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Ski-Crossed Lovers
Canadian ski cross phenom Cedric Bérard has spent his life chasing speed, glory, and his best friend Austin down every mountain they could find. They’ve always pushed each other harder, faster, closer to the edge—until one night, Cedric falls in a different way.
One kiss. One touch. A tumble into something neither of them planned for. Suddenly Cedric’s dream isn’t just about Olympic medals—it’s about Austin. The way he makes Cedric feel weightless, the way desire hits harder than any crash on the snow, the way one night leaves Cedric craving more.
But every fall has consequences. One mistake on the mountain leaves Cedric’s future in pieces—his shot at the Games, his friendship with Austin, and the love he never expected to find. Because some falls don’t just end a race—they change the course of a life.
One kiss. One touch. A tumble into something neither of them planned for. Suddenly Cedric’s dream isn’t just about Olympic medals—it’s about Austin. The way he makes Cedric feel weightless, the way desire hits harder than any crash on the snow, the way one night leaves Cedric craving more.
But every fall has consequences. One mistake on the mountain leaves Cedric’s future in pieces—his shot at the Games, his friendship with Austin, and the love he never expected to find. Because some falls don’t just end a race—they change the course of a life.
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Published February 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 19, 2026
Follow young Canadian ski cross phenoms Austin and Cedric as they go for gold!
This best friends-to-lovers, amnesia-esque romance will have you laughing through your tears and swept away by the pace, intensity, and emotion of their connection through triumph and tragedy. I wasn’t prepared for how this story would consume me; everything about it just works from its pace to its intensity and emotional depth. Even the darkness, devastation, and all that follow are 100% worth the emotional damage to reach the other side.
I love a good Olympic romance, because there’s always a heightened level of intensity and competitiveness, both of which Allison Temple absolutely masters. It’s easy to feel the excitement and thrill of competition along with the agony of defeat. And I’m talking both on and off the slopes as Austin and Cedric acknowledge and navigate their feelings for each other.
When Austin suffers a tragic setback, these best friends are forced to figure out how to pick up the pieces. It’s the ultimate test of perseverance and resilience as they continue their quest for gold, rebuild their friendship, and fight for love.
If you’re a fan of sports romance and are swept up by the Olympic spirit, definitely give this one a try! I can’t recommend it enough - it's amazing!!
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
This best friends-to-lovers, amnesia-esque romance will have you laughing through your tears and swept away by the pace, intensity, and emotion of their connection through triumph and tragedy. I wasn’t prepared for how this story would consume me; everything about it just works from its pace to its intensity and emotional depth. Even the darkness, devastation, and all that follow are 100% worth the emotional damage to reach the other side.
I love a good Olympic romance, because there’s always a heightened level of intensity and competitiveness, both of which Allison Temple absolutely masters. It’s easy to feel the excitement and thrill of competition along with the agony of defeat. And I’m talking both on and off the slopes as Austin and Cedric acknowledge and navigate their feelings for each other.
When Austin suffers a tragic setback, these best friends are forced to figure out how to pick up the pieces. It’s the ultimate test of perseverance and resilience as they continue their quest for gold, rebuild their friendship, and fight for love.
If you’re a fan of sports romance and are swept up by the Olympic spirit, definitely give this one a try! I can’t recommend it enough - it's amazing!!
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
February 12, 2026
This didn't really hit the spot for me. The storyline was quite unique, but the romance and relationship development just wasn't there for me. They're best friends, but we don't see a lot of that. They're in love, but we don't see a lot of that. The relationship is so easy, there's no angst or sneaking around or will they / won't they. There's >!amnesia and a reconciliation!< but nothing in between made me believe they were actually in love.
January 19, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Ski-Crossed Lovers by Allison Temple kicks off the multi-author Love on the Podium collection and I really loved this story. The book has great balance, making this feel very much rooted as a sports story, while still giving ample time to developing the romance between Cedric and Austin. Ski cross is a sport that may be less familiar to readers and Temple gives a solid foundation without overloading the story with too much minutia. Ski cross is essentially racing with four skiers at a time in a series of heats, and it is a high-adrenaline, intense sport where the athletes are racing alongside one another, careening around corners, etc. Temple really captures that adrenaline rush, that sense of athletes just going for it.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Ski-Crossed Lovers by Allison Temple kicks off the multi-author Love on the Podium collection and I really loved this story. The book has great balance, making this feel very much rooted as a sports story, while still giving ample time to developing the romance between Cedric and Austin. Ski cross is a sport that may be less familiar to readers and Temple gives a solid foundation without overloading the story with too much minutia. Ski cross is essentially racing with four skiers at a time in a series of heats, and it is a high-adrenaline, intense sport where the athletes are racing alongside one another, careening around corners, etc. Temple really captures that adrenaline rush, that sense of athletes just going for it.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
January 9, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Ski-Crossed Lovers is the first book in the series Love On the Podium, a new LGBT+ Olympic Sports Romance series where each book is written by a different author. Ski-Crossed Lovers follows two Canadian best friends, Cedric and Austin, who are fighting to get to the olympics and be the best skier. They want to do it together and whilst they believe nothing can stop that… that is put to the test.
This book may only be 203 pages long but it packs a punch. It has a beautiful love story embedded into some really good scenes of the Canadian ski team. The yearning and longing in this book is subtle and beautiful, and I honestly shed a tear a couple of times. I really, really enjoyed getting to know Cedric and Austin and loved their friendship, as much as their romantic relationship.
Not only are Cedric and Austin great, the side characters are pretty damn great as well. I love Allison’s writing, and I love how in such a short book she had me falling in love with several characters, and I think she really makes you root for them. And side note if I could hug Cedric, I would!!
The book is written from Cedric’s POV throughout and I must admit I do always prefer when a story is told from one character’s POV over it being dual so that really made me happy. That being said, I would definitely get on board with seeing Austin’s POV through this journey!
If you like a little bit of angst, some spicy scenes, hurt/comfort and sports romance in general, this book is definitely for you.
Ski-Crossed Lovers is the first book in the series Love On the Podium, a new LGBT+ Olympic Sports Romance series where each book is written by a different author. Ski-Crossed Lovers follows two Canadian best friends, Cedric and Austin, who are fighting to get to the olympics and be the best skier. They want to do it together and whilst they believe nothing can stop that… that is put to the test.
This book may only be 203 pages long but it packs a punch. It has a beautiful love story embedded into some really good scenes of the Canadian ski team. The yearning and longing in this book is subtle and beautiful, and I honestly shed a tear a couple of times. I really, really enjoyed getting to know Cedric and Austin and loved their friendship, as much as their romantic relationship.
Not only are Cedric and Austin great, the side characters are pretty damn great as well. I love Allison’s writing, and I love how in such a short book she had me falling in love with several characters, and I think she really makes you root for them. And side note if I could hug Cedric, I would!!
The book is written from Cedric’s POV throughout and I must admit I do always prefer when a story is told from one character’s POV over it being dual so that really made me happy. That being said, I would definitely get on board with seeing Austin’s POV through this journey!
If you like a little bit of angst, some spicy scenes, hurt/comfort and sports romance in general, this book is definitely for you.
February 17, 2026
A best-friends to lovers MM ski cross romance novella set during the Milan Olympics. I loved learning more about the sport of ski cross and adored the journey of these two characters. There’s an amnesia trope to this story that felt natural and complemented the overarching romance. A quick, fun, queer joy read that got me excited to watch ski cross!
January 27, 2026
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy of this book. The reading experience was enjoyable. I felt the love and tension and all the emotions the man character went through. I really enjoyed that there was enough information about skiing for me to get it but not enough to bore me.
February 28, 2026
So many words, so little story. This could have been a (good) short story, but the rabbit trails into a lot details of minutiae, and internal monologues were boring.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was totally captivated with a story that gave an insider view of what sacrifices an athlete has to make to get to the Olympics. You can be perfect almost consistently, and one small slip-up can cost you everything. I felt as if I was experiencing being in the Olympic village along with the athletes, which was an interesting perspective.
Zed and Austin are best buds who share the intense love of skiing and extreme competing. Austin has cinched a spot on the Olympic team, and Zed still has a chance to qualify. Austin finally has the courage to confess to Zed his true feelings towards him. I loved how scared yet bold Austin was.
Once Zed gets over the shock, the two share the best night of his life. However, life can be fickle because, in a fraction of a second, Zed may lose the most important person in the world to him. Even though there are light and fluffy moments, Ms. Temple created a horrifying event that made an enormous impact on Zed. The two men are separated until they both end up at the Olympics. The problem is there is so much distance between them.
I adored Austin, who had a gigantic heart, and triumphed over a horrible situation that would have destroyed most people. Zed suffers from trauma since that surreal day on the mountain, but plain old determination, and finally, the much needed talking things out was the balm they needed to heal.
This is a sweet and tender love story that had moments as challenging as their races. I highly recommend this enthralling book, and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. My special thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book for my reading pleasure. A review was not a requirement.
Zed and Austin are best buds who share the intense love of skiing and extreme competing. Austin has cinched a spot on the Olympic team, and Zed still has a chance to qualify. Austin finally has the courage to confess to Zed his true feelings towards him. I loved how scared yet bold Austin was.
Once Zed gets over the shock, the two share the best night of his life. However, life can be fickle because, in a fraction of a second, Zed may lose the most important person in the world to him. Even though there are light and fluffy moments, Ms. Temple created a horrifying event that made an enormous impact on Zed. The two men are separated until they both end up at the Olympics. The problem is there is so much distance between them.
I adored Austin, who had a gigantic heart, and triumphed over a horrible situation that would have destroyed most people. Zed suffers from trauma since that surreal day on the mountain, but plain old determination, and finally, the much needed talking things out was the balm they needed to heal.
This is a sweet and tender love story that had moments as challenging as their races. I highly recommend this enthralling book, and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. My special thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book for my reading pleasure. A review was not a requirement.
February 3, 2026
I read Ski-Crossed Lovers by Allison Temple in one sitting. This is the first installment in the Love on the Podium series, a collection of five loosely connected queer stories by five authors, and it can easily be read as a standalone.
The story follows Cedric and Austin. While they have been friends forever, there’s also a friendly rivalry between them on the slopes. When we first meet them, they’re competing against each other to qualify for a spot on the Canadian Olympic team.
After Austin secures his spot on the team he confesses his feelings to Zed and they share a VERY hot night together. But the next day Austin gets into a serious accident and, as a result, suffers from amnesia.
While Austin spends months in rehab trying to get back on the slopes in time for the Games, the two of them don’t stay in touch. The first time they meet again is at the Games, where things are a bit strained at first. Zed is unsure how to proceed because of Austin’s amnesia and his own inability to forget the night they spent together.
I loved this story. As I mentioned at the beginning, I read it in one sitting—the pages just flew by, and suddenly I was at the end. The chemistry was fantastic: their friendship and banter were SO good. And just when you think everything is okay and you can’t stop smiling at the book, the author goes and twists your heart. The story is told solely from Cedric’s point of view, so we only witness his side of the accident, and that part had my heart in my throat.
I also loved how comfortable they were with each other once they admitted their feelings.
Ski-Crossed Lovers strikes the perfect balance between spiciness, heartfelt moments, and just a bit of angst. I would definitely recommend it, and I can’t wait to check out the rest of the series!
Content notes: This book is pretty fluffy, but does involve a serious ski injury on the slopes, including mentions of blood, broken bones and other internal trauma, followed by a scene at the hospital. Also conversations about mental health. HEA still guaranteed.
The story follows Cedric and Austin. While they have been friends forever, there’s also a friendly rivalry between them on the slopes. When we first meet them, they’re competing against each other to qualify for a spot on the Canadian Olympic team.
After Austin secures his spot on the team he confesses his feelings to Zed and they share a VERY hot night together. But the next day Austin gets into a serious accident and, as a result, suffers from amnesia.
While Austin spends months in rehab trying to get back on the slopes in time for the Games, the two of them don’t stay in touch. The first time they meet again is at the Games, where things are a bit strained at first. Zed is unsure how to proceed because of Austin’s amnesia and his own inability to forget the night they spent together.
I loved this story. As I mentioned at the beginning, I read it in one sitting—the pages just flew by, and suddenly I was at the end. The chemistry was fantastic: their friendship and banter were SO good. And just when you think everything is okay and you can’t stop smiling at the book, the author goes and twists your heart. The story is told solely from Cedric’s point of view, so we only witness his side of the accident, and that part had my heart in my throat.
I also loved how comfortable they were with each other once they admitted their feelings.
Ski-Crossed Lovers strikes the perfect balance between spiciness, heartfelt moments, and just a bit of angst. I would definitely recommend it, and I can’t wait to check out the rest of the series!
Content notes: This book is pretty fluffy, but does involve a serious ski injury on the slopes, including mentions of blood, broken bones and other internal trauma, followed by a scene at the hospital. Also conversations about mental health. HEA still guaranteed.
December 30, 2025
SKI-CROSSED LOVERS - ALLISON TEMPLE
This is the first story I have read by Allison Temple and while it’s part of the Love On The Podium series, it can be read as a standalone.
Cedric (Zed) and Austin have been friends for years and push each other to do better as they both compete for a place on the Canadian Olympic team.
Austin finally wins a competition that insures his place on the team, and it gives him the courage to finally confess to Zed how he feels. While Zed is disappointed he hasn’t made the team (but still has a chance at it over the next 8 months), he is surprised at Austin’s confession and realizes he feels the same way about him. After an amazing night of sharing love and exploring the many ways to show their feelings, unexpected tragedy happens when Austin has an accident on the slopes that almost takes his life.
Zed sits at the hospital waiting impatiently while Austin goes through surgery, only to discover when he wakes up he has no memory after the competition the day before. Knowing Austin has a long road ahead of him Austin leaves him with his family and continues his path to get on the Olympic Team.
Fast forward 8 months later and they are both in Italy for the Olympics after another teammate is disqualified and Zed is asked to replace him at the last minute. Austin is initially hurt and upset because Zed didn’t stay in touch while he was going through his rehabilitation, but when he eventually finds out what his missing memories included, they were able to work through the drama and find their way back together.
There were a lot of great side characters and the ski cross action is described so even a person that has never watched the sport before will understand it. Allison writes a very engaging book and the reader will not be able to put it down. I look forward to future stories by this author.
This is the first story I have read by Allison Temple and while it’s part of the Love On The Podium series, it can be read as a standalone.
Cedric (Zed) and Austin have been friends for years and push each other to do better as they both compete for a place on the Canadian Olympic team.
Austin finally wins a competition that insures his place on the team, and it gives him the courage to finally confess to Zed how he feels. While Zed is disappointed he hasn’t made the team (but still has a chance at it over the next 8 months), he is surprised at Austin’s confession and realizes he feels the same way about him. After an amazing night of sharing love and exploring the many ways to show their feelings, unexpected tragedy happens when Austin has an accident on the slopes that almost takes his life.
Zed sits at the hospital waiting impatiently while Austin goes through surgery, only to discover when he wakes up he has no memory after the competition the day before. Knowing Austin has a long road ahead of him Austin leaves him with his family and continues his path to get on the Olympic Team.
Fast forward 8 months later and they are both in Italy for the Olympics after another teammate is disqualified and Zed is asked to replace him at the last minute. Austin is initially hurt and upset because Zed didn’t stay in touch while he was going through his rehabilitation, but when he eventually finds out what his missing memories included, they were able to work through the drama and find their way back together.
There were a lot of great side characters and the ski cross action is described so even a person that has never watched the sport before will understand it. Allison writes a very engaging book and the reader will not be able to put it down. I look forward to future stories by this author.
February 14, 2026
4⭐️
•spoilers•
Cedric has grown up competing in ski cross with his best friend Austin. After one night, their lives change forever. They fall into each other in new ways and see a bright future ahead. However, one fall is also all it takes for their best laid plans to crumble and Cedric is left reeling with the reality of the aftermath.
Cedric is a sensitive soul for a competitor but he's dedicated to training and being the best. Austin's always there, pushing him to the next level and being the only person to know what they've been through. Cedric is in love with his best friend, but he can't bring himself to lay it all on the line when Austin doesn't remember their confessions. Between Austin's rehab in another part of the country, trying to qualify himself for the Olympics, and the guilt and trauma stemming from the accident, Cedric struggles to communicate and the distance grows between them. Where Austin was the instigator before, now Cedric has to be brave to get the man of his dreams back and make up for the time they've lost. The one thing that never changed was their feelings for one another, even if they couldn't say it. Their rock solid foundation is unshakable. Even with everything that happened, once the air is cleared they can pick back up from where they left off and focus on their real goal - the Olympic medal.
I loved the idea but it needed a bit more oomph. In the middle between the accident and the Olympics had so much potential to be really angsty and emotional, but it was just skipped over. I also think their reunion/big pivotal scene could've been a bit more explosive. A dual POV would've killed on this story too. I could see the vision and what I read I was really into, I just wanted more.
I've been reading winter Olympic theme books in the spirit of the season and this was a perfect change up from all the figure skating. It's cool it takes place during this current Olympics too, and the fact their sport was skiing was so new and fresh. I loved the vibes and am definitely going to try to find some more similar to this read.
Read if you like:
• friends to lovers
• hurt/comfort
• ski cross
•••••••••••••••••••••
•spoilers•
Cedric has grown up competing in ski cross with his best friend Austin. After one night, their lives change forever. They fall into each other in new ways and see a bright future ahead. However, one fall is also all it takes for their best laid plans to crumble and Cedric is left reeling with the reality of the aftermath.
Cedric is a sensitive soul for a competitor but he's dedicated to training and being the best. Austin's always there, pushing him to the next level and being the only person to know what they've been through. Cedric is in love with his best friend, but he can't bring himself to lay it all on the line when Austin doesn't remember their confessions. Between Austin's rehab in another part of the country, trying to qualify himself for the Olympics, and the guilt and trauma stemming from the accident, Cedric struggles to communicate and the distance grows between them. Where Austin was the instigator before, now Cedric has to be brave to get the man of his dreams back and make up for the time they've lost. The one thing that never changed was their feelings for one another, even if they couldn't say it. Their rock solid foundation is unshakable. Even with everything that happened, once the air is cleared they can pick back up from where they left off and focus on their real goal - the Olympic medal.
I loved the idea but it needed a bit more oomph. In the middle between the accident and the Olympics had so much potential to be really angsty and emotional, but it was just skipped over. I also think their reunion/big pivotal scene could've been a bit more explosive. A dual POV would've killed on this story too. I could see the vision and what I read I was really into, I just wanted more.
I've been reading winter Olympic theme books in the spirit of the season and this was a perfect change up from all the figure skating. It's cool it takes place during this current Olympics too, and the fact their sport was skiing was so new and fresh. I loved the vibes and am definitely going to try to find some more similar to this read.
Read if you like:
• friends to lovers
• hurt/comfort
• ski cross
•••••••••••••••••••••
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did find myself rooting for fictional characters in a sport I never heard about before.
This book was just greatly written. The sports part had me holding my breath at every race to the point I was rooting for every single side character in their team, but the romance omg the love I can feel through the pages to my soul.
(ps: that german racer is my enemy now)
Ski-Crossed Lovers is the first book in the Love On The Podium shared queer romance series, a series that's also written by queer writers inspired by different Olympic sports and I cannot recommend it enough!
~Blurb~
Canadian ski cross phenom Cedric Bérard has spent his life chasing speed, glory, and his best friend Austin down every mountain they could find. They’ve always pushed each other harder, faster, closer to the edge—until one night, Cedric falls in a different way.
One kiss. One touch. A tumble into something neither of them planned for. Suddenly Cedric’s dream isn’t just about Olympic medals—it’s about Austin. The way he makes Cedric feel weightless, the way desire hits harder than any crash on the snow, the way one night leaves Cedric craving more.
But every fall has consequences. One mistake on the mountain leaves Cedric’s future in pieces—his shot at the Games, his friendship with Austin, and the love he never expected to find. Because some falls don’t just end a race—they change the course of a life.
Tropes:
💙 Teammates to Lovers
🥇 Fast Start
💙 Slow Burn
🥇 Amnesia
💙 Olympic Romance
🥇 MM Romance
Ski-Crossed Lovers comes out on Jan 19th, make sure to check it out!
Thanks Allison Temple and her team for sending this ARC in exchange for my honest review
⭐ ⭐⭐ ⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
#SkiCrossedLovers #AllisonTemple #MMRomance #OlympicRomance #QueerRomance
This book was just greatly written. The sports part had me holding my breath at every race to the point I was rooting for every single side character in their team, but the romance omg the love I can feel through the pages to my soul.
(ps: that german racer is my enemy now)
Ski-Crossed Lovers is the first book in the Love On The Podium shared queer romance series, a series that's also written by queer writers inspired by different Olympic sports and I cannot recommend it enough!
~Blurb~
Canadian ski cross phenom Cedric Bérard has spent his life chasing speed, glory, and his best friend Austin down every mountain they could find. They’ve always pushed each other harder, faster, closer to the edge—until one night, Cedric falls in a different way.
One kiss. One touch. A tumble into something neither of them planned for. Suddenly Cedric’s dream isn’t just about Olympic medals—it’s about Austin. The way he makes Cedric feel weightless, the way desire hits harder than any crash on the snow, the way one night leaves Cedric craving more.
But every fall has consequences. One mistake on the mountain leaves Cedric’s future in pieces—his shot at the Games, his friendship with Austin, and the love he never expected to find. Because some falls don’t just end a race—they change the course of a life.
Tropes:
💙 Teammates to Lovers
🥇 Fast Start
💙 Slow Burn
🥇 Amnesia
💙 Olympic Romance
🥇 MM Romance
Ski-Crossed Lovers comes out on Jan 19th, make sure to check it out!
Thanks Allison Temple and her team for sending this ARC in exchange for my honest review
⭐ ⭐⭐ ⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
#SkiCrossedLovers #AllisonTemple #MMRomance #OlympicRomance #QueerRomance
Review of advance copy
This is a romance between 2 skiers who have been friends a very long time. Both are training for the Olympics.
Austin admits he loves Cedric, they spend an entire night together. Cedric and Austin are skiing together the next day when Austin slips and takes an extremely serious fall. Austin ends up in the hospital, in numerous surgeries and in months or rehab. When Cedric goes to see Austin at the hospital immediately afterwards, Austin remembers nothing of the night before. Despite them being friends, Cedric really doesn't get to see him much in those months due to training schedules and rehab schedules. Things are strained between them due to Austin's amnesia about the night they spent together. They meet again in the Olympics. Forced proximity makes sparks fly again.
Lots of action, interesting side characters, drama over the relationship. This is written entirely from Cedric's point of view - in fact, I spent the first couple of chapters trying to figure out who "I" was (because the author doesn't tell us Cedric's name for several chapters). I had to go back to the summary to find out who the main character was supposed to be. If I had any complaints about this book, that would be it - it would have been nice to know who the main character was immediately instead of making it a guessing game. Honestly, I was a bit confused during chapter 1 because of this. Other than that, though - really good read.
Austin admits he loves Cedric, they spend an entire night together. Cedric and Austin are skiing together the next day when Austin slips and takes an extremely serious fall. Austin ends up in the hospital, in numerous surgeries and in months or rehab. When Cedric goes to see Austin at the hospital immediately afterwards, Austin remembers nothing of the night before. Despite them being friends, Cedric really doesn't get to see him much in those months due to training schedules and rehab schedules. Things are strained between them due to Austin's amnesia about the night they spent together. They meet again in the Olympics. Forced proximity makes sparks fly again.
Lots of action, interesting side characters, drama over the relationship. This is written entirely from Cedric's point of view - in fact, I spent the first couple of chapters trying to figure out who "I" was (because the author doesn't tell us Cedric's name for several chapters). I had to go back to the summary to find out who the main character was supposed to be. If I had any complaints about this book, that would be it - it would have been nice to know who the main character was immediately instead of making it a guessing game. Honestly, I was a bit confused during chapter 1 because of this. Other than that, though - really good read.
February 22, 2026
Ski-Crossed Lovers is a rivals to friends to lovers to maybe friends to lovers mm romance with lots of skiing, pinning, intimacy, and emotional trauma. Cedric first met Austin on the ski hills as a competitor. After many years and races, they become friends, both representing Canada at many events. It's after a qualifier for the Olympics that Austin confesses his feelings for Cedric go beyond friendship, and that leads to a night of record-setting passion between them. But their new relationship is short-lived when Austin crashes during a ski run and barely survives. His recovery happens far away from Cedric and a portion of Austin's memory is gone, including qualifying for the Olympics and the night he confessed his feelings to Cedric. But Cedric remembers that night and finding him in the woods after his accident, not sure if his best friend and new lover would survive. Cedric must try to work through his emotional trauma while Austin goes through tons of physical therapy if they are ever going to compete in ski cross or even be friends again. This story was such a great romance and perfect to be read during the Olympics, but also can be read any time. I look forward to reading more from Allison Temple as well as other Love on the Podium stories!
February 13, 2026
Cedric and Austin, best friends since childhood, have dreams of going to the Olympics together. But on a photo shoot after a weekend of racing, the two go down the hill but Austin does not make it to the bottom. Cedric goes looking for him and finds he has crashed over the side of the hill. Can Cedric help Austin? Will their dream of Olympic fame happen?
I loved Cedric and Austin. They do a lot of trash talking on the slopes but genuinely care about each other. They have their breakthrough before the accident. After the accident, Cedric does not know how to talk to Austin and puts distance between them. I felt bad for both of them. When the next season comes, Cedric's head is still messed up but he will not open up with the team's psychologist. I wanted to smack him upside of his head. When he and Austin finally talk, it helps Cedric a lot. Austin still has no memory of that weekend but he accepts what Cedric tells him about the night before the accident. Their teammates could corroborate Cedric's story. I found Matthieu and Kage a hoot. There is no hiding anything between teammates or even competitors.
I plan to read the rest of the series. This one was so good.
I loved Cedric and Austin. They do a lot of trash talking on the slopes but genuinely care about each other. They have their breakthrough before the accident. After the accident, Cedric does not know how to talk to Austin and puts distance between them. I felt bad for both of them. When the next season comes, Cedric's head is still messed up but he will not open up with the team's psychologist. I wanted to smack him upside of his head. When he and Austin finally talk, it helps Cedric a lot. Austin still has no memory of that weekend but he accepts what Cedric tells him about the night before the accident. Their teammates could corroborate Cedric's story. I found Matthieu and Kage a hoot. There is no hiding anything between teammates or even competitors.
I plan to read the rest of the series. This one was so good.
January 27, 2026
Thank you for the eARC!! I loved this book so much - well, maybe not so much the trauma and the angst, but such a good read!!
Especially if you’re looking for something to read after Heated Rivalry, or just generally looking for something to read, in a reading slump, etc etc, can I recommend the Love on the Podium series; books will start releasing with this one from 19 Jan. Each book is set during the upcoming Winter Olympics, a queer romance where one or both MCs is an athlete competing.
💕 Ski-Crossed Lovers is one where both MMCs are ski cross athletes and BFFs / rivals-ish from Canada. I say rivals-ish, because while they are BFFs, they are competing against each other in the same sport. I enjoyed the flashbacks we get from when they first started out skiing, which sets the tone for their friendship, and then we get to see their relationship evolve.
👯While the focus of the story is on the MMCs, Cedric and Austin, I also enjoyed their interactions with the rest of Team Canada, their coaches, Tara the sponsorship / media liaison - cute cosy found family vibes.
Especially if you’re looking for something to read after Heated Rivalry, or just generally looking for something to read, in a reading slump, etc etc, can I recommend the Love on the Podium series; books will start releasing with this one from 19 Jan. Each book is set during the upcoming Winter Olympics, a queer romance where one or both MCs is an athlete competing.
💕 Ski-Crossed Lovers is one where both MMCs are ski cross athletes and BFFs / rivals-ish from Canada. I say rivals-ish, because while they are BFFs, they are competing against each other in the same sport. I enjoyed the flashbacks we get from when they first started out skiing, which sets the tone for their friendship, and then we get to see their relationship evolve.
👯While the focus of the story is on the MMCs, Cedric and Austin, I also enjoyed their interactions with the rest of Team Canada, their coaches, Tara the sponsorship / media liaison - cute cosy found family vibes.
January 19, 2026
This story took me by surprise with how emotional it became. What starts as a fast-paced sports romance quickly deepens into something far more heartfelt, blending adrenaline, friendship and unexpected love. The chemistry between Cedric and Austin feels effortless, shaped by years of shared ambition and trust, which makes their shift from friends to something more both believable and affecting.
The ski cross setting is brilliantly done, capturing the rush of competition as well as the crushing lows that come with it (even though i know nothing about skiing)!. When things take a devastating turn, the story doesn’t shy away from the fallout, allowing both characters the space to struggle, heal and grow. It’s intense, tender and ultimately hopeful, making it a rewarding read for anyone who enjoys emotionally driven sports romances.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
The ski cross setting is brilliantly done, capturing the rush of competition as well as the crushing lows that come with it (even though i know nothing about skiing)!. When things take a devastating turn, the story doesn’t shy away from the fallout, allowing both characters the space to struggle, heal and grow. It’s intense, tender and ultimately hopeful, making it a rewarding read for anyone who enjoys emotionally driven sports romances.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
January 26, 2026
Ski-Crossed Lovers completely swept me away.
Austin and Cedric’s best-friends-to-lovers journey is packed with intensity, yearning, and heart. The Olympic-level competition adds such a powerful edge, and Allison Temple absolutely nails the adrenaline of ski cross alongside the emotional highs and lows of their relationship.
When tragedy strikes, watching these two fight their way through grief, uncertainty, and unspoken feelings was genuinely moving. The amnesia-esque elements, the quiet longing, and the resilience they show—both on and off the slopes—hit hard in the best way. I laughed, teared up, and couldn’t stop rooting for them.
For a relatively short book, this packs a serious punch. The love story is beautiful, the sports scenes are gripping, and even the side characters are easy to fall for. If you love sports romance, Olympic vibes, and emotional depth, this one is a must-read. I can’t recommend it enough.
Austin and Cedric’s best-friends-to-lovers journey is packed with intensity, yearning, and heart. The Olympic-level competition adds such a powerful edge, and Allison Temple absolutely nails the adrenaline of ski cross alongside the emotional highs and lows of their relationship.
When tragedy strikes, watching these two fight their way through grief, uncertainty, and unspoken feelings was genuinely moving. The amnesia-esque elements, the quiet longing, and the resilience they show—both on and off the slopes—hit hard in the best way. I laughed, teared up, and couldn’t stop rooting for them.
For a relatively short book, this packs a serious punch. The love story is beautiful, the sports scenes are gripping, and even the side characters are easy to fall for. If you love sports romance, Olympic vibes, and emotional depth, this one is a must-read. I can’t recommend it enough.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story was very hard to put down and I read the entire thing in less than 24 hours. Cedric and Austin are the very best of friends and have been skiing together since they were children so there's serious chemistry between them right from the start. The entire story is told from Cedric's point of view except for a sort of "time lapse" chapter that's all news excerpts and does an excellent job of moving the story along. The pacing was solid throughout and there's a hefty does of hurt/comfort in this one (I'm pretty sure both of them had some trauma/PTSD they needed to work through). I frequently wanted to reach into the pages and give them both a hug so I was really pleased when they got their well earned happy ending. Definitely worth a read if you're looking for friends to lover with a good dose of hurt/comfort mixed in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Allison Temple continues to be a must-read author for me!
The spice comes fast and gets you absolutely hooked on the relationship between Cedric and Austin. By the time Austin's accident happens, my heart was racing! The fallout, after Austin has amnesia is so heartbreaking. You can absolutely feel how devastated Cedric is, and the effect it has on him in the aftermath.
I couldn't wait for them to come back together, and I think it happened at the perfect moment. Being patient pays off.
Do I know anything about ski cross? Nope. But the action scenes are so well-written that I feel like I'm going down the slopes with Cedric and Austin! I rooted for both of them to wind up on the podium with O, Canada blaring.
This book is a quick read and is perfect for fans of the hurt/comfort trope.
**I received this as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily**
The spice comes fast and gets you absolutely hooked on the relationship between Cedric and Austin. By the time Austin's accident happens, my heart was racing! The fallout, after Austin has amnesia is so heartbreaking. You can absolutely feel how devastated Cedric is, and the effect it has on him in the aftermath.
I couldn't wait for them to come back together, and I think it happened at the perfect moment. Being patient pays off.
Do I know anything about ski cross? Nope. But the action scenes are so well-written that I feel like I'm going down the slopes with Cedric and Austin! I rooted for both of them to wind up on the podium with O, Canada blaring.
This book is a quick read and is perfect for fans of the hurt/comfort trope.
**I received this as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily**
January 19, 2026
It’s not often you get friends to lovers times two with the same couple in the same book but we do in Ski-Crossed lovers and I absolutely love that for us. It features two best friends who honestly have no idea what to do with each other but also are absolutely in love with each other and practically made for each other. After an epic night where they finally figured it out, a ski accident leads to amnesia and a world of confusion about what exactly is the right thing to do regarding their friendship and what was thought to be the beginning of a romantic relationship. Add in the Olympics as the dramatic background for them to figure out what’s going on and it’s a romance story for the ages. I loved watching them figure out their relationship again while also batting for gold against each other. An awesome sports romance worth a read!
February 9, 2026
This is about Cedric and Austin, skiers who compete in ski cross and childhood best friends. Without spoiling things after a night of passion, there’s a mistake while racing that changes everything.
I always love the best friends to lovers trope and this did a great job with this. I loved Cedric and Austin together and their journey in this book! I will say there is some angst in the book but it’s still very try much a happy ending.
I also loved that it was skiers as this isn’t a common sport that’s written about. It was a good change of pace.
The only thing I would say is that I definitely wanted more of Cedric and Austin and would have loved it to be longer. But even with saying that I found the pacing was really good, especially for a novella.
A great read and perfect to read during the Olympics.
I always love the best friends to lovers trope and this did a great job with this. I loved Cedric and Austin together and their journey in this book! I will say there is some angst in the book but it’s still very try much a happy ending.
I also loved that it was skiers as this isn’t a common sport that’s written about. It was a good change of pace.
The only thing I would say is that I definitely wanted more of Cedric and Austin and would have loved it to be longer. But even with saying that I found the pacing was really good, especially for a novella.
A great read and perfect to read during the Olympics.
December 12, 2025
I inhaled this book in record time. And you will too. Come closer, let me tell you how it went.
I went in expecting a fluffy sports romance, left gobsmacked. Not only did I learn so much about ski-cross… Too much, might one say? Just kidding; I have ski trauma, and SPEAKING of trauma, THIS BOOK WAS FULL OF IT. I think I spent most of the book crying, and I say this WITH THE HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION. There was so much gd yearning, which is crack, but then there was also the friends-to-lovers-did-we-ruin-it, the I’m-so-fucked-up-I-can’t-breathe-without-him-and-I-don’t-realize-it, and we can’t forget the fact that we only had one POV just to make our agony complete.
First Allison Temple book. Will not be my last.
I went in expecting a fluffy sports romance, left gobsmacked. Not only did I learn so much about ski-cross… Too much, might one say? Just kidding; I have ski trauma, and SPEAKING of trauma, THIS BOOK WAS FULL OF IT. I think I spent most of the book crying, and I say this WITH THE HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION. There was so much gd yearning, which is crack, but then there was also the friends-to-lovers-did-we-ruin-it, the I’m-so-fucked-up-I-can’t-breathe-without-him-and-I-don’t-realize-it, and we can’t forget the fact that we only had one POV just to make our agony complete.
First Allison Temple book. Will not be my last.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've never practiced any winter sport, but I love the Winter Olympics, and when I found out this series is set during them this year, I got really excited.
Regarding the story, I really liked it. Childhood friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and here, combined with the fact that they're teammates and have always been pining for each other, ugh, it worked, and I liked it.
The tension created by Austin's recovery, Cedric's reaction to it and then the Olympics, gave it the perfect amount of angst. The fact that everyone seemed to sense the tension from the beginning and weren't surprised at all was both funny and comforting.
Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
Thanks to the author for the free Arc.
Regarding the story, I really liked it. Childhood friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and here, combined with the fact that they're teammates and have always been pining for each other, ugh, it worked, and I liked it.
The tension created by Austin's recovery, Cedric's reaction to it and then the Olympics, gave it the perfect amount of angst. The fact that everyone seemed to sense the tension from the beginning and weren't surprised at all was both funny and comforting.
Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
Thanks to the author for the free Arc.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cedric and Austin are teammates on the Canada mens ski crossed team with high olympic hopes. They've been inseparable since they were nine but never crossed the line into something more until the worst possible time and then everything changes.
I did not see this coming but I so loved it. I was ready for some teammate angst and friends to lovers but this was so much more, heartbreaking and hopeful at the same time. I won't ruin the story but make sure to check the TW. This story covers the craziest year of both of their lives and you really feel it the whole time all through the drama and training and ups and downs of competition and being on the world stage. Great spice and amazing storytelling!
I did not see this coming but I so loved it. I was ready for some teammate angst and friends to lovers but this was so much more, heartbreaking and hopeful at the same time. I won't ruin the story but make sure to check the TW. This story covers the craziest year of both of their lives and you really feel it the whole time all through the drama and training and ups and downs of competition and being on the world stage. Great spice and amazing storytelling!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Welcome to the "Love on the Podium" series, a collection of queer romances.
The first installment, "Ski Crossed Lovers," features Canadian ski cross athlete Cedric Bérard and his best friend Austin, both Olympic competitors. An unexpected encounter between Cedric and Austin leads them into unfamiliar emotional territory, challenging the boundaries of their relationship. When an accident occurs on the slopes, Cedric's future—as well as his relationship with Austin and their enduring friendship—faces significant uncertainty.
This story was exceptionally well written and truly captivating—definitely worth a chance. I received a complimentary copy of this book and am providing my honest review.
The first installment, "Ski Crossed Lovers," features Canadian ski cross athlete Cedric Bérard and his best friend Austin, both Olympic competitors. An unexpected encounter between Cedric and Austin leads them into unfamiliar emotional territory, challenging the boundaries of their relationship. When an accident occurs on the slopes, Cedric's future—as well as his relationship with Austin and their enduring friendship—faces significant uncertainty.
This story was exceptionally well written and truly captivating—definitely worth a chance. I received a complimentary copy of this book and am providing my honest review.
January 10, 2026
if you want a sweet little friends to lovers to friends(???) to lovers sports romance, then this is for you!! as someone who is not the biggest fan of this trope, there is a trope in here that is done very well and made me incredibly invested in the story and these characters. i enjoyed the different medias that was used during the time jump, but i realllllyyyy wanted cedric and austin’s pov during this year and it would have been the perfect opportunity to make them the mayors of yearning in the province of longing. i also think with the trope used, i really wish it was dual pov, but i really did enjoy cedric as a narrator
overall, this is such a good start to the love on the podium series and i can’t wait to continue!!! thank you so much to the author for allowing me to have an arc
overall, this is such a good start to the love on the podium series and i can’t wait to continue!!! thank you so much to the author for allowing me to have an arc
January 22, 2026
This was a fun read. The ski-cross and olympics details were incredibly well-done. I also enjoyed the single POV in this book - it would have taken some of the conflict or suspense out of the book to know what Austin was thinking.
The only flaw with this book is that it is too short. It isn't short enough to be a novella, but its close. Since it is so short, we don't get as much character development as I would have liked. I would have liked a bit more explanation or discussion about the 10 months that Austin and Cedric spent apart and how they reconcile. I also would have loved an epilogue - the ending felt rushed.
In any case, this book definitely scratched my winter Olympics MM romance itch in the best way.
The only flaw with this book is that it is too short. It isn't short enough to be a novella, but its close. Since it is so short, we don't get as much character development as I would have liked. I would have liked a bit more explanation or discussion about the 10 months that Austin and Cedric spent apart and how they reconcile. I also would have loved an epilogue - the ending felt rushed.
In any case, this book definitely scratched my winter Olympics MM romance itch in the best way.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Four and a half stars
SKI-CROSSED LOVERS by Allison Temple is part of the multi-author Love On The Podium series. Canadian ski cross racers Cedric Bérard and Austin Grimm are fierce competitors and best friends. One night, one true confession changes their relationship from friendship to so much more. And one moment changes their futures.
Allison Temple brings Cedric and Austin alive not only as elite athletes but also as friends trying to find themselves and affirm their feelings and what is truly important and vital. Ski-Crossed Lovers is a page-turning read that grips readers' emotions and brings the excitement of competition and romance to life. A terrific read.
SKI-CROSSED LOVERS by Allison Temple is part of the multi-author Love On The Podium series. Canadian ski cross racers Cedric Bérard and Austin Grimm are fierce competitors and best friends. One night, one true confession changes their relationship from friendship to so much more. And one moment changes their futures.
Allison Temple brings Cedric and Austin alive not only as elite athletes but also as friends trying to find themselves and affirm their feelings and what is truly important and vital. Ski-Crossed Lovers is a page-turning read that grips readers' emotions and brings the excitement of competition and romance to life. A terrific read.
January 21, 2026
Come on besties, it’s time for the Olympics ! 🌈
Ski-Crossed Lovers is an MM romance between two best friends at the Olympics.
Honestly this book and this series is the perfect read to get out of the Heated Rivalry slump haha, you got athletes, you got romance, you got the Olympics, and the best part ? They’re all queer 🌈
I’m absolutely obsessed with these books already and I’m so thankful for all the authors for the opportunity to read these ARCs, I’m having so much fun !!
Ski-Crossed Lovers is the perfect start to this series, it’s fast paced, it’s heartbreaking, it’s fun, it’s everything we want !!
Ski-Crossed Lovers is an MM romance between two best friends at the Olympics.
Honestly this book and this series is the perfect read to get out of the Heated Rivalry slump haha, you got athletes, you got romance, you got the Olympics, and the best part ? They’re all queer 🌈
I’m absolutely obsessed with these books already and I’m so thankful for all the authors for the opportunity to read these ARCs, I’m having so much fun !!
Ski-Crossed Lovers is the perfect start to this series, it’s fast paced, it’s heartbreaking, it’s fun, it’s everything we want !!
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