the truest and realest characters I’ve read and I had so much fun in her POV’s.
And Cameron… Jesus, hell isn’t as hot as this man is. He’s everything that’s right in a fictional character and how I wish there were men like him irl. He was sweet and hot and confident but vulnerable and I just LOVED how he was written, truly a man written by a woman.
And the two of them were so fun and so addictive to read! They had such a fun dynamic and such a real relationship development. Their chemistry was palpable and their love development was so endearing and wholesome to read!!! I just love when a slow burn is actually a slow burn but they get to know each other and enjoy each other as friends first, Carly seriously nailed it with this couple and this whole book! Seriously, some of the best contemporary romance I’ve read in my life.
I’m so honored to have been chosen to read this wonderful story and characters as an ARC reader!
April 19, 2026
Carly. The way you write banter is honestly unmatched. Cameron and Kennedy’s back-and-forth had me hooked all over again, and I was fully invested in every second of it. And somehow—somehow—you also made me even more obsessed with Logan. I’m going to need his book like yesterday, just putting that out there. I’m already impatient to see who’s next.
Kennedy. Baking, Bravo, & Broadway—an elite combination. I may only realistically participate in one of those, but I support the lifestyle wholeheartedly. You’ve got me wanting to plan a New York trip and finally see Death Becomes Her, so thanks for that. Also, your telemarketer strategy? Life-changing. I might never answer a call normally again. And the grudges? Felt that on a spiritual level. Forgive, sure… forget? Never. The cookies, the commentary, the random thoughts—you just get it. Everything about you felt a little too relatable in the best way.
Cameron. My resting murder face / celiac king—you really made the grumpy agenda look appealing. Cold to everyone else but soft where it counts? Yeah… that works. And the fact that you stepped into fake dating and still gave Kennedy everything she wanted? I folded. Metromart hotdog moment was a win, obviously. But it was the way you took care of her that stood out—quiet, attentive, no big speeches, just action. Period care packages? Non-negotiable now. In the end, it’s the quiet love for me. The small things, the consistent actions, the way you proved it instead of saying it. That’s what made you unforgettable.
I really loved this book and would recommend it in a heartbeat. It pulled me in so easily, and the connection between the characters felt natural from the start. I did find myself lingering on certain moments, wishing I could sit in them just a little longer—but honestly, that just speaks to how invested I was. Nothing ever felt forced, and that kind of chemistry is hard to pull off, so credit where it’s due.
Kennedy. Baking, Bravo, & Broadway—an elite combination. I may only realistically participate in one of those, but I support the lifestyle wholeheartedly. You’ve got me wanting to plan a New York trip and finally see Death Becomes Her, so thanks for that. Also, your telemarketer strategy? Life-changing. I might never answer a call normally again. And the grudges? Felt that on a spiritual level. Forgive, sure… forget? Never. The cookies, the commentary, the random thoughts—you just get it. Everything about you felt a little too relatable in the best way.
Cameron. My resting murder face / celiac king—you really made the grumpy agenda look appealing. Cold to everyone else but soft where it counts? Yeah… that works. And the fact that you stepped into fake dating and still gave Kennedy everything she wanted? I folded. Metromart hotdog moment was a win, obviously. But it was the way you took care of her that stood out—quiet, attentive, no big speeches, just action. Period care packages? Non-negotiable now. In the end, it’s the quiet love for me. The small things, the consistent actions, the way you proved it instead of saying it. That’s what made you unforgettable.
I really loved this book and would recommend it in a heartbeat. It pulled me in so easily, and the connection between the characters felt natural from the start. I did find myself lingering on certain moments, wishing I could sit in them just a little longer—but honestly, that just speaks to how invested I was. Nothing ever felt forced, and that kind of chemistry is hard to pull off, so credit where it’s due.
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