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Off the Ice #2
Ice Cold Chemistry
She’s the distraction the team can’t afford.
He’s the solution no one saw coming.
Winnie Garrett is done with men. After a toxic relationship, she’s focused on one her dream job as the New York Knights’ new yoga instructor.
Banks Callahan doesn’t do relationships. Or feelings. Or anything that requires letting people get close. Growing up in the foster system taught him not to need anyone—and definitely not to want something he could lose.
So when the team’s new yoga instructor becomes an unexpected locker-room distraction threatening their playoff focus, Banks comes up with a solution so ridiculous it just might work.
Fake dating.
If the guys think Winnie is his, they'll back off. It's simple locker room you don't touch what's claimed—like calling dibs on the last slice of pizza.
The problem?
Nothing about Winnie is simple.
She’s warmth and laughter and everything Banks has spent years convincing himself he doesn’t need. She makes him want things he can't have. Makes him feel things he doesn't understand.
He was never supposed to fall for her.
But somewhere between fake hand-holding, pretend nicknames, and very real late-night moments, the line between “just for show” and “dangerously real” starts to blur.
Ice Cold Chemistry is a slow-burn hockey romance featuring fake dating, a grumpy hero, a sunshine heroine, and the relationship neither of them planned—but both might need.
He’s the solution no one saw coming.
Winnie Garrett is done with men. After a toxic relationship, she’s focused on one her dream job as the New York Knights’ new yoga instructor.
Banks Callahan doesn’t do relationships. Or feelings. Or anything that requires letting people get close. Growing up in the foster system taught him not to need anyone—and definitely not to want something he could lose.
So when the team’s new yoga instructor becomes an unexpected locker-room distraction threatening their playoff focus, Banks comes up with a solution so ridiculous it just might work.
Fake dating.
If the guys think Winnie is his, they'll back off. It's simple locker room you don't touch what's claimed—like calling dibs on the last slice of pizza.
The problem?
Nothing about Winnie is simple.
She’s warmth and laughter and everything Banks has spent years convincing himself he doesn’t need. She makes him want things he can't have. Makes him feel things he doesn't understand.
He was never supposed to fall for her.
But somewhere between fake hand-holding, pretend nicknames, and very real late-night moments, the line between “just for show” and “dangerously real” starts to blur.
Ice Cold Chemistry is a slow-burn hockey romance featuring fake dating, a grumpy hero, a sunshine heroine, and the relationship neither of them planned—but both might need.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2026
About the author
Kendall Ryan
159 books18.7k 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 366 reviews
July 12, 2026
I really didn’t enjoy this book. I loved the premise, but it just didn’t come together for me. First of all, the cover is AI generated. Honestly, the text felt AI-generated too at times. It was bland and often word for word repetitive. The character back stories were barely fleshed out. They fall for each other far too easily. The conflict feels like it comes out of nowhere. This one is a miss for me.
July 21, 2026
Dnf the mothfucker is always STARVING he had more chemistry with food then with Winnie the pooh
September 15, 2026
Not the best book ever…it feels like it was AI. I don’t know how to explain it. Also I NEED to know why all the male characters in this book forgot how to use PRONOUNS!!!
Read
March 30, 2026“My grumpy giant is all grown up.” “I will drown you in this foot bath.” “Worth it.”
I like it, but I still have criticisms.
Tori told Winnie to come over at 7. When she arrived, Zayden told his daughter Maise, six, that her bedtime was 15 minutes before. I have never heard of a 6:45 bedtime, no matter what age.
The author needs to curb the subject of Banks's appetite. Enough Already. I am only on chapter eight and am sick of reading about how he is always hungry and always eating.
In chapter 14, Winnie calls Banks after his game. In chapter 15, Winnie tells Tori that he called her after the game the night before.
Actual: Maisie is standing in the doorway, dressed in dinosaur pajamas despite it being nearly five o’clock.
Suggested: Maisie is standing in the doorway, dressed in dinosaur pajamas despite it being only five o’clock.
Actual: “I’m going to tell Daddy you look like princesses too.”
Suggested: “Tori, I’m going to tell Daddy you look like a princess.”
Masie only told Winnie that she looked like a princess, therefore what she tells her dad should be singular; however, since Tori is his fiancé, the compliment should be about her appearance, not Winnie's.
In chapter 24, Banks's alarm goes off at 6:47. Who sets an alarm for this time? 6:45, 6:50, but a time not rounded to the nearest five minutes is unlikely.
In chapters 24 and 25 (and probably earlier too) it says that Banks has played for six teams and been traded twice. This does not make sense. I highly doubt he has gone back and forth between two teams three times. I also highly doubt this includes kiddie hockey and junior leagues.
I carefully don’t look at Grayson, who has the decency to look ashamed. - If you don't look at him, how do you know he looks ashamed?
Winnie has her feet up on the dashboard... - I would never put my feet on the dash nor allow someone do so in my car. One wrong move, and she has two broken legs.
Archer shows up at nine-fifteen with a diaper bag the size of a carry-on... - Of course it is. A diaper bag is a carry-on.
I like it, but I still have criticisms.
Tori told Winnie to come over at 7. When she arrived, Zayden told his daughter Maise, six, that her bedtime was 15 minutes before. I have never heard of a 6:45 bedtime, no matter what age.
The author needs to curb the subject of Banks's appetite. Enough Already. I am only on chapter eight and am sick of reading about how he is always hungry and always eating.
In chapter 14, Winnie calls Banks after his game. In chapter 15, Winnie tells Tori that he called her after the game the night before.
Actual: Maisie is standing in the doorway, dressed in dinosaur pajamas despite it being nearly five o’clock.
Suggested: Maisie is standing in the doorway, dressed in dinosaur pajamas despite it being only five o’clock.
Actual: “I’m going to tell Daddy you look like princesses too.”
Suggested: “Tori, I’m going to tell Daddy you look like a princess.”
Masie only told Winnie that she looked like a princess, therefore what she tells her dad should be singular; however, since Tori is his fiancé, the compliment should be about her appearance, not Winnie's.
In chapter 24, Banks's alarm goes off at 6:47. Who sets an alarm for this time? 6:45, 6:50, but a time not rounded to the nearest five minutes is unlikely.
In chapters 24 and 25 (and probably earlier too) it says that Banks has played for six teams and been traded twice. This does not make sense. I highly doubt he has gone back and forth between two teams three times. I also highly doubt this includes kiddie hockey and junior leagues.
I carefully don’t look at Grayson, who has the decency to look ashamed. - If you don't look at him, how do you know he looks ashamed?
Winnie has her feet up on the dashboard... - I would never put my feet on the dash nor allow someone do so in my car. One wrong move, and she has two broken legs.
Archer shows up at nine-fifteen with a diaper bag the size of a carry-on... - Of course it is. A diaper bag is a carry-on.
June 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Book 2 in the Off the Ice Series
🏒 Hockey Romance
🗣️ Dual POV
🖤 M/F
This book was such an easy binge. Kendall Ryan just knows how to write hockey romances that are fun, low on unnecessary drama, and full of chemistry.
The fake dating trope was done SO well because these two were clearly fooling everyone except themselves 😂 Banks and Winnie had such an effortless connection, and I loved that their relationship developed naturally instead of feeling rushed. The banter was cute, the tension was there from the start, and I found myself smiling through so many of their scenes together.
Banks definitely gives off the classic grumpy hockey player vibe, but underneath all those walls he's incredibly caring. Winnie was the perfect balance to him. She was confident, kind, and didn't let anyone walk all over her, which made it impossible not to root for her. They brought out the best in each other without trying to change who they were.
I also loved that this book didn't rely on over-the-top miscommunication or endless angst which immediately puts me in a bad mood and turns me off a book. It was just a genuinely fun romance with enough emotional moments to make you invested while keeping the story moving.
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance
💙 Fake Dating
🏒 Grumpy x Sunshine
💙 Yoga Instructor FMC
🏒 Protective MMC
💙 He Falls First
🏒 Banter
💙 Workplace Romance
🏒 Slow Burn
💙 Found Family/Team Dynamics
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Book 2 in the Off the Ice Series
🏒 Hockey Romance
🗣️ Dual POV
🖤 M/F
This book was such an easy binge. Kendall Ryan just knows how to write hockey romances that are fun, low on unnecessary drama, and full of chemistry.
The fake dating trope was done SO well because these two were clearly fooling everyone except themselves 😂 Banks and Winnie had such an effortless connection, and I loved that their relationship developed naturally instead of feeling rushed. The banter was cute, the tension was there from the start, and I found myself smiling through so many of their scenes together.
Banks definitely gives off the classic grumpy hockey player vibe, but underneath all those walls he's incredibly caring. Winnie was the perfect balance to him. She was confident, kind, and didn't let anyone walk all over her, which made it impossible not to root for her. They brought out the best in each other without trying to change who they were.
I also loved that this book didn't rely on over-the-top miscommunication or endless angst which immediately puts me in a bad mood and turns me off a book. It was just a genuinely fun romance with enough emotional moments to make you invested while keeping the story moving.
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance
💙 Fake Dating
🏒 Grumpy x Sunshine
💙 Yoga Instructor FMC
🏒 Protective MMC
💙 He Falls First
🏒 Banter
💙 Workplace Romance
🏒 Slow Burn
💙 Found Family/Team Dynamics
July 19, 2026
I have already forgotten everything about this book. But summer requires zero brain energy when reading.
July 9, 2026
This one was fairly predictable, but still fun to read. I did like how Banks made the choice to help Winnie when he saw what was happening. But I do wish instead of the whole fake dating, he would have called out all the guys in front of the coach, HR and other big wigs of the team. Sure we wouldn't have had a fun story for the book, but by "hiding" what they were doing, it doesn't fix the problem. With that being said, I did like how things ended for the couple, glad to see they worked things out and are living their lives happy.
June 30, 2026
Ice Cold Chemistry by Kendall Ryan is a fun, steamy contemporary romance that leans into chemistry — both literal and romantic — with a fast pace and plenty of sparks. Ryan sets up a compelling opposites-attract premise (often icy, closed-off lead vs. warmer, more open counterpart) and mines it for humor, heat, and emotional beats. The flirtation is bold and the romance moves quickly, which makes this a satisfying, addictive read for fans who favor sexy banter and obvious chemistry.
The characters are appealing and relatable even when they fall into familiar archetypes. Ryan gives her leads believable vulnerabilities, and their growth is earned through a mix of candid conversations and small, meaningful gestures. Dialogue crackles in the right moments, and the book’s lighter scenes—witty exchanges, awkward intimacy, and moments of domestic tenderness—offset the steamier chapters nicely. Secondary characters add welcome levity and grounding without stealing focus.
Pacing is brisk, which keeps momentum high but occasionally shortcuts deeper exploration of some side conflicts. A few trope-driven conveniences show up (timing that bends to the plot, predictable obstacles), yet they don’t significantly diminish the fun. The ending ties up the main emotional beats satisfyingly, offering a feel-good resolution that feels earned by the characters’ growth.
Overall, Ice Cold Chemistry is a solid four-star read for readers who want a sexy, fast-moving romance with genuine heart. Kendall Ryan delivers an entertaining blend of heat, humor, and emotional payoff that’s easy to devour.
The characters are appealing and relatable even when they fall into familiar archetypes. Ryan gives her leads believable vulnerabilities, and their growth is earned through a mix of candid conversations and small, meaningful gestures. Dialogue crackles in the right moments, and the book’s lighter scenes—witty exchanges, awkward intimacy, and moments of domestic tenderness—offset the steamier chapters nicely. Secondary characters add welcome levity and grounding without stealing focus.
Pacing is brisk, which keeps momentum high but occasionally shortcuts deeper exploration of some side conflicts. A few trope-driven conveniences show up (timing that bends to the plot, predictable obstacles), yet they don’t significantly diminish the fun. The ending ties up the main emotional beats satisfyingly, offering a feel-good resolution that feels earned by the characters’ growth.
Overall, Ice Cold Chemistry is a solid four-star read for readers who want a sexy, fast-moving romance with genuine heart. Kendall Ryan delivers an entertaining blend of heat, humor, and emotional payoff that’s easy to devour.
October 15, 2026
this was another fun, easy read that was predictable in all the right ways. i liked that the fake dating idea came from their friends, but banks was the one who ultimately chose to make it happen. while i've seen reviews claiming the writing felt ai generated, i didn't get that impression. i could also just be bad at spotting it. what stood out to me most was banks as a character. having grown up in foster care myself, i related to some of his insecurities and his belief that he was difficult to love, even though my experiences were not as extreme as his. that emotional connection made the story more meaningful for me, and i was satisfied with how everything wrapped up in the end.
Review of advance copy
Winnie is new to her job and having some issues with the guys not taking her seriously. When she meets up with her friend Tory to discuss plans, that's when the plot begins, and I was so there for it. Fake boyfriend, grumpy/sunshine, it’s all fun.
And Banks, gosh, his background story made me feel all sorts of sorry for him. He’s such a good character.
It pulls at the heartstrings, makes you swoon, and is overall filled with easy stolen moments you won’t want back.
I absolutely loved it. Loved the characters, the plot, and there was no putting it down.
And Banks, gosh, his background story made me feel all sorts of sorry for him. He’s such a good character.
It pulls at the heartstrings, makes you swoon, and is overall filled with easy stolen moments you won’t want back.
I absolutely loved it. Loved the characters, the plot, and there was no putting it down.
October 30, 2026
Enjoyed this series, though I never thought I'd like hockey romance! Fun premise, nice chemistry with the main characters. I think the books needed an editor to help with continuity, but otherwise, these were a solid comfort read for me.
July 8, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such a fun, easy read! The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, and I loved the mix of humor, tension, and romance. It wasn’t quite a 5-star read for me because I wanted a little more emotional depth, but overall it was an entertaining, feel-good romance that kept me hooked
This was such a fun, easy read! The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, and I loved the mix of humor, tension, and romance. It wasn’t quite a 5-star read for me because I wanted a little more emotional depth, but overall it was an entertaining, feel-good romance that kept me hooked
August 15, 2026
3.5
I liked the first three quarters a lot, then I lost a bit of interest. This was better edited than the previous one, at least the first 75% of it. I liked the main characters, the book reads fast and all, but I wished there was more commentary about the harassment. It was very relevant and the beginning and then it was like nothing happened.
I liked the first three quarters a lot, then I lost a bit of interest. This was better edited than the previous one, at least the first 75% of it. I liked the main characters, the book reads fast and all, but I wished there was more commentary about the harassment. It was very relevant and the beginning and then it was like nothing happened.
August 30, 2026
Easy read but meh
August 6, 2026
the reviews for this novel are so harsh… i actually really enjoyed it. it was such an easy read, and i’m always a sucker for a good grumpy-sunshine trope. it moved pretty quickly, but that’s an aspect i enjoy in sports books. so glad banks got his happy ending!
July 21, 2026
I didn’t get past chapter one; I wasn’t intrigued enough to continue reading this book. Winnie can't handle her new job; she's hiding in a closet trying not to cry.
August 11, 2026
This book was PRECIOUS 🥹
July 21, 2026
#Review: *Ice Cold Chemistry* - Kendall Ryan - ARC [18+]
4.8/5✨
2/5🌶️
Winnie Garrett has started her new job as a yoga instructor at New York Knights hockey team, after she left her old life behind. That also included a toxic relationship. What she haven't expected at her new workplace was to be constantly picked by the players, who only saw her as a conquest and a beautiful body. The idea of fake dating Banks Callahan, a brooding hockey player who was feared by his teammates, wasn't that bad. This way Winnie might stay safe from the other hockey players, but can her heart be safe in front of the man who was protecting her now?
I just love a great fake dating story! This grumpy x sunshine couple has captivated me, loving to see how those lines slowly started to get blurred🤭. I was super curious about Banks, wanting to know more about his past and why he was so withdrawn. That made me a little sad when I got to know his reasons, but in balance came the present, where Winnie offered the complete opposite things and I truly liked that. Banks has conquered my heart because he might have been a hunk of a guy but inside he craved love and to be cared for. That's why I simply adoored the connection between him and Winnie, and how both of them found something they needed in one another.💕 Super, super CUTE!🥰
I had an amazing time reading this book and falling in love with this couple. It was so sweet and I loved how that slow burn has constantly tortured me, being present so, so much chemistry between our characters. I'm so excited for the next book from this series! I cannot wait to dive into that one really soon😍.
Thank youu so, so much Kendall for accepting me to be part of your ARC team. I enjoyed this books so much!💕
✨Tropes
▫️Fake Dating
▫️Grumpy/Sunshine
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Brooding MMC
▫️Slow Burn
▫️He Falls First
▫️Touch Starved
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
▫️Yoga Instructor
4.8/5✨
2/5🌶️
Winnie Garrett has started her new job as a yoga instructor at New York Knights hockey team, after she left her old life behind. That also included a toxic relationship. What she haven't expected at her new workplace was to be constantly picked by the players, who only saw her as a conquest and a beautiful body. The idea of fake dating Banks Callahan, a brooding hockey player who was feared by his teammates, wasn't that bad. This way Winnie might stay safe from the other hockey players, but can her heart be safe in front of the man who was protecting her now?
I just love a great fake dating story! This grumpy x sunshine couple has captivated me, loving to see how those lines slowly started to get blurred🤭. I was super curious about Banks, wanting to know more about his past and why he was so withdrawn. That made me a little sad when I got to know his reasons, but in balance came the present, where Winnie offered the complete opposite things and I truly liked that. Banks has conquered my heart because he might have been a hunk of a guy but inside he craved love and to be cared for. That's why I simply adoored the connection between him and Winnie, and how both of them found something they needed in one another.💕 Super, super CUTE!🥰
I had an amazing time reading this book and falling in love with this couple. It was so sweet and I loved how that slow burn has constantly tortured me, being present so, so much chemistry between our characters. I'm so excited for the next book from this series! I cannot wait to dive into that one really soon😍.
Thank youu so, so much Kendall for accepting me to be part of your ARC team. I enjoyed this books so much!💕
✨Tropes
▫️Fake Dating
▫️Grumpy/Sunshine
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Brooding MMC
▫️Slow Burn
▫️He Falls First
▫️Touch Starved
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Hockey Player
▫️Yoga Instructor
June 23, 2026
4.5 stars! Binged this hockey romance in one day 💕🔥
-Fake dating
-Yoga teacher x Hockey Player
-Dual POV
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Spice
Agh! This story hooked me, and didn’t let go! Literally binged the entire thing in a day!
Out FMC is the new yoga teacher for a professional hockey player, and all the guys won’t leave her alone- in steps the broody and intense hockey player to save the day and enter into a fake dating situation!
I love Ryan’s writing, it’s bingeable and the story was fast paced yet still leaving time for banter and all the emotions!
Both our MC’s have been through tough past situations and have to work it out together and individually.
Highly recommend this book and series for any sports romance or romance lovers!
-Fake dating
-Yoga teacher x Hockey Player
-Dual POV
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Spice
Agh! This story hooked me, and didn’t let go! Literally binged the entire thing in a day!
Out FMC is the new yoga teacher for a professional hockey player, and all the guys won’t leave her alone- in steps the broody and intense hockey player to save the day and enter into a fake dating situation!
I love Ryan’s writing, it’s bingeable and the story was fast paced yet still leaving time for banter and all the emotions!
Both our MC’s have been through tough past situations and have to work it out together and individually.
Highly recommend this book and series for any sports romance or romance lovers!
July 2, 2026
Yeah, I really liked this one. 🥹 I’ll never be over a good fake-dating, grumpy/sunshine romance.
July 24, 2026
i liked this better than the first book! the slow burn fake dating was an addicting read
August 28, 2026
Banks is book boyfriend goals. Really enjoyed this one. If you like hockey romance reads, this is a TBR must add.
June 20, 2026
When loneliness is so overpowering in your life that there's no one that can penetrate the walls. Well almost no one. When you step in to just help out in a difficult situation and then it just snowballs. Will you be able to walk away, once everything calms down?
June 26, 2026
3.75 stars
October 23, 2026
Miscommunication is probably one of my least favorite tropes
June 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. The characters had me hooked from the start. Definitely couldn’t get enough of Winnie and Banks.
July 18, 2026
God, the whole story line was predictable, and i didn’t like the way the author showed work place harassment as boys will be boys. What do you mean by that. It pissed me of show much, and instead of taking stand, fmc and her best friend came at the idea of fake dating, so other players will realise that she is claimed so they can’t harass her anymore. Tf was thatttt
And what was dana(hr) doing, the fact that she was aware that those boys were harassing her, and those 22-27yrs old men were so swept away from their feet because of new hot yoga instructor that they couldn’t even concentrate in the game. I can’t even believe how author could even think of developing the issue like that.
And what about grayson, that guy literally made sexist joke, made fmc felt like a object, spreaded rumours , but then later realised oh howw perfect mmc and fmc are together and then backed off by only apologising for spreading those rumours.
And now for mmc, mmc doesn’t even have a backbone, in the start when he realises that all his colleagues are harassing her, instead of taking stand he believes that it’s not his business and by the time he does decides to take stand, it’s done by coming with a plan to fake date, broooooo tell me how is it justifying 😭😭😭😭😭
And What do you mean that boys will be boys, and their adrenaline, energy is so much they can’t take a No, and they have to make everything and especially women as entertainment and until unless she is taken or claimed, she is fair game to be harassed, degrade, and make a joke of.
I would have still given it 4 stars even if the plot is too predictable only if the author could have highlighted things going on and not conclude with just boys will be boys. Coz it’s a shame
And what was dana(hr) doing, the fact that she was aware that those boys were harassing her, and those 22-27yrs old men were so swept away from their feet because of new hot yoga instructor that they couldn’t even concentrate in the game. I can’t even believe how author could even think of developing the issue like that.
And what about grayson, that guy literally made sexist joke, made fmc felt like a object, spreaded rumours , but then later realised oh howw perfect mmc and fmc are together and then backed off by only apologising for spreading those rumours.
And now for mmc, mmc doesn’t even have a backbone, in the start when he realises that all his colleagues are harassing her, instead of taking stand he believes that it’s not his business and by the time he does decides to take stand, it’s done by coming with a plan to fake date, broooooo tell me how is it justifying 😭😭😭😭😭
And What do you mean that boys will be boys, and their adrenaline, energy is so much they can’t take a No, and they have to make everything and especially women as entertainment and until unless she is taken or claimed, she is fair game to be harassed, degrade, and make a joke of.
I would have still given it 4 stars even if the plot is too predictable only if the author could have highlighted things going on and not conclude with just boys will be boys. Coz it’s a shame
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2026
This was such a fun, heartfelt sports romance with the perfect blend of fake dating, slow-burn chemistry, and emotional depth.
Winnie Garrett is determined to focus on her new job as the New York Knights’ yoga instructor after leaving a toxic relationship behind. She is rebuilding her confidence, setting boundaries, and trying not to let romance complicate her fresh start. Banks Callahan, meanwhile, has spent his entire life keeping people at a distance. His childhood in the foster system taught him that needing someone only gives them the power to hurt you.
When Winnie becomes a little too distracting for Banks’s teammates, he suggests they pretend to date so the other players will back off. Naturally, the plan that is supposed to make everything easier only makes their lives much more complicated.
I loved the contrast between Winnie’s warmth and Banks’s guarded personality. Their banter was playful, their chemistry felt natural, and the small moments between them made their growing connection believable. Banks’s emotional journey was especially moving. Beneath his tough, detached exterior is someone who desperately wants love and belonging but is terrified of losing it.
Winnie was also a wonderful heroine. She is kind and optimistic, but she is not a pushover. Watching her regain her confidence after a damaging relationship added substance to the romance and made her easy to root for.
The fake dating setup delivers plenty of funny and swoony moments, but the story also explores trust, vulnerability, healing, and the fear of opening your heart after being hurt. What begins as a ridiculous solution to a locker-room problem slowly turns into something tender and very real.
Sweet, emotional, and full of chemistry, this is a satisfying romance for readers who enjoy guarded heroes, strong heroines, found family, and fake relationships that become impossible to fake.
A charming and heartfelt read that proves sometimes the person you never planned to need becomes the one you cannot imagine losing.
Winnie Garrett is determined to focus on her new job as the New York Knights’ yoga instructor after leaving a toxic relationship behind. She is rebuilding her confidence, setting boundaries, and trying not to let romance complicate her fresh start. Banks Callahan, meanwhile, has spent his entire life keeping people at a distance. His childhood in the foster system taught him that needing someone only gives them the power to hurt you.
When Winnie becomes a little too distracting for Banks’s teammates, he suggests they pretend to date so the other players will back off. Naturally, the plan that is supposed to make everything easier only makes their lives much more complicated.
I loved the contrast between Winnie’s warmth and Banks’s guarded personality. Their banter was playful, their chemistry felt natural, and the small moments between them made their growing connection believable. Banks’s emotional journey was especially moving. Beneath his tough, detached exterior is someone who desperately wants love and belonging but is terrified of losing it.
Winnie was also a wonderful heroine. She is kind and optimistic, but she is not a pushover. Watching her regain her confidence after a damaging relationship added substance to the romance and made her easy to root for.
The fake dating setup delivers plenty of funny and swoony moments, but the story also explores trust, vulnerability, healing, and the fear of opening your heart after being hurt. What begins as a ridiculous solution to a locker-room problem slowly turns into something tender and very real.
Sweet, emotional, and full of chemistry, this is a satisfying romance for readers who enjoy guarded heroes, strong heroines, found family, and fake relationships that become impossible to fake.
A charming and heartfelt read that proves sometimes the person you never planned to need becomes the one you cannot imagine losing.
July 24, 2026
Team yoga instructor isn’t treated like a human by the team because she’s hot so broody man calls fake dibs on her so she can do her job. They fall in love. There. You read it too.
June 25, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book completely stole my heart.
Banks and Winnie were such a fun pair to follow. He's a professional hockey player with a permanent grumpy expression and enough emotional baggage to fill an arena. She's a sunshine filled yoga instructor who somehow manages to get under his skin in the best possible way. 🔥
The fake dating arrangement starts with a simple goal: helping Winnie avoid some unwanted attention and making her job a little easier. Of course, things become much more complicated once real feelings start getting involved. 🌝
What I loved most was watching their relationship slowly become something real. The quiet support. The thoughtful moments. All the little ways they showed up for each other.
Winnie was wonderful. And Banks honestly broke my heart at times. The wounds from his past ran deep, and it was easy to understand why he kept people at a distance. Beneath all that grumpiness was someone who had spent a long time believing he wasn't worth staying for. Seeing Winnie slowly break through those walls felt incredibly rewarding.
I also loved the teammates and friends. They brought so much humor, warmth, and energy to the story. Every scene with them made the world feel more alive.
This was one of those books that left me smiling from beginning to end. Sweet, comforting, funny, and full of heart. The romance felt natural, the chemistry was undeniable, and I couldn't help rooting for these two.
If you love grumpy sunshine, fake dating, hockey romance, emotional healing, and characters who become each other's safe place, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
This book completely stole my heart.
Banks and Winnie were such a fun pair to follow. He's a professional hockey player with a permanent grumpy expression and enough emotional baggage to fill an arena. She's a sunshine filled yoga instructor who somehow manages to get under his skin in the best possible way. 🔥
The fake dating arrangement starts with a simple goal: helping Winnie avoid some unwanted attention and making her job a little easier. Of course, things become much more complicated once real feelings start getting involved. 🌝
What I loved most was watching their relationship slowly become something real. The quiet support. The thoughtful moments. All the little ways they showed up for each other.
Winnie was wonderful. And Banks honestly broke my heart at times. The wounds from his past ran deep, and it was easy to understand why he kept people at a distance. Beneath all that grumpiness was someone who had spent a long time believing he wasn't worth staying for. Seeing Winnie slowly break through those walls felt incredibly rewarding.
I also loved the teammates and friends. They brought so much humor, warmth, and energy to the story. Every scene with them made the world feel more alive.
This was one of those books that left me smiling from beginning to end. Sweet, comforting, funny, and full of heart. The romance felt natural, the chemistry was undeniable, and I couldn't help rooting for these two.
If you love grumpy sunshine, fake dating, hockey romance, emotional healing, and characters who become each other's safe place, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
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