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Off the Ice #1
The Hockey Problem
He’s the NHL’s most guarded single dad.
She’s the one woman who can’t afford to fall for him.
Tori Wells didn’t fight her way into the NHL just to become another cautionary tale. As a team physical therapist, she lives by strict rules: heal the players, protect her career, and never—ever—cross the line with a hockey player.
Then she’s assigned to Zayden Bishop.
On the ice, he’s untouchable—a French-Canadian superstar with a reputation for being cold, private, and impossible to read. Off the ice, he’s a devoted single father running on discipline, stubbornness, and too little sleep. Until a serious shoulder injury threatens his season—and the stability he’s built for his six-year-old daughter.
Tori is in charge of his rehab. Full oversight. Daily sessions.
No room for mistakes.
No room for attraction.
Except Zayden isn’t what she expected.
The more time they spend together—early mornings, quiet road trips, late-night conversations—the harder it becomes to pretend this is just professional. Because Zayden doesn’t just need his shoulder fixed. He needs someone who sees the man behind the jersey.
And Tori is dangerously close to becoming that someone.
Crossing the line could cost her everything she’s worked for. And Zayden can’t risk bringing anyone into his daughter’s life unless he’s certain they’ll stay.
Perfect for fans of Meghan Quinn, Elle Kennedy, and Monica Murphy, this slow-burn, single dad, forced-proximity hockey romance brings the heat—and the heart—in all the best ways.
Book one in a brand-new hockey romance series. Each book can be read as a standalone.
She’s the one woman who can’t afford to fall for him.
Tori Wells didn’t fight her way into the NHL just to become another cautionary tale. As a team physical therapist, she lives by strict rules: heal the players, protect her career, and never—ever—cross the line with a hockey player.
Then she’s assigned to Zayden Bishop.
On the ice, he’s untouchable—a French-Canadian superstar with a reputation for being cold, private, and impossible to read. Off the ice, he’s a devoted single father running on discipline, stubbornness, and too little sleep. Until a serious shoulder injury threatens his season—and the stability he’s built for his six-year-old daughter.
Tori is in charge of his rehab. Full oversight. Daily sessions.
No room for mistakes.
No room for attraction.
Except Zayden isn’t what she expected.
The more time they spend together—early mornings, quiet road trips, late-night conversations—the harder it becomes to pretend this is just professional. Because Zayden doesn’t just need his shoulder fixed. He needs someone who sees the man behind the jersey.
And Tori is dangerously close to becoming that someone.
Crossing the line could cost her everything she’s worked for. And Zayden can’t risk bringing anyone into his daughter’s life unless he’s certain they’ll stay.
Perfect for fans of Meghan Quinn, Elle Kennedy, and Monica Murphy, this slow-burn, single dad, forced-proximity hockey romance brings the heat—and the heart—in all the best ways.
Book one in a brand-new hockey romance series. Each book can be read as a standalone.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
About the author
Kendall Ryan
134 books18.5k followersKendall Ryan is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of flirty, feel-good romance filled with heart, heat, and plenty of banter. An American author who has lived all over the world, her books have sold millions of copies and been translated into multiple languages. She writes swoony heroes, bold heroines, and stories that make you laugh, blush, and fall in love. When she’s not dreaming up new plotlines, she is a proud mom to two amazing sons and the wife of her real-life hero.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 2, 2026
Predictable and cosy.
There’s something about predictable romances that I just love and will forever go back to. Nothing groundbreaking, lovely side characters, relatable discussions, just an overall easy read. With a cute/funny kid.
There’s something about predictable romances that I just love and will forever go back to. Nothing groundbreaking, lovely side characters, relatable discussions, just an overall easy read. With a cute/funny kid.
March 21, 2026
4.5 stars! Hockey & a single dad 🙌🏼
-Single dad hockey player MMC
-Physical Therapist FMC
-Dual POV
-Workplace romance
-Slow burn
-He falls first
Tori is a PT, helping rehab the start NHL player, Zayden- who happens to have his hands full being a single dad. She vows to stay away from any athletes romantically, but Zayden continually makes that impossible.
I binged this in one evening - so swoony, fun, had the most amazing little girl, Maisie, and was overall just such a good time.
The writing and flow made it so easy for me to just fly through - I was hooked.
Highly recommend for any romance or a sports romance lovers!
-Single dad hockey player MMC
-Physical Therapist FMC
-Dual POV
-Workplace romance
-Slow burn
-He falls first
Tori is a PT, helping rehab the start NHL player, Zayden- who happens to have his hands full being a single dad. She vows to stay away from any athletes romantically, but Zayden continually makes that impossible.
I binged this in one evening - so swoony, fun, had the most amazing little girl, Maisie, and was overall just such a good time.
The writing and flow made it so easy for me to just fly through - I was hooked.
Highly recommend for any romance or a sports romance lovers!
Read
March 18, 2026- hockey romance
- forbidden workplace romance: she’s the team’s physical therapist
- single dad
- no third-act breakup
- 🌶️/5
- dual pov
I was fortunate enough to read The Hockey Problem as part of a collaboration, so I won’t be doing a full review. But I will say this. It’s a really enjoyable hockey romance that’s definitely worth checking out.
It kicks off with an instant attraction between a single dad hockey player and the team’s physical therapist. From there, it surprisingly settles into a chemistry and tension-filled slow burn as they try very hard not to give in to their feelings. There's only one spicy scene toward the end, which is refreshing for a hockey romance.
And I have to mention the real scene stealer, Maisey. She completely warmed my heart while also breaking it a little—such a sweetheart!
The next book already sounds just as good, so I’d definitely recommend giving this new hockey romance series a go.
- forbidden workplace romance: she’s the team’s physical therapist
- single dad
- no third-act breakup
- 🌶️/5
- dual pov
I was fortunate enough to read The Hockey Problem as part of a collaboration, so I won’t be doing a full review. But I will say this. It’s a really enjoyable hockey romance that’s definitely worth checking out.
It kicks off with an instant attraction between a single dad hockey player and the team’s physical therapist. From there, it surprisingly settles into a chemistry and tension-filled slow burn as they try very hard not to give in to their feelings. There's only one spicy scene toward the end, which is refreshing for a hockey romance.
And I have to mention the real scene stealer, Maisey. She completely warmed my heart while also breaking it a little—such a sweetheart!
The next book already sounds just as good, so I’d definitely recommend giving this new hockey romance series a go.
April 23, 2026
not many thoughts but cute!
June 4, 2026
kadangi audio tai suklausiau, bet labai meh
June 15, 2026
It had potential. I was intrigued in the beginning but it quickly went down the path of too much too fast while simultaneously giving me too little in the plot department.
Some timeline aspects were a bit much also.
This one could have been more fully developed and it would have been better.
Some timeline aspects were a bit much also.
This one could have been more fully developed and it would have been better.
March 31, 2026
Slow Burn, Big Heart
This single-dad sports romance was exactly the kind of slow burn I didn’t know I needed. Tori is fiercely focused on her dream job, determined not to let emotions derail her path. Meanwhile, Zayden’s entire world revolves around his six-year-old daughter, Maisie. When his life starts to unravel, it’s his steady, evolving friendship with Tori that becomes his anchor.
What really stood out was the gradual, authentic relationship building, as it felt natural and deeply earned. And every scene with Maisie? Absolutely heart-melting. The blanket fort moment completely broke me in the best way, and I know it’ll stay with me whenever I think about this book.
I’m already so excited for the rest of the Off the Ice series and can’t wait to see what comes next!
This single-dad sports romance was exactly the kind of slow burn I didn’t know I needed. Tori is fiercely focused on her dream job, determined not to let emotions derail her path. Meanwhile, Zayden’s entire world revolves around his six-year-old daughter, Maisie. When his life starts to unravel, it’s his steady, evolving friendship with Tori that becomes his anchor.
What really stood out was the gradual, authentic relationship building, as it felt natural and deeply earned. And every scene with Maisie? Absolutely heart-melting. The blanket fort moment completely broke me in the best way, and I know it’ll stay with me whenever I think about this book.
I’m already so excited for the rest of the Off the Ice series and can’t wait to see what comes next!
March 26, 2026
Some books don’t need big, dramatic twists to pull you in—they just quietly hook you with chemistry, emotion, and characters you genuinely care about. The Hockey Problem is exactly that kind of read.
Tori and Zayden’s story is built on tension, restraint, and everything left unsaid. From the moment they’re thrown together, you can feel that pull—but what makes it so addictive is how hard they both fight it. The stakes are real, and that line they’re not supposed to cross never fades into the background.
What really worked for me is how grounded everything feels. Tori knows exactly what she stands to lose, and that awareness shapes every interaction, every hesitation, every moment where things could so easily tip into something more. And Zayden, with all his guarded edges, isn’t just dealing with his own walls—he’s a single dad first, always thinking about how any choice might impact his daughter.
That’s where the story really softens in the best way. Maisey brings this warmth that balances out all that tension, and the way Tori gradually becomes part of their world felt so natural and effortless. Nothing feels rushed or forced—it just slowly, quietly falls into place.
The slow burn is done beautifully. It’s in the small things—shared routines, quiet conversations, the kind of moments that don’t seem big on the surface but carry so much weight. You can feel the shift happening between them long before anything is said out loud, and that makes it all the more satisfying.
And when Zayden shows up for Tori, especially when it matters most, it just hits. No hesitation, no overthinking—just someone who knows exactly what’s important.
Overall, this is a soft, emotional, and quietly addictive romance that leans into connection, trust, and letting your guard down when it matters most. If you love a swoony single dad, a strong heroine, and a slow burn that keeps you invested from start to finish, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Happy reading!
Would I recommend this book: Yes
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later
Would I read future books by this author: Yes
e-ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Tori and Zayden’s story is built on tension, restraint, and everything left unsaid. From the moment they’re thrown together, you can feel that pull—but what makes it so addictive is how hard they both fight it. The stakes are real, and that line they’re not supposed to cross never fades into the background.
What really worked for me is how grounded everything feels. Tori knows exactly what she stands to lose, and that awareness shapes every interaction, every hesitation, every moment where things could so easily tip into something more. And Zayden, with all his guarded edges, isn’t just dealing with his own walls—he’s a single dad first, always thinking about how any choice might impact his daughter.
That’s where the story really softens in the best way. Maisey brings this warmth that balances out all that tension, and the way Tori gradually becomes part of their world felt so natural and effortless. Nothing feels rushed or forced—it just slowly, quietly falls into place.
The slow burn is done beautifully. It’s in the small things—shared routines, quiet conversations, the kind of moments that don’t seem big on the surface but carry so much weight. You can feel the shift happening between them long before anything is said out loud, and that makes it all the more satisfying.
And when Zayden shows up for Tori, especially when it matters most, it just hits. No hesitation, no overthinking—just someone who knows exactly what’s important.
Overall, this is a soft, emotional, and quietly addictive romance that leans into connection, trust, and letting your guard down when it matters most. If you love a swoony single dad, a strong heroine, and a slow burn that keeps you invested from start to finish, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Happy reading!
Would I recommend this book: Yes
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later
Would I read future books by this author: Yes
e-ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2026
The Hockey Problem by Kendall Ryan will grab your attention from the first page with its slow-burn romance, witty banter, and heartfelt moments that linger long after the final chapter.
The story begins with a strictly professional relationship between Tori Wells, a dedicated physical therapist, and Zayden Bishop, a talented NHL player recovering from a shoulder injury. But like a puck sliding across fresh ice, their connection steadily gains momentum every time they’re together. Tori has one firm rule: never fall for a hockey player. Zayden, a single dad with trust issues, has walls built just as high. The question becomes whether either of them is willing to risk everything for something real.
Kendall Ryan truly shines in this story, crafting a romance that feels both natural and emotionally engaging. The chemistry between Tori and Zayden builds at just the right pace, making their journey all the more satisfying. What makes this book especially memorable is the bond that develops not only between the main characters but also with Zayden’s daughter, Maisie. Their dynamic adds warmth and depth, giving the story an extra layer of heart.
Overall, The Hockey Problem is a charming, feel-good romance that blends emotional vulnerability with playful dialogue. If you enjoy slow-burn relationships, strong character connections, and a touch of family-centered sweetness, this book is definitely worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story begins with a strictly professional relationship between Tori Wells, a dedicated physical therapist, and Zayden Bishop, a talented NHL player recovering from a shoulder injury. But like a puck sliding across fresh ice, their connection steadily gains momentum every time they’re together. Tori has one firm rule: never fall for a hockey player. Zayden, a single dad with trust issues, has walls built just as high. The question becomes whether either of them is willing to risk everything for something real.
Kendall Ryan truly shines in this story, crafting a romance that feels both natural and emotionally engaging. The chemistry between Tori and Zayden builds at just the right pace, making their journey all the more satisfying. What makes this book especially memorable is the bond that develops not only between the main characters but also with Zayden’s daughter, Maisie. Their dynamic adds warmth and depth, giving the story an extra layer of heart.
Overall, The Hockey Problem is a charming, feel-good romance that blends emotional vulnerability with playful dialogue. If you enjoy slow-burn relationships, strong character connections, and a touch of family-centered sweetness, this book is definitely worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2026
2.75
Fun tropes, I reaffirm that I love hockey romances
Writing style was a bit too 2010 wattpad level for me to warrant a higher rating
Fun tropes, I reaffirm that I love hockey romances
Writing style was a bit too 2010 wattpad level for me to warrant a higher rating
April 8, 2026
such a swoonfest <3
Did Not Finish
April 27, 2026i really hoped i had found a new hockey series.
okk so she never get into anything with her patients but she sees him once and already she has to constantly tell herself not to go there ...
after chapter 5 or sth he is falling for her ...
boring.
okk so she never get into anything with her patients but she sees him once and already she has to constantly tell herself not to go there ...
after chapter 5 or sth he is falling for her ...
boring.
Review of advance copy
i couldn't stop reading this book. the chemistry between the characters was so strong. i had to know what happened next, i wasn't disappointed at all.
April 1, 2026
3.25 stars
This started really well. Tori and Zayden were extremely likable and had great chemistry together. Their interactions were filled with tension that was very well written and it carried this book for quite a while. But then it all went stagnant and got old.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS
The main conflict between them (that she’s his PT) was resolved very easily with little drama. They finally go on a date and sleep together at 86%. It was just kind of anticlimactic for me. I just went from really liking this in the beginning to forcing myself to finish.
This started really well. Tori and Zayden were extremely likable and had great chemistry together. Their interactions were filled with tension that was very well written and it carried this book for quite a while. But then it all went stagnant and got old.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS
The main conflict between them (that she’s his PT) was resolved very easily with little drama. They finally go on a date and sleep together at 86%. It was just kind of anticlimactic for me. I just went from really liking this in the beginning to forcing myself to finish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2026
He’s the NHL’s most guarded single dad.
She’s the one woman who can’t afford to fall for him.
Tori Wells didn’t fight her way into the NHL just to become another cautionary tale. As a team physical therapist, she lives by strict rules: heal the players, protect her career, and never—ever cross the line with a hockey player.
Then she’s assigned to Zayden Bishop.
On the ice, he’s untouchable—a French-Canadian superstar with a reputation for being cold, private, and impossible to read. Off the ice, he’s a devoted single father running on discipline, stubbornness, and too little sleep. Until a serious shoulder injury threatens his season—and the stability he’s built for his six-year-old daughter.
Tori is in charge of his rehab. Full oversight. Daily sessions.
No room for mistakes.
No room for attraction.
Except Zayden isn’t what she expected.
The more time they spend together—early mornings, quiet road trips, late-night conversations—the harder it becomes to pretend this is just professional. Because Zayden doesn’t just need his shoulder fixed. He needs someone who sees the man behind the jersey.
And Tori is dangerously close to becoming that someone.
Crossing the line could cost her everything she’s worked for. And Zayden can’t risk bringing anyone into his daughter’s life unless he’s certain they’ll stay.
This contemporary slow-burn single dad, forced proximity hockey romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is on fire, and characters who are an alpha hockey player hero/female heroine, who are resilient, captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the hockey problem, mature, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, humor, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the hockey problem and an explicit contemporary slow-burn single dad, forced proximity hockey romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly lustful, intriguing, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She’s the one woman who can’t afford to fall for him.
Tori Wells didn’t fight her way into the NHL just to become another cautionary tale. As a team physical therapist, she lives by strict rules: heal the players, protect her career, and never—ever cross the line with a hockey player.
Then she’s assigned to Zayden Bishop.
On the ice, he’s untouchable—a French-Canadian superstar with a reputation for being cold, private, and impossible to read. Off the ice, he’s a devoted single father running on discipline, stubbornness, and too little sleep. Until a serious shoulder injury threatens his season—and the stability he’s built for his six-year-old daughter.
Tori is in charge of his rehab. Full oversight. Daily sessions.
No room for mistakes.
No room for attraction.
Except Zayden isn’t what she expected.
The more time they spend together—early mornings, quiet road trips, late-night conversations—the harder it becomes to pretend this is just professional. Because Zayden doesn’t just need his shoulder fixed. He needs someone who sees the man behind the jersey.
And Tori is dangerously close to becoming that someone.
Crossing the line could cost her everything she’s worked for. And Zayden can’t risk bringing anyone into his daughter’s life unless he’s certain they’ll stay.
This contemporary slow-burn single dad, forced proximity hockey romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is on fire, and characters who are an alpha hockey player hero/female heroine, who are resilient, captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the hockey problem, mature, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, humor, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the hockey problem and an explicit contemporary slow-burn single dad, forced proximity hockey romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly lustful, intriguing, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2026
oh so good
Man oh man did I absolutely love this book. The chemistry was real the heat was subdued and perfect for this book. I love when a book focuses more on the emotions in it than the heat. I loved the little girl, the storyline and everything in between. A great read. Can’t wait for book 2.
Man oh man did I absolutely love this book. The chemistry was real the heat was subdued and perfect for this book. I love when a book focuses more on the emotions in it than the heat. I loved the little girl, the storyline and everything in between. A great read. Can’t wait for book 2.
June 2, 2026
I had a great time, god the middle bit where tori just couldn’t stop saying shit about her rules, but after literally when they gave in was amazing I really enjoyed it, I was in a slump and this took me out of it
March 28, 2026
This was cute and sweet. I wish that we would have got to see the MMC with his daughter more and honestly the FMC with her more to. I also would have liked some drama from the baby mama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2026
Absolutely loved this book. Great writing!
April 2, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Cute, quick read, looking forward to the next in the series!
Cute, quick read, looking forward to the next in the series!
April 9, 2026
This was so cute, a perfect light read.
June 6, 2026
4🌟
I think it’s dumb that there are stupid rules about fraternization between players and other staff. You can’t help who you fall in love with.
I think it’s dumb that there are stupid rules about fraternization between players and other staff. You can’t help who you fall in love with.
May 14, 2026
Super cute!! Was a really easy read, and I liked both Tori and Zayden. There communication was chef’s kiss, so glad there was no third act breakup like there usually is in these circumstances. The scenes with Maisie were also cute, will be tuning in for the sequel when it’s released
May 16, 2026
There’s a slow burn and then there’s a no burn - this was it!
It had a potential and I love a good ice hockey romance book and with world championships in full swing I was so looking forward to it.
If you need to kill a couple of hours - it’ll do the job but otherwise - it’s plain, boring, tasteless.
I didn’t feel the tension, there was no drama, no build up, nada…
Will I be reading the rest of the series? Unfortunately not…
It had a potential and I love a good ice hockey romance book and with world championships in full swing I was so looking forward to it.
If you need to kill a couple of hours - it’ll do the job but otherwise - it’s plain, boring, tasteless.
I didn’t feel the tension, there was no drama, no build up, nada…
Will I be reading the rest of the series? Unfortunately not…
May 8, 2026
It had the generic hockey plot that I was in the mood for (hockey player + team employee) but the timeline was off. Felt like things moved very quickly but we never saw the characters truly get to know one another. And the epilogue was ridiculous. It would be completely fine if it said "one year later" instead of one month because it is unbelievable that Tori opened her own clinic within a month of the idea and he proposed that quickly. Was fine for the type of book I wanted but not great overall
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2026
DNF. From the jump this book does a lot of telling and not showing. Their introductory convo was brief, awkward, and FMC was dismissive and rude. Then in her inner monologue she’s fawning over him, saying he was quiet, observant, and self deprecating. It was very “he’s not like other boys”. And it was just such a stark difference from the actual conversation. Very disjointed.
Then there’s baby mama drama. Mom sees the kid once or twice a year when it’s convenient for her to get some instagram content. Ok. So the kid knows who her mother is, at least to some extent, she knows a mother exists. So why the family tree ordeal? They act like the mother abandoned them never to be seen again. Except.. she is seen again. Once or twice a year. It’s not great, but I can assume the kid knows that the lady who shows up sometimes is not a stranger? Again, disjointed, conflicting info.
In another review I learned that they don’t go on a date and hook up til 86% of the way in. I was exhausted after 6 chapters.
Then there’s baby mama drama. Mom sees the kid once or twice a year when it’s convenient for her to get some instagram content. Ok. So the kid knows who her mother is, at least to some extent, she knows a mother exists. So why the family tree ordeal? They act like the mother abandoned them never to be seen again. Except.. she is seen again. Once or twice a year. It’s not great, but I can assume the kid knows that the lady who shows up sometimes is not a stranger? Again, disjointed, conflicting info.
In another review I learned that they don’t go on a date and hook up til 86% of the way in. I was exhausted after 6 chapters.
April 8, 2026
Utter drivel. There is literally nothing that happens and next to no conflict. What extremely tiny amount of conflict is resolved in an unsatisfying way. Also, this is not a slow burn. It’s a no burn. 90% (facts) of the way through the book there is one PG sex scene. Also, the precocious 6 year old with the wisdom of an 80 year old school teacher is really freaking annoying.
April 6, 2026
Sometimes a book arrives at the exact right moment, and The Hockey Problem was exactly that for me — absolutely cute, perfectly emotional, and just the right amount of swoony.
This hockey romance has everything I love: a feisty, principled heroine, a broody, quietly tender single dad, a six‑year‑old super sweet scene‑stealer (a,k.a. Maisie), and that delicious “we really shouldn’t… but oh no, we’re already falling” tension!
Tori is the kind of heroine I root for immediately. She’s smart, disciplined, and determined to protect her hard‑earned reputation in a field where women are scrutinized twice as hard. She has seen colleagues lose their reputation by getting involved with a player, so she’s determined to never date a player. And yet… enter Zayden.
A French‑Canadian hockey player and single dad who is doing his absolute best while running on emotional fumes. He’s not the typical cocky sports hero — he’s thoughtful, serious, and deeply devoted to his daughter. Many times in the story, we see him exhausted, not only physically but mentally. That vulnerability? Irresistible.
From the moment Tori is assigned to treat his shoulder, the spark is instant. Their therapy sessions become this slow, careful dance — both of them trying to stay professional while failing spectacularly. He looks at her like she’s the first person who’s really seen him in years, and she tries so hard to remember her mantra: no players. But their chats flow so easily, there’s instant trust.
Maisie is pure sunshine, she likes Tori immediately. Their bond grows naturally and tenderly through accidental babysitting moments, giggles, trust. Maisie blossoms under Tori’s attentions and it makes Zayden sigh in happiness. Watching this little found family form was one of my favorite parts.
There’s a sleazy teammate who crosses boundaries and retaliates when rejected — a storyline handled with care and realism. Zayden stepping up for Tori, taking responsibility, and advocating for her? That’s the kind of heroism I love: quiet, steady, and rooted in respect.
There are side characters that shine: Banks and Winnie. I’m already invested! I was thinking as I read that they would make a perfect couple, and to my delight, they are next book’s couple! Win!
This story is soft in all the right ways — a gentle romance built on trust, friendship, and the slow realization that sometimes the person you’re not supposed to fall for is exactly the one who feels like home. It’s found family, healing, and a man who finally gets to exhale because he’s found someone who stays. Same for Maisie!
I loved this story. Five stars, easily.
This hockey romance has everything I love: a feisty, principled heroine, a broody, quietly tender single dad, a six‑year‑old super sweet scene‑stealer (a,k.a. Maisie), and that delicious “we really shouldn’t… but oh no, we’re already falling” tension!
Tori is the kind of heroine I root for immediately. She’s smart, disciplined, and determined to protect her hard‑earned reputation in a field where women are scrutinized twice as hard. She has seen colleagues lose their reputation by getting involved with a player, so she’s determined to never date a player. And yet… enter Zayden.
A French‑Canadian hockey player and single dad who is doing his absolute best while running on emotional fumes. He’s not the typical cocky sports hero — he’s thoughtful, serious, and deeply devoted to his daughter. Many times in the story, we see him exhausted, not only physically but mentally. That vulnerability? Irresistible.
From the moment Tori is assigned to treat his shoulder, the spark is instant. Their therapy sessions become this slow, careful dance — both of them trying to stay professional while failing spectacularly. He looks at her like she’s the first person who’s really seen him in years, and she tries so hard to remember her mantra: no players. But their chats flow so easily, there’s instant trust.
Maisie is pure sunshine, she likes Tori immediately. Their bond grows naturally and tenderly through accidental babysitting moments, giggles, trust. Maisie blossoms under Tori’s attentions and it makes Zayden sigh in happiness. Watching this little found family form was one of my favorite parts.
There’s a sleazy teammate who crosses boundaries and retaliates when rejected — a storyline handled with care and realism. Zayden stepping up for Tori, taking responsibility, and advocating for her? That’s the kind of heroism I love: quiet, steady, and rooted in respect.
There are side characters that shine: Banks and Winnie. I’m already invested! I was thinking as I read that they would make a perfect couple, and to my delight, they are next book’s couple! Win!
This story is soft in all the right ways — a gentle romance built on trust, friendship, and the slow realization that sometimes the person you’re not supposed to fall for is exactly the one who feels like home. It’s found family, healing, and a man who finally gets to exhale because he’s found someone who stays. Same for Maisie!
I loved this story. Five stars, easily.
Review of advance copy
## 🏒💙 *The Hockey Problem* by Kendall Ryan
**⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Sweet, low-drama hockey romance**
Sometimes you just want a romance that **doesn’t rely on ridiculous misunderstandings or a dramatic third-act breakup**, and *The Hockey Problem* delivered exactly that. This book felt like a **breath of fresh air** — two people meet, face a few obstacles, and actually communicate like adults. Imagine that. 😊
**Zayden** is the classic grumpy hockey player… but he also happens to be a **single dad**, which instantly softens his edges. He’s recovering from a shoulder injury and enters physical therapy with **Tori**, the team’s PT. Tori refuses to put up with his attitude and makes it very clear that if he wants to heal, he’s going to have to actually do the work.
Their dynamic is so fun because **she doesn’t let him get away with anything**, and you can slowly see Zayden opening up as the story progresses.
One thing I really appreciated was how the author addressed the **real challenges women face working in professional sports**. Tori previously dated a star quarterback who ended up throwing her under the bus, damaging her professional reputation. Because of that experience, she’s extremely careful about keeping her personal and professional life separate.
And then we have **Maize**… Zayden’s six-year-old daughter who completely **steals the show**. 🥹💕 She immediately bonds with Tori, and their relationship adds so much warmth and sweetness to the story. Watching Tori naturally step into their little family dynamic was adorable.
The only real drama comes from another player who can’t handle rejection when Tori turns him down. He starts showing up with fake injuries and spreading rumors about her and Zayden. Thankfully, Zayden **immediately steps up to defend her professionalism**, which I absolutely loved. No unnecessary angst — just a supportive MMC doing the right thing.
The story wraps up with a **sweet and satisfying HEA**, and I loved that Tori also grows professionally and starts branching out in her career.
If you’re looking for a **sweet hockey romance with a grumpy single dad, an adorable kid, and mature communication**, this one is definitely worth picking up.
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### 🏒 Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
👨👧 Single Dad
😠 Grumpy MMC
🏥 Workplace Romance
💞 Found Family vibes
✨ Low Angst
🌟 HEA
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⭐ **Spice Level:** 🌶️🌶️ (light/moderate) – more sweet than spicy
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