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Ice Ice Babygirl
Hockey goalie Robbie Zeiger plans to spend his first weeks of retirement figuring himself out and getting custody of his nephew, Sawyer. He lasts a few days before said kid signs him up to make a fool of himself ice-dancing on national television.
Good thing Robbie’s never taken himself too seriously.
When cast member Stef breaks her collarbone, choreographer and former ice-dancer Finn has reservations about filling in. But Robbie proves game to be half of a same-sex pair, so Finn falls back in love with competing, even if he does smell a setup. His new partner happens to be his sister’s bestie’s “tragically single” uncle? Suspicious.
What’s supposed to be a cool summer on the ice heats up fast. Robbie has no defense against Finn’s charms, especially when he has his hands all over him every day. The no-fraternizing rule means they have to sneak around, but meeting up in hotel rooms like Finn is Robbie’s mistress only fuels their sex drives.
Then Robbie’s personal life implodes and he has to put his feelings for Finn on the back burner. How can they find their balance as a team off the ice if they never get any practice?
Good thing Robbie’s never taken himself too seriously.
When cast member Stef breaks her collarbone, choreographer and former ice-dancer Finn has reservations about filling in. But Robbie proves game to be half of a same-sex pair, so Finn falls back in love with competing, even if he does smell a setup. His new partner happens to be his sister’s bestie’s “tragically single” uncle? Suspicious.
What’s supposed to be a cool summer on the ice heats up fast. Robbie has no defense against Finn’s charms, especially when he has his hands all over him every day. The no-fraternizing rule means they have to sneak around, but meeting up in hotel rooms like Finn is Robbie’s mistress only fuels their sex drives.
Then Robbie’s personal life implodes and he has to put his feelings for Finn on the back burner. How can they find their balance as a team off the ice if they never get any practice?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2026
25 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Ashlyn Kane
33 books528 followersAshlyn Kane is a thirtysomething writer, editor, procrastinator, and dog mom. She likes cheese, puns, and hockey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed pretty much everything about this book except for the sex scenes!! Feminisation is just not for me and once it gave me the ick there was no recovering and I found myself dreading the next one. If you like feminisation though you'll probably enjoy it much more!
I loved the single dad aspect with Robbie and Sawyer, although I could have done without the grandparents arrival - they were awful enough without needing on-page action. Robbie's dedication to Sawyer was so cool and I also loved how Finn fitted into their family. I would have liked more of Finn and Robbie getting to know each other on page though...
The ice dance contest was fun but Chad felt like one conflict too many when there was already so much else going on.
Sawyer was my favourite character though. I loved how dramatic he was, and his joy at junk food. Plus I just got an Oodie and it is the best sensory experience ever so it was fun to see Sawyer wearing his!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I loved the single dad aspect with Robbie and Sawyer, although I could have done without the grandparents arrival - they were awful enough without needing on-page action. Robbie's dedication to Sawyer was so cool and I also loved how Finn fitted into their family. I would have liked more of Finn and Robbie getting to know each other on page though...
The ice dance contest was fun but Chad felt like one conflict too many when there was already so much else going on.
Sawyer was my favourite character though. I loved how dramatic he was, and his joy at junk food. Plus I just got an Oodie and it is the best sensory experience ever so it was fun to see Sawyer wearing his!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
January 15, 2026
4.5 I had a really good time with this book. It follows retired hockey goalie Robbie and former competitive ice dancer Finn as they navigate a cute and kinky romance on Dance Your Ice Off, a show similar to Dancing With the Stars but featuring professional athletes on ice.
I adored the relationship from start to finish. Robbie and Finn were so cute, and fit together perfectly. There was very little angst, but a minor miscommunication hiccup about three-quarters of the way in that I didn't actually mind (I HATE that trope!).
It's fairly mild in spicy scenes, with a few being more fade to black, but definitely heavy on the kink when not. Be prepared for heavy feminization kink.
Overall I will be keeping my eye on these authors.
*I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*
I adored the relationship from start to finish. Robbie and Finn were so cute, and fit together perfectly. There was very little angst, but a minor miscommunication hiccup about three-quarters of the way in that I didn't actually mind (I HATE that trope!).
It's fairly mild in spicy scenes, with a few being more fade to black, but definitely heavy on the kink when not. Be prepared for heavy feminization kink.
Overall I will be keeping my eye on these authors.
*I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*
January 5, 2026
Thank you @ashlynkanebooks and @author.morganjames for letting me read this book early!
I had SUCH a great time with Robbie and Finn. First of all, Robbie gives off immediate Daddy vibes as a guardian to his nephew, and it endeared me to him instantly. He was just SUCH a good caretaker and my heart was sufficiently warmed??? Sawyer was hilarious signing Robbie up for the show where he was paired with Finn and let’s just just say, the chemistry was *instant* between these two.
I felt like the stakes were appropriately high and I *LOVED* the call out of communicating and how important it is. Finn and Robbie had two completely different understandings as to what was going on. Once they talked I was like FINALLY YESSSSS!!
I loved the kids meddling in Robbie and Finn’s love lives. I loved the plot with Sawyer. I loved watching Robbie and Finn discover so much about themselves together. I loved the Pride day and I loved how protective Robbie was. I loved how vulnerable Finn was. I loved them.
The chapter titles had me laughing out loud (wish you weren’t so f*ckin awkward, bud), and the spice had me blushing. I was warm all over in a good way. It was 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨. This book also contains my favorite spicy microtrope so !!!!
In conclusion, it’s a yes from me. I loved it.
I had SUCH a great time with Robbie and Finn. First of all, Robbie gives off immediate Daddy vibes as a guardian to his nephew, and it endeared me to him instantly. He was just SUCH a good caretaker and my heart was sufficiently warmed??? Sawyer was hilarious signing Robbie up for the show where he was paired with Finn and let’s just just say, the chemistry was *instant* between these two.
I felt like the stakes were appropriately high and I *LOVED* the call out of communicating and how important it is. Finn and Robbie had two completely different understandings as to what was going on. Once they talked I was like FINALLY YESSSSS!!
I loved the kids meddling in Robbie and Finn’s love lives. I loved the plot with Sawyer. I loved watching Robbie and Finn discover so much about themselves together. I loved the Pride day and I loved how protective Robbie was. I loved how vulnerable Finn was. I loved them.
The chapter titles had me laughing out loud (wish you weren’t so f*ckin awkward, bud), and the spice had me blushing. I was warm all over in a good way. It was 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨. This book also contains my favorite spicy microtrope so !!!!
In conclusion, it’s a yes from me. I loved it.
January 18, 2026
This book was a solid four stars for me, and I enjoyed it much more than the previous book I read from these authors, so I am glad I was influenced by some of my reading friends to request it.
What I enjoyed: The story is fun and sweet. The main characters are great and well developed. The secondary characters too. The "villains'" behaviour was plausible, which, I find often in these types of stories they can be motivationless caricatures. While I don't generally love a meddling kids device, this wasn't implausible so it didn't take me out of the story. And after some retconning, the steam was very steamy indeed. The ice dancing stuff was mostly new to me and fun. And I certainly appreciate the way Robbie took such good care of Sawyer. Oh! And the chapter titles were very clever and had me chuckling.
What didn't work for me: Sadly, I think there is something about the authors' voice that doesn't quite work for me. Speaking of retconning: as I mentioned in my review of their last book, they have a tendency to vaguely allude to something that will be explained a few paragraphs or pages later that really pulls me out of the story. Finally, as a Torontonian reader, the carjacking comment near the beginning was weird and they referred to the subway as the metro (which no one does here). Again, things that sort of took me out of the book.
I do recommend this book. It was light and cozy and hot. And I must admit that that characters really stuck with me for a while after reading.
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from the authors and Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
What I enjoyed: The story is fun and sweet. The main characters are great and well developed. The secondary characters too. The "villains'" behaviour was plausible, which, I find often in these types of stories they can be motivationless caricatures. While I don't generally love a meddling kids device, this wasn't implausible so it didn't take me out of the story. And after some retconning, the steam was very steamy indeed. The ice dancing stuff was mostly new to me and fun. And I certainly appreciate the way Robbie took such good care of Sawyer. Oh! And the chapter titles were very clever and had me chuckling.
What didn't work for me: Sadly, I think there is something about the authors' voice that doesn't quite work for me. Speaking of retconning: as I mentioned in my review of their last book, they have a tendency to vaguely allude to something that will be explained a few paragraphs or pages later that really pulls me out of the story. Finally, as a Torontonian reader, the carjacking comment near the beginning was weird and they referred to the subway as the metro (which no one does here). Again, things that sort of took me out of the book.
I do recommend this book. It was light and cozy and hot. And I must admit that that characters really stuck with me for a while after reading.
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from the authors and Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2026
Rating - 3.5 stars rounded up
This was very cute, fun, and pretty low angst. Robbie is a retired NHL goalie and somewhat dad to his teen nephew (progressively you learn he is more of a true dad and then adoption proceedings happen later in the book). His nephew signs him up for a version of Dancing With the Stars but figure skating. That’s where Robbie meets Finn and through a series of events they become the first same sex couple to compete on the show. I love a reality TV show trope so this was really fun.
Both MC’s are pretty openly bi and Robbie’s nephew is trans. They attend a pride parade and everything was really lovely with no homophobia to be seen. A lot of the side characters were very lovely as well.
It was pretty instalove with miscommunication around 80% but overall it was fun and cute so I didn’t mind.
I will say this has heavy feminization kink as well.
My favorite parts of this book were the show aspects - the rivalries, the dance routines that they performed and which songs/vibes they were going for ⛸
This was very cute, fun, and pretty low angst. Robbie is a retired NHL goalie and somewhat dad to his teen nephew (progressively you learn he is more of a true dad and then adoption proceedings happen later in the book). His nephew signs him up for a version of Dancing With the Stars but figure skating. That’s where Robbie meets Finn and through a series of events they become the first same sex couple to compete on the show. I love a reality TV show trope so this was really fun.
Both MC’s are pretty openly bi and Robbie’s nephew is trans. They attend a pride parade and everything was really lovely with no homophobia to be seen. A lot of the side characters were very lovely as well.
It was pretty instalove with miscommunication around 80% but overall it was fun and cute so I didn’t mind.
I will say this has heavy feminization kink as well.
My favorite parts of this book were the show aspects - the rivalries, the dance routines that they performed and which songs/vibes they were going for ⛸
January 16, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This story requires just a little bit of suspension of disbelief. The premise that an entire reality show is based on former hockey players learning ice dancing to compete for charity money is just a touch farfetched. However, the authors take this niche concept and run with it in the best way. This story if filled with characters who have plenty of heart, amusing banter (that actually made me laugh out loud at least twice, which is a rare feat), and a love story that consumes the MCs. There’s no real third act break up, the miscommunication feels real and is resolved quickly by the MCs actually talking, and it features two men who are just obsessed with each other in the best way.
This is a well deserved happily ever after, a fun story with some depth, and two appealing MCs who find everything they are looking for.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This story requires just a little bit of suspension of disbelief. The premise that an entire reality show is based on former hockey players learning ice dancing to compete for charity money is just a touch farfetched. However, the authors take this niche concept and run with it in the best way. This story if filled with characters who have plenty of heart, amusing banter (that actually made me laugh out loud at least twice, which is a rare feat), and a love story that consumes the MCs. There’s no real third act break up, the miscommunication feels real and is resolved quickly by the MCs actually talking, and it features two men who are just obsessed with each other in the best way.
This is a well deserved happily ever after, a fun story with some depth, and two appealing MCs who find everything they are looking for.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
Review of advance copy
I absolutely love it when books at set in Canada! Bonus points for being in Ontario!!! As a northern Ontario girlie I live for it! Lol
I love all the representation in this book. Robbie being bisexual his nephew being trans and being the most amazing support system for him 🥰
Finn also being bisexual but having to fight against the stereotypes because hes also a figure skater. I loved reading how the kids meddling into Finn and Robbies friendship/friends with benefits was funny. I really enjoyed it.
It was a very good read.
I love all the representation in this book. Robbie being bisexual his nephew being trans and being the most amazing support system for him 🥰
Finn also being bisexual but having to fight against the stereotypes because hes also a figure skater. I loved reading how the kids meddling into Finn and Robbies friendship/friends with benefits was funny. I really enjoyed it.
It was a very good read.
January 13, 2026
ashlyn kane … morgan james .. you did it again !!!! i loved loved this book so much
i love the setting and i loved loved the grease mention and just the storyline overall !!!! robbie is such a sweetheart oh myyyyy (it might be because he’s a goalie and i love goalies) !!
finn, i see you 😝 the chemistry between the two main characters is sooo good, i love them together and even tho there’s conflicts in the story i do feel it’s low angst 🧐 i do feel that we could have had a longer boom but that’s just me being greedy haha i love this book so much
thank you for the arc 🩷🩷
i love the setting and i loved loved the grease mention and just the storyline overall !!!! robbie is such a sweetheart oh myyyyy (it might be because he’s a goalie and i love goalies) !!
finn, i see you 😝 the chemistry between the two main characters is sooo good, i love them together and even tho there’s conflicts in the story i do feel it’s low angst 🧐 i do feel that we could have had a longer boom but that’s just me being greedy haha i love this book so much
thank you for the arc 🩷🩷
January 20, 2026
Boy, with how goofy and adorkable Robbie is (and to some extent Finn as well), I was NOT expecting the sudden sharp left turn into dirty talking and kink this book took! Spicy indeed. This book does dive into the realm of kink, and while I personally dislike feminization as a fetish, I'm not here to yuck anyone's yum. AND this book was SO GOOD that even though it dealt with a kink I actively dislike, I still have to give it 5 stars. I adore the relationship between Robbie and Sawyer.
CW for transphobia towards a side character that involves things like family members misgendering and deadnaming him (but don't worry, Robbie sweeps in like a vengeful papa bear and nips that right in the bud!)
CW for transphobia towards a side character that involves things like family members misgendering and deadnaming him (but don't worry, Robbie sweeps in like a vengeful papa bear and nips that right in the bud!)
January 19, 2026
This is my first time reading this author duo, and I really enjoyed their writing style. It was engaging and easily kept my attention, including the sex scenes. Lately, I’ve been zoning out during them, but the feminization kink was pretty hot, for lack of a fancier term.
4/5 stars.
4/5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I loved the idea of the plot about a retired hockey goalie signing up for a reality TV show that pairs hockey players with figure skaters to dance on the ice.
Unfortunately, that also brings me to my biggest gripe with the book - the reality TV show aspect got wayyyyy too little attention. I expected more on-page time to be spent on it, and was disappointed when it was basically just a backdrop. There were a few transscripts, one social media post and reaction, and a few scenes taking place during the filming of the show, but all of those were very short and few and far in between. I wanted more!
More time is spent in other plot points surrounding Robbie's nephew, Sawyer and the battle for custody. Except that plot also mostly happened off-page? We mostly get to see the emotional reactions from Sawyer and Robbie. I really enjoyed that plotline, but here, too, I found myself wanting more depth. At the same time, I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of time spent on the bigoted grandparents who also wanted custody.
Speaking of bigots, there seemed to be a bit of a setup for an antagonist in the form of a homophobic hockey player contestant in the show, but that entire plot went absolutely nowhere, which had me very confused.
Generally, I found the book lacked a bit of depth. It rarely lingered in any of its emotions, scenes, or plot, and as such was very fast-paced. It meant I absolutey sped through the book and read it in almost a single sitting, and I had a great time with it as I devoured it, but in retrospect I wanted a bit more from it.
The romance also unfortunately did not work for me at all. I did like Robbie and Finn together a lot, and I liked their banted and interactions, but every single sex and romantic scene went from 0 to 100 so quickly I got whiplash. I was genuinely thrown by how suddenly their attraction sparked and went into full on lusting for each other. The sex scenes were well written, but here, too, it got really kinky way too quickly. The feminization kink was tagged appropriately, and they really went for it. The lack of proper negotiation is acknowledged on-page, though not really worked through. The equivalent of the third-act-breakup was handled fine and generally pretty drama free, except the conclusion once again went WAY too quickly emotionally for me.
For all my griping, I had a great time with this. I enjoyed the setup and the characters, and the family dynamics in particular. I loooooved how Robbie showed up for his trans nephew and stood up and fought for him. The pace of the romance, however, did not work for me at all, and while I enjoyed the fast pace, I wanted more depth from almost all aspects of the book.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Unfortunately, that also brings me to my biggest gripe with the book - the reality TV show aspect got wayyyyy too little attention. I expected more on-page time to be spent on it, and was disappointed when it was basically just a backdrop. There were a few transscripts, one social media post and reaction, and a few scenes taking place during the filming of the show, but all of those were very short and few and far in between. I wanted more!
More time is spent in other plot points surrounding Robbie's nephew, Sawyer and the battle for custody. Except that plot also mostly happened off-page? We mostly get to see the emotional reactions from Sawyer and Robbie. I really enjoyed that plotline, but here, too, I found myself wanting more depth. At the same time, I appreciated that there wasn't a lot of time spent on the bigoted grandparents who also wanted custody.
Speaking of bigots, there seemed to be a bit of a setup for an antagonist in the form of a homophobic hockey player contestant in the show, but that entire plot went absolutely nowhere, which had me very confused.
Generally, I found the book lacked a bit of depth. It rarely lingered in any of its emotions, scenes, or plot, and as such was very fast-paced. It meant I absolutey sped through the book and read it in almost a single sitting, and I had a great time with it as I devoured it, but in retrospect I wanted a bit more from it.
The romance also unfortunately did not work for me at all. I did like Robbie and Finn together a lot, and I liked their banted and interactions, but every single sex and romantic scene went from 0 to 100 so quickly I got whiplash. I was genuinely thrown by how suddenly their attraction sparked and went into full on lusting for each other. The sex scenes were well written, but here, too, it got really kinky way too quickly. The feminization kink was tagged appropriately, and they really went for it. The lack of proper negotiation is acknowledged on-page, though not really worked through. The equivalent of the third-act-breakup was handled fine and generally pretty drama free, except the conclusion once again went WAY too quickly emotionally for me.
For all my griping, I had a great time with this. I enjoyed the setup and the characters, and the family dynamics in particular. I loooooved how Robbie showed up for his trans nephew and stood up and fought for him. The pace of the romance, however, did not work for me at all, and while I enjoyed the fast pace, I wanted more depth from almost all aspects of the book.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
As a reader who has known it was time to jump into Ashlyn/Morgan's books for a while now, this was an interesting spot to start 😂
The book follows Robbie, a retired goalie who gets identity crimes committed against him in the form of his nephew slash semi-adopted child Sawyer pretending to be Robbie's manager to get him signed up for an ice dancing version of Dancing with the Stars, as a part of a matchmaking plot to get him to fall in love with his best friend's older brother, Finn, only to find out that his assigned partner is injured, and he's now going to be in the competition's first ever same-sex pairing with the older brother. Convoluted? Yep! Possibly illegal? You betcha! Weirdly effective? Can't argue with results!
I really enjoyed Robbie and Finn both individually as a pair, they were super cute together and balanced each other well both in competition and as a couple. I do wish we'd gotten to spend a little more time with them together just being able to be. Robbie especially had a LOT going on, and never let himself get too weighed down by all the struggles of securing his and Sawyer's lives. Every time they were together, it was either practicing/competing in the show, chaperoning the teenagers, or having fun feminization kink sex. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about the kink going in because I've seen it done well and I've seen it lean too hard into it and become overkill, and this was a bit in the middle of treading the line of too insistent on itself, but still handled well in that it was kept rooted as a sexytimes kink, and not something they started trying to apply to non-sexual moments. Also as a reality TV junkie, I would've liked to spend a little more time with the show and see how it's structured, this leaned a little too hard on the expectation that any reader is going to know how a competition show functions by now, which is fair but I still want to spend more time in the process, it was a huge draw of the book.
Finally, I liked all of the controversies in a vacuum, but I think the book could've done without one of them. We had the forbidden romance of it all (although it was only forbidden by contract and the one enforcing the contract was Finn's best friend, so it never really felt all that forbidden), the homophobic competitor of it all (aptly named Chad lmao), and the even more homophobic grandparents demanding access and custody of Sawyer of it all (the most necessary plotline of the three, imo). And like all of these could belong in this book, but I think the book was a little too short to adequately support all three.
With all of this said, I had an absolute blast with this one, it exceeded my expectations, and I can promise it isn't going to be the last of their books that I read.
I received an ARC of this title from Gay Romance Reviews, in exchange for a fair review.
The book follows Robbie, a retired goalie who gets identity crimes committed against him in the form of his nephew slash semi-adopted child Sawyer pretending to be Robbie's manager to get him signed up for an ice dancing version of Dancing with the Stars, as a part of a matchmaking plot to get him to fall in love with his best friend's older brother, Finn, only to find out that his assigned partner is injured, and he's now going to be in the competition's first ever same-sex pairing with the older brother. Convoluted? Yep! Possibly illegal? You betcha! Weirdly effective? Can't argue with results!
I really enjoyed Robbie and Finn both individually as a pair, they were super cute together and balanced each other well both in competition and as a couple. I do wish we'd gotten to spend a little more time with them together just being able to be. Robbie especially had a LOT going on, and never let himself get too weighed down by all the struggles of securing his and Sawyer's lives. Every time they were together, it was either practicing/competing in the show, chaperoning the teenagers, or having fun feminization kink sex. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about the kink going in because I've seen it done well and I've seen it lean too hard into it and become overkill, and this was a bit in the middle of treading the line of too insistent on itself, but still handled well in that it was kept rooted as a sexytimes kink, and not something they started trying to apply to non-sexual moments. Also as a reality TV junkie, I would've liked to spend a little more time with the show and see how it's structured, this leaned a little too hard on the expectation that any reader is going to know how a competition show functions by now, which is fair but I still want to spend more time in the process, it was a huge draw of the book.
Finally, I liked all of the controversies in a vacuum, but I think the book could've done without one of them. We had the forbidden romance of it all (although it was only forbidden by contract and the one enforcing the contract was Finn's best friend, so it never really felt all that forbidden), the homophobic competitor of it all (aptly named Chad lmao), and the even more homophobic grandparents demanding access and custody of Sawyer of it all (the most necessary plotline of the three, imo). And like all of these could belong in this book, but I think the book was a little too short to adequately support all three.
With all of this said, I had an absolute blast with this one, it exceeded my expectations, and I can promise it isn't going to be the last of their books that I read.
I received an ARC of this title from Gay Romance Reviews, in exchange for a fair review.
Review of advance copy
ARC Review
*mild spoilers ahead*
I was really excited about this book because I loved the Hockey Ever After series by the same authors. So, going in, my expectations were pretty high. And while I did enjoy the story in general, I have to admit I’m a little conflicted.
Here’s the thing: the premise and plot are solid, really well executed. I loved the overall theme, the family dynamics, and how each character felt fully developed. At first glance, everything works. But the connection between the main guys? That’s where it fell apart for me.
The infatuation comes out of nowhere. This isn’t even a fast burn, it’s straight up instant combustion. One moment, they’re friends and dance partners, sharing a nice rapport but nothing that screams real attraction, and the next, they’re head over heels and planning secret hook ups. It felt rushed and unearned, like the emotional connection just wasn’t there.
Then the smut hits, and to be honest, it feels like you’re reading a completely different book. The sudden feminization/sexual worker role play? Totally out of left field. There were zero hints that either character had that kink, and even though Robbie admits they should’ve talked about it beforehand, it still feels jarring and disconnected from the rest of the story. Now, in general, I really enjoy feminization in MM romance when it fits the context. But here? It didn’t feel organic. It almost pulled me out of the story because it didn’t match the tone.
Which is frustrating because, like I said, once Robbie and Finn are together, it works . Their dynamic feels sweet and believable at that point. It’s just the journey to get there that puzzles me, the lack of buildup and the sudden closeness.
Honestly, without the spice, I probably would’ve rated th is book higher than three stars. But the abrupt shift and the disconnected sex scenes really took away from the experience for me.
On the bright side, the side characters are charming and fun, and they add a lot of warmth to the story. The antagonistic grandparents, though? Way too “cartoon villain” for my taste, kind of over the top and cliché. And the TV show/contest subplot felt unnecessary and underdeveloped, like it was thrown in for drama without much payoff.
So, like I said, I’m conflicted because this is a story that, on the surface, is super enjoyable, but the shortcomings are big enough that it left me scratching my head at some points.
*mild spoilers ahead*
I was really excited about this book because I loved the Hockey Ever After series by the same authors. So, going in, my expectations were pretty high. And while I did enjoy the story in general, I have to admit I’m a little conflicted.
Here’s the thing: the premise and plot are solid, really well executed. I loved the overall theme, the family dynamics, and how each character felt fully developed. At first glance, everything works. But the connection between the main guys? That’s where it fell apart for me.
The infatuation comes out of nowhere. This isn’t even a fast burn, it’s straight up instant combustion. One moment, they’re friends and dance partners, sharing a nice rapport but nothing that screams real attraction, and the next, they’re head over heels and planning secret hook ups. It felt rushed and unearned, like the emotional connection just wasn’t there.
Then the smut hits, and to be honest, it feels like you’re reading a completely different book. The sudden feminization/sexual worker role play? Totally out of left field. There were zero hints that either character had that kink, and even though Robbie admits they should’ve talked about it beforehand, it still feels jarring and disconnected from the rest of the story. Now, in general, I really enjoy feminization in MM romance when it fits the context. But here? It didn’t feel organic. It almost pulled me out of the story because it didn’t match the tone.
Which is frustrating because, like I said, once Robbie and Finn are together, it works . Their dynamic feels sweet and believable at that point. It’s just the journey to get there that puzzles me, the lack of buildup and the sudden closeness.
Honestly, without the spice, I probably would’ve rated th is book higher than three stars. But the abrupt shift and the disconnected sex scenes really took away from the experience for me.
On the bright side, the side characters are charming and fun, and they add a lot of warmth to the story. The antagonistic grandparents, though? Way too “cartoon villain” for my taste, kind of over the top and cliché. And the TV show/contest subplot felt unnecessary and underdeveloped, like it was thrown in for drama without much payoff.
So, like I said, I’m conflicted because this is a story that, on the surface, is super enjoyable, but the shortcomings are big enough that it left me scratching my head at some points.
January 15, 2026
Ice Ice Babygirl
By: Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James
So much fun!
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Robbie and Finn have a lot of chemistry and the authors built it up throughout the book. Definitely had its uncomfortable people that you just want to scream at the pages. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors blurb: Hockey goalie Robbie Zeiger plans to spend his first weeks of retirement figuring himself out and getting custody of his nephew, Sawyer. He lasts a few days before said kid signs him up to make a fool of himself ice-dancing on national television.
Good thing Robbie’s never taken himself too seriously.
When cast member Stef breaks her collarbone, choreographer and former ice-dancer Finn has reservations about filling in. But Robbie proves game to be half of a same-sex pair, so Finn falls back in love with competing, even if he does smell a setup. His new partner happens to be his sister’s bestie’s “tragically single” uncle? Suspicious.
What’s supposed to be a cool summer on the ice heats up fast. Robbie has no defense against Finn’s charms, especially when he has his hands all over him every day. The no-fraternizing rule means they have to sneak around, but meeting up in hotel rooms like Finn is Robbie’s mistress only fuels their sex drives.
Then Robbie’s personal life implodes and he has to put his feelings for Finn on the back burner. How can they find their balance as a team off the ice if they never get any practice?
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James
So much fun!
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Robbie and Finn have a lot of chemistry and the authors built it up throughout the book. Definitely had its uncomfortable people that you just want to scream at the pages. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors blurb: Hockey goalie Robbie Zeiger plans to spend his first weeks of retirement figuring himself out and getting custody of his nephew, Sawyer. He lasts a few days before said kid signs him up to make a fool of himself ice-dancing on national television.
Good thing Robbie’s never taken himself too seriously.
When cast member Stef breaks her collarbone, choreographer and former ice-dancer Finn has reservations about filling in. But Robbie proves game to be half of a same-sex pair, so Finn falls back in love with competing, even if he does smell a setup. His new partner happens to be his sister’s bestie’s “tragically single” uncle? Suspicious.
What’s supposed to be a cool summer on the ice heats up fast. Robbie has no defense against Finn’s charms, especially when he has his hands all over him every day. The no-fraternizing rule means they have to sneak around, but meeting up in hotel rooms like Finn is Robbie’s mistress only fuels their sex drives.
Then Robbie’s personal life implodes and he has to put his feelings for Finn on the back burner. How can they find their balance as a team off the ice if they never get any practice?
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
January 10, 2026
I received an advanced copy of Ice Ice Babygirl from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review!
3.25 ⭐️ I enjoyed this. The back and forth banter was entertaining, cute and kind of hilarious! There was rep ALL OVER THE PLACE!! Trans, Bi, Gay, Lesbian, Drag, Age (older 35-40 year old MC’s). It was super refreshing!
There’s one scene where Finn and Robbie are getting hair and makeup done before they go out to film some b-roll footage for the Ice Dancing competition. After that scene, I had a HARD time picturing them as anything other than Chazz Michael Michaels and Jimmy MacElroy (Will Ferrell and Jon Heder) from Blades of Glory. And if you’ve seen that movie, it obviously ruined the sexy vibes Finn and Robbie had going for them 😂 Don’t worry, once they started on 10 Things I hate about you, I automatically saw them as Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger ice dancing queens ❤️ So, just keep in mind… it gets better!
Finn is a bisexual former world champion ice dancer turned choreographer for a televised ice dancing competition where professional ice skaters are paired with hockey players. (LOVED THE CONCEPT! I would totally watch this if it was a real thing!)
Robbie is a bisexual 40 year old recently retired NHL goalie. Raising his trans nephew, who secretly enters him into the ice dancing competition.
The relationship between Finn and Robbie was so fun to watch play out!
“Finn, you have heart feelings, not just penis feelings!”
It was this fun flirty rom-com vibe for half of the book and then all of a sudden it’s “are you being a good boy for me, sweetheart?” “You wanna be my babygirl” “naughty girl”. It’s not the feminization that bothered me, I actually really enjoyed that part — it’s just that it literally came of out of nowhere. There was no real transition. It was almost like their personalities changed mid book which made the relationship not flow as well. Overall, though, I enjoyed it. O thought the ending was really good. It was a quick fun read!
*I have to say, I’m in the same boat as Finn, 10 Things I Hate About You is probably what made my younger self realize she was bi too 😂 *
As Vanilla Ice would say, Alright stop, collaborate and listen - go grab this book for a refreshing lil palate cleanser!
Word to your mother.
3.25 ⭐️ I enjoyed this. The back and forth banter was entertaining, cute and kind of hilarious! There was rep ALL OVER THE PLACE!! Trans, Bi, Gay, Lesbian, Drag, Age (older 35-40 year old MC’s). It was super refreshing!
There’s one scene where Finn and Robbie are getting hair and makeup done before they go out to film some b-roll footage for the Ice Dancing competition. After that scene, I had a HARD time picturing them as anything other than Chazz Michael Michaels and Jimmy MacElroy (Will Ferrell and Jon Heder) from Blades of Glory. And if you’ve seen that movie, it obviously ruined the sexy vibes Finn and Robbie had going for them 😂 Don’t worry, once they started on 10 Things I hate about you, I automatically saw them as Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger ice dancing queens ❤️ So, just keep in mind… it gets better!
Finn is a bisexual former world champion ice dancer turned choreographer for a televised ice dancing competition where professional ice skaters are paired with hockey players. (LOVED THE CONCEPT! I would totally watch this if it was a real thing!)
Robbie is a bisexual 40 year old recently retired NHL goalie. Raising his trans nephew, who secretly enters him into the ice dancing competition.
The relationship between Finn and Robbie was so fun to watch play out!
“Finn, you have heart feelings, not just penis feelings!”
It was this fun flirty rom-com vibe for half of the book and then all of a sudden it’s “are you being a good boy for me, sweetheart?” “You wanna be my babygirl” “naughty girl”. It’s not the feminization that bothered me, I actually really enjoyed that part — it’s just that it literally came of out of nowhere. There was no real transition. It was almost like their personalities changed mid book which made the relationship not flow as well. Overall, though, I enjoyed it. O thought the ending was really good. It was a quick fun read!
*I have to say, I’m in the same boat as Finn, 10 Things I Hate About You is probably what made my younger self realize she was bi too 😂 *
As Vanilla Ice would say, Alright stop, collaborate and listen - go grab this book for a refreshing lil palate cleanser!
Word to your mother.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ice Ice Babygirl is the story of freshly retired goalie Robbie Zeiger, who is unknowingly signed up for reality TV, and choreographer Finn Graham, who’s unwillingly dragged back into competition by a series of unscripted events. Cast as Dance Your Ice Off’s first-ever same-sex duo, Robbie spins into Finn’s orbit like a quadruple Axel colliding with Halley’s Comet—courtesy of two meddling Gen Alpha masterminds: Robbie’s chaos gremlin of a son, Sawyer, and Finn’s younger sister, Imogen. Truly elite rom-com matchmaker besties.
The chemistry between these MCs is scorching from the jump. The problem? Robbie’s straight… right? The real villains here—aside from a giga-Chad antagonist and some truly abysmal parental figures—are miscommunication, assumptions, and the slow dismantling of toxic masculinity. Robbie and Finn very much skate into a relationship ass-first at speed and define it later, much to the stress of everyone who actually cares about these two lovable idiots.
Just when our heroes find a rhythm, life pulls an Uno reverse. Robbie has to reckon with his brother’s life choices, throwing a wrench into both his post–reality TV plans with Sawyer and his future with Finn. The dialogue zips, the spice is saucy (fair warning for feminization kink—though with a title like Ice Ice Babygirl, expect the unexpected), and at its core, this is a story about love finding a way through fear, pride, and chronic communication failures.
Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James excel at writing epic slice-of-life romance layered with dad jokes, deep feelings, found family, and the messy process of unlearning toxic family dynamics. Their work consistently reflects a thoughtful, compassionate understanding of the human condition—and Ice Ice Babygirl is no exception.
Below is an illustration I made for Week 1 Swing Dance.
The chemistry between these MCs is scorching from the jump. The problem? Robbie’s straight… right? The real villains here—aside from a giga-Chad antagonist and some truly abysmal parental figures—are miscommunication, assumptions, and the slow dismantling of toxic masculinity. Robbie and Finn very much skate into a relationship ass-first at speed and define it later, much to the stress of everyone who actually cares about these two lovable idiots.
Just when our heroes find a rhythm, life pulls an Uno reverse. Robbie has to reckon with his brother’s life choices, throwing a wrench into both his post–reality TV plans with Sawyer and his future with Finn. The dialogue zips, the spice is saucy (fair warning for feminization kink—though with a title like Ice Ice Babygirl, expect the unexpected), and at its core, this is a story about love finding a way through fear, pride, and chronic communication failures.
Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James excel at writing epic slice-of-life romance layered with dad jokes, deep feelings, found family, and the messy process of unlearning toxic family dynamics. Their work consistently reflects a thoughtful, compassionate understanding of the human condition—and Ice Ice Babygirl is no exception.
Below is an illustration I made for Week 1 Swing Dance.
Review of advance copy
You can always count on Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James for two things: snappy dialogue and hot sex. Take those as a given, then relax and enjoy the ride.
Dramatis Personae
Robbie, a retired NHL goalie, at loose ends; bi
Finn, a retired professional ice dancer and a choreographer; also bi: how convenient
Holly, a reality show host; Finn’s best friend
Sawyer, Robbie’s 14-year-old nephew
Imogen, Sawyer’s best friend
Various parents and others
The Setup:
Sawyer, in early development for a career as a professional shit-stirrer, has forged Robbie’s signature on a reality-show contract. The show in question pairs ice dancers with hockey players à la Dancing with the Stars; Robbie was originally going to be paired with a woman, but she’s got a broken collarbone so Finn is dragooned into replacing her, Robbie has no objections to being paired with a man, and we’re off.
The Subplot:
Robbie has essentially been parenting Sawyer for years, because Sawyer’s mother is dead and his father, while nontoxic, seems to have more or less fallen apart in widowerhood and is neglectful at best. Robbie does not, however, have legal guardianship of Sawyer, and this is a problem because Sawyer is trans and his grandparents, who are every flavor of queerphobic but especially transphobic, eventually seek custody.
Ice Ice Babygirl is a romance, so it’s no spoiler to say that the grandparents get a satisfying comeuppance and that all’s well for Sawyer, Robbie, and Finn.
The Sex:
On gut instinct Robbie throws in some light feminization and bossiness the first time he and Finn have sex, matters proceed from there, and oh my goodness. I’m indifferent to feminization kink but, as mentioned above, Kane and James can be counted on for hot sex scenes and this book is no exception. Feminization kink, I understand you now.
The Quarter Star I’m Deducting:
Is for a few misused words (“nonplussed” means “taken aback”! please, people, I’m begging here), for the authors’ occasional delivery of political lectures (vs letting the politics just emerge from the action), and for the maybe-just-slightly implausible miscommunication scenario (for the avoidance of doubt, however, there’s no third-act breakup).
[ETA: After I posted this review I suddenly remembered a scene in which someone is urged to buy a doorbell camera, in order to avoid unwanted visitors {she said vaguely}. PEOPLE!!! What happened to just putting a peephole in the door and thereby avoiding some iota of participation in the surveillance economy & the surveillance state? Well? WELL????]
The Verdict:
Gosh, this was a lot of fun. [And put a peephole in your front door if you want to see who's out there, FFS. Did you know that some of these internet-enabled devices will cooperate with the agents of the fascist state without your consent? Not to mention how their normalization contributes to a culture of suspicion and hostility toward strangers.]
Thanks to GRR and the authors for the ARC; this is my honest opinion, etc.
Dramatis Personae
Robbie, a retired NHL goalie, at loose ends; bi
Finn, a retired professional ice dancer and a choreographer; also bi: how convenient
Holly, a reality show host; Finn’s best friend
Sawyer, Robbie’s 14-year-old nephew
Imogen, Sawyer’s best friend
Various parents and others
The Setup:
Sawyer, in early development for a career as a professional shit-stirrer, has forged Robbie’s signature on a reality-show contract. The show in question pairs ice dancers with hockey players à la Dancing with the Stars; Robbie was originally going to be paired with a woman, but she’s got a broken collarbone so Finn is dragooned into replacing her, Robbie has no objections to being paired with a man, and we’re off.
The Subplot:
Robbie has essentially been parenting Sawyer for years, because Sawyer’s mother is dead and his father, while nontoxic, seems to have more or less fallen apart in widowerhood and is neglectful at best. Robbie does not, however, have legal guardianship of Sawyer, and this is a problem because Sawyer is trans and his grandparents, who are every flavor of queerphobic but especially transphobic, eventually seek custody.
Ice Ice Babygirl is a romance, so it’s no spoiler to say that the grandparents get a satisfying comeuppance and that all’s well for Sawyer, Robbie, and Finn.
The Sex:
On gut instinct Robbie throws in some light feminization and bossiness the first time he and Finn have sex, matters proceed from there, and oh my goodness. I’m indifferent to feminization kink but, as mentioned above, Kane and James can be counted on for hot sex scenes and this book is no exception. Feminization kink, I understand you now.
The Quarter Star I’m Deducting:
Is for a few misused words (“nonplussed” means “taken aback”! please, people, I’m begging here), for the authors’ occasional delivery of political lectures (vs letting the politics just emerge from the action), and for the maybe-just-slightly implausible miscommunication scenario (for the avoidance of doubt, however, there’s no third-act breakup).
[ETA: After I posted this review I suddenly remembered a scene in which someone is urged to buy a doorbell camera, in order to avoid unwanted visitors {she said vaguely}. PEOPLE!!! What happened to just putting a peephole in the door and thereby avoiding some iota of participation in the surveillance economy & the surveillance state? Well? WELL????]
The Verdict:
Gosh, this was a lot of fun. [And put a peephole in your front door if you want to see who's out there, FFS. Did you know that some of these internet-enabled devices will cooperate with the agents of the fascist state without your consent? Not to mention how their normalization contributes to a culture of suspicion and hostility toward strangers.]
Thanks to GRR and the authors for the ARC; this is my honest opinion, etc.
January 17, 2026
4-4.5 stars
Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James did it again! This duo is one to watch out for because honestly, they don’t miss. I so enjoyed reading Finn and Robbie’s story, which was equal parts sweet and sexy.
Robbie’s personal life is a bit of a mess. He just retired from hockey, not sure where to go next, and is trying to figure out how to get permanent custody of his 14 year old transgender nephew that he’s been parenting for his absentee brother. Robbie’s got all the fun dad energy and is pretty easygoing and definitely a bit of the weird goalie stereotype, so when his nephew (Sawyer) signs him up for an ice dancing competition show, he’s all in.
Finn is the one guy he’s not supposed to date (his work contract has rules about fraternizing) but neither one of them can resist the romance that forms after their friendship. Sawyer and Imogen (Finn’s younger sister) are best friends, so they see each other on and off the ice. Honestly, the family dynamics were some of my favourite moments in the book. Watching Robbie and Finn navigate two sassy teens was wonderfully fun. I really loved the family moments, especially when Robbie revealed that he didn’t have that easy love with his own parents.
Robbie and Finn’s relationship felt really beautifully done, moving from an easy friendship to a passionate relationship. They were supportive and understanding of each other, even when they had to cancel plans for work or parenting duties. I do wish the transition from friends to lovers had been a little smoother, though. That part felt a bit rushed and sudden, which was a touch jarring.
Their physical relationship featured a good deal of feminization kink, so if that’s something you enjoy, yay! If it’s not, please go in knowing that it’s very present in the more intimate scenes. It’s not my personal go to, but I did think it was well executed.
Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James did it again! This duo is one to watch out for because honestly, they don’t miss. I so enjoyed reading Finn and Robbie’s story, which was equal parts sweet and sexy.
Robbie’s personal life is a bit of a mess. He just retired from hockey, not sure where to go next, and is trying to figure out how to get permanent custody of his 14 year old transgender nephew that he’s been parenting for his absentee brother. Robbie’s got all the fun dad energy and is pretty easygoing and definitely a bit of the weird goalie stereotype, so when his nephew (Sawyer) signs him up for an ice dancing competition show, he’s all in.
Finn is the one guy he’s not supposed to date (his work contract has rules about fraternizing) but neither one of them can resist the romance that forms after their friendship. Sawyer and Imogen (Finn’s younger sister) are best friends, so they see each other on and off the ice. Honestly, the family dynamics were some of my favourite moments in the book. Watching Robbie and Finn navigate two sassy teens was wonderfully fun. I really loved the family moments, especially when Robbie revealed that he didn’t have that easy love with his own parents.
Robbie and Finn’s relationship felt really beautifully done, moving from an easy friendship to a passionate relationship. They were supportive and understanding of each other, even when they had to cancel plans for work or parenting duties. I do wish the transition from friends to lovers had been a little smoother, though. That part felt a bit rushed and sudden, which was a touch jarring.
Their physical relationship featured a good deal of feminization kink, so if that’s something you enjoy, yay! If it’s not, please go in knowing that it’s very present in the more intimate scenes. It’s not my personal go to, but I did think it was well executed.
Review of advance copy
*ARC Review* Thank you to Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James for sending me a copy!
Intro:
This book is an MM romance between Robbie, a retired hockey goalie and Finn, an ice dancer, who both compete together on a reality TV show.
Tropes/Highlights:
-Dual Third Person POV
-MM
-Open Door Spice
-Found Family
-Goalie/Ice Dancer
-Bi & Trans Rep
-Babygirl/Princess Kink
-HEA
Likes:
-So much Banter, this book was really funny
-Supportive side characters & scheming teenagers
-Lots of drama
-Such sweet MCs
-Robbie can be a bumbling idiot sometimes, but he means well
-Robbie is such a great dad
-Skating scenes were entertaining
-The cover is adorable, I can't stop looking at them
Quotes:
-"Jesus God, was this kid gentle parenting him?"
-" I think it's very team-spirited of me to avoid breaking his neck with my ass"
-"You have feelings! Heart feelings! Not just penis feelings!"
-"There's a surprising amount of jizz in heaven"
-"I will fight for you until my dying day, even if I have to fight against you"
-"If the two of you are going to be this stupid, it's everyone's problem"
-"God, you're just as bad as we are. A little drama queen. No wonder I love you so much"
This is the first book I have read from these authors and I knew at about 20% through, that I was going to love it. This story is so cute and has so many different aspects going on that meld together into the perfect romance. This story has sweet character moments, tension, passion, humor, spice, family drama, found family and more. If you are looking for a unique sports romance with fun, playful vibes and gentle, loving characters, then this is the perfect book for you. I highly recommend giving it a read!
Intro:
This book is an MM romance between Robbie, a retired hockey goalie and Finn, an ice dancer, who both compete together on a reality TV show.
Tropes/Highlights:
-Dual Third Person POV
-MM
-Open Door Spice
-Found Family
-Goalie/Ice Dancer
-Bi & Trans Rep
-Babygirl/Princess Kink
-HEA
Likes:
-So much Banter, this book was really funny
-Supportive side characters & scheming teenagers
-Lots of drama
-Such sweet MCs
-Robbie can be a bumbling idiot sometimes, but he means well
-Robbie is such a great dad
-Skating scenes were entertaining
-The cover is adorable, I can't stop looking at them
Quotes:
-"Jesus God, was this kid gentle parenting him?"
-" I think it's very team-spirited of me to avoid breaking his neck with my ass"
-"You have feelings! Heart feelings! Not just penis feelings!"
-"There's a surprising amount of jizz in heaven"
-"I will fight for you until my dying day, even if I have to fight against you"
-"If the two of you are going to be this stupid, it's everyone's problem"
-"God, you're just as bad as we are. A little drama queen. No wonder I love you so much"
This is the first book I have read from these authors and I knew at about 20% through, that I was going to love it. This story is so cute and has so many different aspects going on that meld together into the perfect romance. This story has sweet character moments, tension, passion, humor, spice, family drama, found family and more. If you are looking for a unique sports romance with fun, playful vibes and gentle, loving characters, then this is the perfect book for you. I highly recommend giving it a read!
Review of advance copy
“You like when I play with your tits, babygirl?”
Retired goalie Robbie and choreographer turned reality show competitor Finn team up as the first ever same-sex pair on Dance Your Ice Off, a reality competition show. The two discover that not only are they connected '6 degrees of Kevin Bacon' style by Robbie's nephew and Finn's sister, they also have pretty instantaneous chemistry with each other. But the show doesn't allow contestants to fraternize, and Robbie's personal life is complicated enough without publicly coming out as bisexual.
When he had Finn breathless, weak-kneed, and whisker-burned, he swiped his thumbs up from Finn’s hipbones to the bottom of his rib cage, so soft it made Finn shiver—and Finn was still being kissed within an inch of his life, clinging to Robbie like he was a raft in a storm.
This book has a lot of elements that I enjoy reading [hockey, reality tv concept, MCs brought together by cute kids and circumstance, feminization] so theoretically it should have worked for me. Unfortunately the writing was semi-meandering, with lots of extraneous details about plot items that detracted from the MCs relationship. There was so much going on in the book, from the MCs' families to Finn's career opportunities, to the fate of the reality show, to annoying co-competitors on the show, and Sawyer's (Robbie's nephew) custody and his feelings about who should be his parent. At times it felt like the book was more about Sawyer than either Robbie or Finn. They were also the most boring part of the book. Something about the balance was off, in my opinion. I guess the two MCs fell in love based on vibes, because they barely had any time together. Overall, between the ADHD plot and odd writing style, I did not enjoy it. I hate not being able to enthusiastically recommend a Canadian author, but this was absolutely not for me.
Rating: 3 stars
Angst: 2/5
Steam: 2.5/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
January 19, 2026
Ice Ice Babygirl was the first book I've read from either Morgan James or Ashlyn Kane, and it definitely had me interested enough to look into what else they've written.
The premise of throwing Finn and Robbie together in an icy version of Dancing with the Stars was fun, and the situation was one I didn't feel like I'd read a million times over. It's always nice to read something new, so I'm all for that.
I liked both Finn and Robbie, and I particularly enjoyed how connected they were to their little step-sister, in Finn's case, and nephew, in Robbie's. I'm a big fan of single dad stories, so this was a nice in between where we saw the MCs caring for someone and having some of that responsibility in a different way.
Finn and Robbie were likeable, funny, and appropriately dad-corny in the latter's case. The two of them did have good chemistry. The one area that made me kind of stumble at first was when things got spicy between them. Now, I am up for all kinds of kink, and I just finished reading (and enjoyed) another with feminization.
It simply, felt, however, that Robbie went 0 to 100 with it, without any kind of discussion, and they just happened to click immediately into that dynamic. It's funny, like it almost reminded me of how you find insta-love... With this, it was kind of like insta-kink match? I honestly don't know another way to write what I'm thinking. It didn't take away from the story as a whole, but it kind of threw me out of the story for a moment when I got to that first scene.
Really, that's my main critique, as otherwise, I felt like it was an enjoyable read with entertaining characters, some good feels thrown in, and I loved the accepting and open dynamic with Robbie and Sawyer.
The premise of throwing Finn and Robbie together in an icy version of Dancing with the Stars was fun, and the situation was one I didn't feel like I'd read a million times over. It's always nice to read something new, so I'm all for that.
I liked both Finn and Robbie, and I particularly enjoyed how connected they were to their little step-sister, in Finn's case, and nephew, in Robbie's. I'm a big fan of single dad stories, so this was a nice in between where we saw the MCs caring for someone and having some of that responsibility in a different way.
Finn and Robbie were likeable, funny, and appropriately dad-corny in the latter's case. The two of them did have good chemistry. The one area that made me kind of stumble at first was when things got spicy between them. Now, I am up for all kinds of kink, and I just finished reading (and enjoyed) another with feminization.
It simply, felt, however, that Robbie went 0 to 100 with it, without any kind of discussion, and they just happened to click immediately into that dynamic. It's funny, like it almost reminded me of how you find insta-love... With this, it was kind of like insta-kink match? I honestly don't know another way to write what I'm thinking. It didn't take away from the story as a whole, but it kind of threw me out of the story for a moment when I got to that first scene.
Really, that's my main critique, as otherwise, I felt like it was an enjoyable read with entertaining characters, some good feels thrown in, and I loved the accepting and open dynamic with Robbie and Sawyer.
Review of advance copy
**I received an electronic ARC through Gay Romance Reviews.**
Co-authors Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James turn their attention to the ice rink with Ice Ice Babygirl. Retired hockey goalie Robbie Zeiger has just received news that his nephew signed him up for a Dancing With the Stars-type ice dancing show. It's for a good cause, so he doesn't mind, but he wasn't anticipating a staff injury that leads to him being part of the first same-gender Ice dancing pair on the show. Finn Graham was a competitive ice dancer before an injury led to his early retirement and role as choreographer for the show. He has to get back in the game to partner Robbie, but wasn't expecting his hockey partner to be so kind and attentive. And Robbie's nephew is best friends with Finn's stepsister. Suddenly Finn and Robbie are going to be seeing each other quite a lot. But there is the tricky thing with the non-fraternization clause for the show.
This story was cute and lighthearted. Finn and Robbie mostly communicate well aside from when the plot demands that they don't. Robbie's care for his nephew as his would-be guardian is great to see, particularly given that Robbie's nephew is a trans teen. The external complication of a custody battle wasn't necessarily something that I felt added to the overall story beyond compiling reasons to keep a queer relationship hidden temporarily. The sexual content was spice and kink forward which seemed to be a bit of a tonal shift from the rest of the book, though everything continued to come from a place of care and sweetness.
Overall, this was a fun time that I would recommend to anyone who is interested after reading the synopsis.
Co-authors Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James turn their attention to the ice rink with Ice Ice Babygirl. Retired hockey goalie Robbie Zeiger has just received news that his nephew signed him up for a Dancing With the Stars-type ice dancing show. It's for a good cause, so he doesn't mind, but he wasn't anticipating a staff injury that leads to him being part of the first same-gender Ice dancing pair on the show. Finn Graham was a competitive ice dancer before an injury led to his early retirement and role as choreographer for the show. He has to get back in the game to partner Robbie, but wasn't expecting his hockey partner to be so kind and attentive. And Robbie's nephew is best friends with Finn's stepsister. Suddenly Finn and Robbie are going to be seeing each other quite a lot. But there is the tricky thing with the non-fraternization clause for the show.
This story was cute and lighthearted. Finn and Robbie mostly communicate well aside from when the plot demands that they don't. Robbie's care for his nephew as his would-be guardian is great to see, particularly given that Robbie's nephew is a trans teen. The external complication of a custody battle wasn't necessarily something that I felt added to the overall story beyond compiling reasons to keep a queer relationship hidden temporarily. The sexual content was spice and kink forward which seemed to be a bit of a tonal shift from the rest of the book, though everything continued to come from a place of care and sweetness.
Overall, this was a fun time that I would recommend to anyone who is interested after reading the synopsis.
Review of advance copy
It was such a nice light read and had the humour that I've come to expect from these 2. While it did cover some heavier topics (transphobia, bigotry, toxic family) it was a story that celebrated joy and love and had happy endings with some drama along the way.
We do not see a lot of actual problematic behavior on page, mostly talks of deadnaming and misgendering but there is a confrontation which is seen on page. Also talk of basically negligent parenting but having a super supportive and caring uncle basically raise the young boy.
Honestly love that Swayer has Robbie because everyone* deserves to have someone safe looking out for them. And I love their relationship and how they really have this great parent-child banter plus child tries matchmaking but isn't fooling anyone. I also love how Robbie and Finn both noticed it like right away but didn't want to say anything to each other 😂
Unlike Robbie, Finn has a very accepting and caring family and Holly! I love how Holly was all "don't fraternize..." But like she just meant don't tell me so I can have plausible deniability.
The miscommunication was hilarious to me just because of the way Swayer and immogen meddle AND GAIL!!! Love Gail's protectiveness of Finn.
I don't know how to feel about the feminization. I don't usually books with a lot of it. Usually it's a thing here or there but beware if that's a no go for you. Lots of p*say, t*ts, wet hole etc... baby girl obviously given the title.
Robbie's reaction to his miscommunication was a bit extreme. But it was cute how he brought it up to Finn.
*Except fascists.
We do not see a lot of actual problematic behavior on page, mostly talks of deadnaming and misgendering but there is a confrontation which is seen on page. Also talk of basically negligent parenting but having a super supportive and caring uncle basically raise the young boy.
Honestly love that Swayer has Robbie because everyone* deserves to have someone safe looking out for them. And I love their relationship and how they really have this great parent-child banter plus child tries matchmaking but isn't fooling anyone. I also love how Robbie and Finn both noticed it like right away but didn't want to say anything to each other 😂
Unlike Robbie, Finn has a very accepting and caring family and Holly! I love how Holly was all "don't fraternize..." But like she just meant don't tell me so I can have plausible deniability.
The miscommunication was hilarious to me just because of the way Swayer and immogen meddle AND GAIL!!! Love Gail's protectiveness of Finn.
I don't know how to feel about the feminization. I don't usually books with a lot of it. Usually it's a thing here or there but beware if that's a no go for you. Lots of p*say, t*ts, wet hole etc... baby girl obviously given the title.
Robbie's reaction to his miscommunication was a bit extreme. But it was cute how he brought it up to Finn.
*Except fascists.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First time reading a book by Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James, starting the year off right. I love discovering new to me authors. I began by having a laugh at the grammar disclaimer and as a fellow Canadian I enjoyed some of the wee timbits, I mean tidbits through out.
There was so much going on and it felt like real life...the best thing could be happening and wham struck by the worst case scenario, but you need to keep going. Responsibilities.
Robbie, NHL goalie, just easing into retirement and balancing raising his nephew. To being tossed into a reality TV show with Finn, a retired ice dancer. Goalie trying to master crossovers, and appreciating the hard work his dance belt is putting in. I really enjoyed the transcript writing for the Ice Dance competition of the show.
Robbie never let his nephew Sawyer down.
The meddling teenagers, I mean Sawyer's teenage angst and snark, it was spot on. The groans at the dad jokes. This book was funny. Robbie is such a great papa bear.
Romance, and spice aplenty, to go with self-discovery, and plenty of chaos.
‘Figure skater asks me to stand on his thighs’ was not on my bingo card for this adventure.”
This is no Blades of Glory,
“You’re so bad for my impulse control. First I call you babygirl—”
MM rom-com
Found Family
Bi & Trans rep
Goalie & Ice Dancer
Reality Competition
Feminization Kink
Open Door Spice
And you know your limits, so read the author's content warnings.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
There was so much going on and it felt like real life...the best thing could be happening and wham struck by the worst case scenario, but you need to keep going. Responsibilities.
Robbie, NHL goalie, just easing into retirement and balancing raising his nephew. To being tossed into a reality TV show with Finn, a retired ice dancer. Goalie trying to master crossovers, and appreciating the hard work his dance belt is putting in. I really enjoyed the transcript writing for the Ice Dance competition of the show.
Robbie never let his nephew Sawyer down.
The meddling teenagers, I mean Sawyer's teenage angst and snark, it was spot on. The groans at the dad jokes. This book was funny. Robbie is such a great papa bear.
Romance, and spice aplenty, to go with self-discovery, and plenty of chaos.
‘Figure skater asks me to stand on his thighs’ was not on my bingo card for this adventure.”
This is no Blades of Glory,
“You’re so bad for my impulse control. First I call you babygirl—”
MM rom-com
Found Family
Bi & Trans rep
Goalie & Ice Dancer
Reality Competition
Feminization Kink
Open Door Spice
And you know your limits, so read the author's content warnings.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
January 15, 2026
ARC received from Gay Romance Reviews.
So a confession, I love all kinds of dancing and singing reality competition shows, but my favourite is Dancing With The Stars. The background show in this was kind of like that on ice, so that earned half a star on its own.
I really loved the parent/child relationship between Sawyer and Robbie. How Robbie just accepted Sawyer being trans and it wasn't an issue. Imogen and Finn were lovely reflections even if they were more brother and sister.
So it's Sawyer who signs Robbie up for the show (Dance Your Ice Off - love it) and he and bff Imogen may have been doing some subtle matchmaking between Robbie and Finn. Except that they meant to do it with choreographer Finn, but due to an injury it turns out to be ice dance partner Finn. Which turns out to be a lot of time spent together, a lot of time in each other's arms, and it leads... places. Including some out of the blue but very steamy feminisation for Finn (hence the title). The engagement ring scenes are adorable and funny. The miscommunication is actually really understandable - given that Finn and Robbie have to keep things on the down low because of the show and Robbie not being quite out, it's easy for things to slide that way.
With the exception of the couple who were genetically responsible for Robbie's and his brother's existence, all the supporting characters, yes, even the homophobic rival, are fun and work well in the story.
A wonderful and fun story.
So a confession, I love all kinds of dancing and singing reality competition shows, but my favourite is Dancing With The Stars. The background show in this was kind of like that on ice, so that earned half a star on its own.
I really loved the parent/child relationship between Sawyer and Robbie. How Robbie just accepted Sawyer being trans and it wasn't an issue. Imogen and Finn were lovely reflections even if they were more brother and sister.
So it's Sawyer who signs Robbie up for the show (Dance Your Ice Off - love it) and he and bff Imogen may have been doing some subtle matchmaking between Robbie and Finn. Except that they meant to do it with choreographer Finn, but due to an injury it turns out to be ice dance partner Finn. Which turns out to be a lot of time spent together, a lot of time in each other's arms, and it leads... places. Including some out of the blue but very steamy feminisation for Finn (hence the title). The engagement ring scenes are adorable and funny. The miscommunication is actually really understandable - given that Finn and Robbie have to keep things on the down low because of the show and Robbie not being quite out, it's easy for things to slide that way.
With the exception of the couple who were genetically responsible for Robbie's and his brother's existence, all the supporting characters, yes, even the homophobic rival, are fun and work well in the story.
A wonderful and fun story.
Review of advance copy
What a delightful story!
My first by either Author I was entertained the whole way through and thoroughly enjoyed reading all about Finn and Robbie and their journey to a HEA.
Robbie is a retired hockey player. His nephew is sneaky sneaky and signs him up for an ice dancing reality TV show - if this is not already a real thing, it should be. Finn works on said Ice dancing reality show as a choreographer, but when one of the professional ice dancers gets injured he has to step up and partner with Robbie in the shows first ever same sex pairing.
Sparks flare on and off the ice and it isn't long before these two are crossing professional boundaries and feelings start to seep in. It was cute, it was sweet, mostly, but Robbie also has a bit of a mouth on him and likes a bit of dirty talk in the bedroom... 😄
In addition to the reality TV show, Robbie is also balancing becoming a parent to his nephew since his father is a bit of a drop kick and finds himself in prison. There's a bit of a battle with the grandparents who are also turds but Robbie steps up, as does Finn, who is more than willing to put his body and face on the line to protect his new found family. Heroic Finn was the best kind of Finn and he had me swooning throughout that whole scene. IYKYK.
Give this a whirl if your a fan of ice dancing, reality TV, sneaking around and hotel hookups, strong found family vibes, a guy that will do anything to support his nephew, and grease (the movie) lol.
Check triggers, as usual, and then strap yourself in and enjoy mate.
** Please note, I received an ARC review copy from GRR for my full and honest review. This is my honest review of this book. **
My first by either Author I was entertained the whole way through and thoroughly enjoyed reading all about Finn and Robbie and their journey to a HEA.
Robbie is a retired hockey player. His nephew is sneaky sneaky and signs him up for an ice dancing reality TV show - if this is not already a real thing, it should be. Finn works on said Ice dancing reality show as a choreographer, but when one of the professional ice dancers gets injured he has to step up and partner with Robbie in the shows first ever same sex pairing.
Sparks flare on and off the ice and it isn't long before these two are crossing professional boundaries and feelings start to seep in. It was cute, it was sweet, mostly, but Robbie also has a bit of a mouth on him and likes a bit of dirty talk in the bedroom... 😄
In addition to the reality TV show, Robbie is also balancing becoming a parent to his nephew since his father is a bit of a drop kick and finds himself in prison. There's a bit of a battle with the grandparents who are also turds but Robbie steps up, as does Finn, who is more than willing to put his body and face on the line to protect his new found family. Heroic Finn was the best kind of Finn and he had me swooning throughout that whole scene. IYKYK.
Give this a whirl if your a fan of ice dancing, reality TV, sneaking around and hotel hookups, strong found family vibes, a guy that will do anything to support his nephew, and grease (the movie) lol.
Check triggers, as usual, and then strap yourself in and enjoy mate.
** Please note, I received an ARC review copy from GRR for my full and honest review. This is my honest review of this book. **
Review of advance copy
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
***this has FEMINIZATION, so if that's NOT your thing, you might want to choose a different romance that will add joy to your reading experience!***
Ahhhhhh I adored this soooo sooooo much! It was funny, and charming, and so sexy sexy, and from the first sentence I fell hard and fast for Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James' energy! The narrative was fun, upbeat, playful, and charismatic, and I especially loved that this repped the GTA!
Robbie and Finn were supreme darlings and I loved them for each other. But also, because the sexy stuff made me fluttery and feverish on the inside, Ice Ice Babygirl was an easy, super HOT hit for me!
I think I've probably read like a handful of MM that features feminization, and STG every single time Robbie got spicy I lost my eyebrows to the top of my head and nearly passed out from the sizzle. So yeah, I most certainly blushed a trillion times harder than the thousand MM romances I'd read prior to this one, and I'm celebrating how easy it was to lose that battle!
I
Love
That for me!
So I'm really happy that Ice Ice Babygirl was an awesome, sexy, sweet read for me, and I can't wait to read whatever else Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James releases next because I'm sure I'll love every single sentence of it!
***this has FEMINIZATION, so if that's NOT your thing, you might want to choose a different romance that will add joy to your reading experience!***
Ahhhhhh I adored this soooo sooooo much! It was funny, and charming, and so sexy sexy, and from the first sentence I fell hard and fast for Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James' energy! The narrative was fun, upbeat, playful, and charismatic, and I especially loved that this repped the GTA!
Robbie and Finn were supreme darlings and I loved them for each other. But also, because the sexy stuff made me fluttery and feverish on the inside, Ice Ice Babygirl was an easy, super HOT hit for me!
I think I've probably read like a handful of MM that features feminization, and STG every single time Robbie got spicy I lost my eyebrows to the top of my head and nearly passed out from the sizzle. So yeah, I most certainly blushed a trillion times harder than the thousand MM romances I'd read prior to this one, and I'm celebrating how easy it was to lose that battle!
I
Love
That for me!
So I'm really happy that Ice Ice Babygirl was an awesome, sexy, sweet read for me, and I can't wait to read whatever else Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James releases next because I'm sure I'll love every single sentence of it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I signed up for the ARC through the GRR website for the ARC read, I had such a good feeling about the story. I really liked the cover, the description, but still, afterwards, I had a hard time actually starting it.
And now that I’ve read it, I have mixed feelings. The story was good, the characters are likable—except for Chad and the grandparents—but somehow something was missing.
What I liked:
• The chemistry between Robbie and Finn, the fact that Finn realized almost from the beginning that he was attracted to Robbie.
• Sawyer and Imogen.
• The teasing from the teens toward the adults.
What I didn’t like: the feminization… I don’t have a problem with it if it’s well communicated between the characters and fits their personalities. But here the communication happened afterward, and I get it, they got carried away, but normally before doing something like that, you’d talk about it. Also, it felt really out of character for both of them, even though Finn said he had always wanted it. Hmm…
The show got very little focus, and Chad and the “troglodytes” got too much. Also, I would have liked if we could have followed the grandparents vs. Robbie + Sawyer story through the pages.
Overall, it wasn’t a bad book, the basic concept was super, but I’m not sure I’d read it again.
The ARC copy was provided by GRR, and this is my honest opinion.
And now that I’ve read it, I have mixed feelings. The story was good, the characters are likable—except for Chad and the grandparents—but somehow something was missing.
What I liked:
• The chemistry between Robbie and Finn, the fact that Finn realized almost from the beginning that he was attracted to Robbie.
• Sawyer and Imogen.
• The teasing from the teens toward the adults.
What I didn’t like: the feminization… I don’t have a problem with it if it’s well communicated between the characters and fits their personalities. But here the communication happened afterward, and I get it, they got carried away, but normally before doing something like that, you’d talk about it. Also, it felt really out of character for both of them, even though Finn said he had always wanted it. Hmm…
The show got very little focus, and Chad and the “troglodytes” got too much. Also, I would have liked if we could have followed the grandparents vs. Robbie + Sawyer story through the pages.
Overall, it wasn’t a bad book, the basic concept was super, but I’m not sure I’d read it again.
The ARC copy was provided by GRR, and this is my honest opinion.
January 19, 2026
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, and I'm happy that the writers absolutely nailed it for me. While there are some truly awful side characters - the kind that make you want to throw your kindle - their subplots only added tension and depth, instead of detracting from the main storyline which happens more than I'd like to see.
Finn and Robbie's relationship felt believable to me, even with the instalove edge to their attraction. Maybe it was because Finn's sister and Robbie's "kid" are BFF so it made it easy for them to get to know each other once they met. Whatever it was, there was an emotional foundation there, and the circumstances around their meeting made the fast attraction make sense. I will say, the feminization kink did feel like it came out of nowhere, with zero buildup at all, but since the characters seemed to be just as surprised by it, I'll call it a win for the authors. The trans rep was handled thoughtfully and realistically, especially in how Robbie and Sawyer navigated their homophobic family members without flattening the emotional impact.
Overall, this is 100% going on my comfort reads list. It's heartfelt, messy, tender, and memborable, adn I already know I'll be rereading it someday.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Finn and Robbie's relationship felt believable to me, even with the instalove edge to their attraction. Maybe it was because Finn's sister and Robbie's "kid" are BFF so it made it easy for them to get to know each other once they met. Whatever it was, there was an emotional foundation there, and the circumstances around their meeting made the fast attraction make sense. I will say, the feminization kink did feel like it came out of nowhere, with zero buildup at all, but since the characters seemed to be just as surprised by it, I'll call it a win for the authors. The trans rep was handled thoughtfully and realistically, especially in how Robbie and Sawyer navigated their homophobic family members without flattening the emotional impact.
Overall, this is 100% going on my comfort reads list. It's heartfelt, messy, tender, and memborable, adn I already know I'll be rereading it someday.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
A mature story but filled with the goofball energy I’ve seen before in other books from these authors, and I’m here for it every time.
There are some serious topics within the story, but the angst is balanced well with humour and endearing relationships between both the MCs and with Sawyer and Imogen. It felt very grown-up despite the humour. The issues brought up were serious, and the writing made each character feel very real, even the teenagers.
Robbie comes across as down-to-earth, funny, and mature. Finn is flirty and fun. Stuck at a career crossroads and unsure of whether or not Robbie wants the same thing he does out of their relationship.
In the bedroom, Robbie changes completely and has Finn incapable of normal speech. Their dynamic was a surprise given what we had learned about them up until that point, but it just added to the fun. Any issues in the story are resolved quickly and we aren’t left with a ton of questions. Their relationship did also develop at speed but I found it didn’t bother me at all. When the heart knows what it wants why wait eh 🤷🏻♀️😆
I thought it was a funny and entertaining read, and I’m glad I got to read it in advance.
………………………………………………………….
I got an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
A mature story but filled with the goofball energy I’ve seen before in other books from these authors, and I’m here for it every time.
There are some serious topics within the story, but the angst is balanced well with humour and endearing relationships between both the MCs and with Sawyer and Imogen. It felt very grown-up despite the humour. The issues brought up were serious, and the writing made each character feel very real, even the teenagers.
Robbie comes across as down-to-earth, funny, and mature. Finn is flirty and fun. Stuck at a career crossroads and unsure of whether or not Robbie wants the same thing he does out of their relationship.
In the bedroom, Robbie changes completely and has Finn incapable of normal speech. Their dynamic was a surprise given what we had learned about them up until that point, but it just added to the fun. Any issues in the story are resolved quickly and we aren’t left with a ton of questions. Their relationship did also develop at speed but I found it didn’t bother me at all. When the heart knows what it wants why wait eh 🤷🏻♀️😆
I thought it was a funny and entertaining read, and I’m glad I got to read it in advance.
………………………………………………………….
I got an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
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