What do you think?
Rate this book
Love on the Ice #2
Kiss and Cry: Illustrated Hardcover Special Edition
Will figure skating enemies become lovers?
Henry
Everything comes easily for Theo Sullivan, whether it’s jumps or figure skating world titles. Everyone loves him—judges, fans, coaches.
I hate him.
Now he’s invaded my training center, and I have to see him every day as we prepare for the Olympics. I’m going to win gold if it’s the last thing I do. I’m going to beat him.
But the strangest thing is happening. I’m peeking under his happy-go-lucky exterior and discovering there’s more to Theo than I imagined.
This is a mistake. I can’t trust him.
I can’t be falling in love.
Theo
My mom’s convinced training with Henry Sakaguchi will distract me heading into the Olympics. No way—Henry’s epically boring and cold. He might as well be carved from ice.
But when I need help, he’s there. He tries to keep me at arm’s length, but it’s no use. He’s too kind. Too generous. He’s caring and gorgeous and hot, and I’ve never wanted anyone like this.
I might want Henry more than a gold medal.
Am I falling in love?
Kiss and Cry by Keira Andrews is a steamy gay sports romance featuring grumpy/sunshine opposites attracting, secretly soft-hearted boys, hurt/comfort, and of course a happy ending.
Henry
Everything comes easily for Theo Sullivan, whether it’s jumps or figure skating world titles. Everyone loves him—judges, fans, coaches.
I hate him.
Now he’s invaded my training center, and I have to see him every day as we prepare for the Olympics. I’m going to win gold if it’s the last thing I do. I’m going to beat him.
But the strangest thing is happening. I’m peeking under his happy-go-lucky exterior and discovering there’s more to Theo than I imagined.
This is a mistake. I can’t trust him.
I can’t be falling in love.
Theo
My mom’s convinced training with Henry Sakaguchi will distract me heading into the Olympics. No way—Henry’s epically boring and cold. He might as well be carved from ice.
But when I need help, he’s there. He tries to keep me at arm’s length, but it’s no use. He’s too kind. Too generous. He’s caring and gorgeous and hot, and I’ve never wanted anyone like this.
I might want Henry more than a gold medal.
Am I falling in love?
Kiss and Cry by Keira Andrews is a steamy gay sports romance featuring grumpy/sunshine opposites attracting, secretly soft-hearted boys, hurt/comfort, and of course a happy ending.
270 pages, Hardcover
First published January 6, 2022
283 people are currently reading
2613 people want to read
About the author
Keira Andrews
71 books3,082 followersKeira aims for the perfect mix of character, plot, and heat in her M/M romances. She writes everything from swashbuckling pirates to heartwarming holiday escapism. Her fave tropes are enemies to lovers, age gaps, forced proximity, and passionate virgins. Although she loves delicious angst along the way, Keira guarantees happy endings!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 619 reviews
January 10, 2022
~4.5~
If you like the enemies-to-lovers trope, this is the book for you. Henry and Theo aren't just figure skating competitors; they're also about as different as two people can be.
Henry is Canadian of Japanese descent. He's intense, disciplined, and serious, a true perfectionist. He works hard and wants - nay, needs - to win. To Henry, being the best is everything.
What irks Henry about Theo is that Theo is a slacker yet has still consistently beaten Henry at recent competitions.
Theo is charming and carefree. He's a bit lazy, but maybe that's because winning the gold has always been his demanding mother's dream, not his own.
Theo thinks Henry is uptight and boring, but he's also miffed that Henry doesn't like him and is determined to befriend his staid rival.
When Theo discovers a secret shame Henry has been carrying around for years, things explode. Henry isn't sure he can trust Theo, but Theo is determined to prove him wrong.
This is a slow-burn story with believable relationship development. Henry and Theo become friends first. Henry takes care of Theo, and Theo pushes Henry to have a little fun (like splurge on a cheat meal!).
While the relationship between the men is front and center, the author firmly sets the book in the world of competitive figure skating.
Keira Andrews is a big fan of and very knowledgeable about the sport. There are many descriptions of practices, scores, judges, and so on. I loved this because it made the book feel real.
And now for the winners!
The gold goes to:
- Theo and Henry for being such lovable MCs, not because they're perfect but because they're not
- Esmeralda the cat
- Manon and Bill, Theo and Henry's loving and ever patient coaches
- Ojiichan, Henry's sweet, crossword-loving grandfather
- The epilogue, which is swoony as hell
The silver goes to:
- Hannah Kwan, whom Henry unfairly avoids, even though he owes her big time
- Oxtail roti (I've never had it but desperately want to try it now)
The bronze goes to:
- Theo's mom ... actually, nah, she doesn't deserve a damn thing for being controlling, manipulative, and generally awful
P.S. While this book can be read as a standalone, I liked meeting Theo and Henry in Only One Bed.
If you like the enemies-to-lovers trope, this is the book for you. Henry and Theo aren't just figure skating competitors; they're also about as different as two people can be.
Henry is Canadian of Japanese descent. He's intense, disciplined, and serious, a true perfectionist. He works hard and wants - nay, needs - to win. To Henry, being the best is everything.
What irks Henry about Theo is that Theo is a slacker yet has still consistently beaten Henry at recent competitions.
Theo is charming and carefree. He's a bit lazy, but maybe that's because winning the gold has always been his demanding mother's dream, not his own.
Theo thinks Henry is uptight and boring, but he's also miffed that Henry doesn't like him and is determined to befriend his staid rival.
When Theo discovers a secret shame Henry has been carrying around for years, things explode. Henry isn't sure he can trust Theo, but Theo is determined to prove him wrong.
This is a slow-burn story with believable relationship development. Henry and Theo become friends first. Henry takes care of Theo, and Theo pushes Henry to have a little fun (like splurge on a cheat meal!).
While the relationship between the men is front and center, the author firmly sets the book in the world of competitive figure skating.
Keira Andrews is a big fan of and very knowledgeable about the sport. There are many descriptions of practices, scores, judges, and so on. I loved this because it made the book feel real.
And now for the winners!
The gold goes to:
- Theo and Henry for being such lovable MCs, not because they're perfect but because they're not
- Esmeralda the cat
- Manon and Bill, Theo and Henry's loving and ever patient coaches
- Ojiichan, Henry's sweet, crossword-loving grandfather
- The epilogue, which is swoony as hell
The silver goes to:
- Hannah Kwan, whom Henry unfairly avoids, even though he owes her big time
- Oxtail roti (I've never had it but desperately want to try it now)
The bronze goes to:
- Theo's mom ... actually, nah, she doesn't deserve a damn thing for being controlling, manipulative, and generally awful
P.S. While this book can be read as a standalone, I liked meeting Theo and Henry in Only One Bed.
January 19, 2022
I'm extremely pleased to report that Kiss and Cry was a winner, especially after I felt extremely meh about the prequel book, Only One Bed. Keira Andrews is one of my favorite authors, and she does a great job with this slow burn, enemies-to-lovers, figure skating romance.
I'm not a fangirl about figure skating, but I don't think you have to be to appreciate this story. It's about competition and drive and resentment, and I think it was really interesting to read about.
Henry isn't a character that I related to very quickly. He is quiet and keeps his feelings extremely locked down, even when we are in his head. I often think he was too harsh on Theo and not nearly as forthcoming as Theo deserved, but at the same time, I'm very happy that Keira Andrews gave us a different type of MC. Henry certainly doesn't feel like her characters from previous books, and I appreciated his originality. I do with he was a little more verbally expressive with Theo, but in the end I think they made a beautiful couple.
It was easier for me to connect with Theo, the chatterbox, ultra-high achieving athlete, but somewhat lackadaisical about skating. I loved how he was all in and took risks. Also, you will grow to despise his mom, which makes Theo's easygoing nature even more impressive.
I'm a glutton for a slow burn, so I didn't mind it here. I do with there was a little more emotion shown a little bit earlier on, but I think the pacing worked well with the plotline. The conflict of the story was also well executed.
I really enjoyed Kiss and Cry and the hottie figure skaters. While it won't rank up there amongst my favorite Keira Andrews (I think she writes older MCs even better than younger ones), I still think this book is a crowd-pleasing winner.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
I'm not a fangirl about figure skating, but I don't think you have to be to appreciate this story. It's about competition and drive and resentment, and I think it was really interesting to read about.
Henry isn't a character that I related to very quickly. He is quiet and keeps his feelings extremely locked down, even when we are in his head. I often think he was too harsh on Theo and not nearly as forthcoming as Theo deserved, but at the same time, I'm very happy that Keira Andrews gave us a different type of MC. Henry certainly doesn't feel like her characters from previous books, and I appreciated his originality. I do with he was a little more verbally expressive with Theo, but in the end I think they made a beautiful couple.
It was easier for me to connect with Theo, the chatterbox, ultra-high achieving athlete, but somewhat lackadaisical about skating. I loved how he was all in and took risks. Also, you will grow to despise his mom, which makes Theo's easygoing nature even more impressive.
I'm a glutton for a slow burn, so I didn't mind it here. I do with there was a little more emotion shown a little bit earlier on, but I think the pacing worked well with the plotline. The conflict of the story was also well executed.
I really enjoyed Kiss and Cry and the hottie figure skaters. While it won't rank up there amongst my favorite Keira Andrews (I think she writes older MCs even better than younger ones), I still think this book is a crowd-pleasing winner.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
Read
July 26, 2023SALE ALERT: through 07/30/23
$.99 for this enemies-to-lovers romance. Grab the Whispersynced audio by the amazing Greg Tremblay/Boudreaux!
My new slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers (with grudging, unexpected friendship along the way) is available now to buy or borrow in Kindle Unlimited at Amazon!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/32kzUSm
Amazon Universal: https://readerlinks.com/l/2198995
I was inspired to write Henry and Theo's story after the last world championships in Stockholm in March 2021. It was so wonderful to see a full competition again (even if there was no audience). Their romance ate my brain and demanded to be written. I hope you enjoy it!
$.99 for this enemies-to-lovers romance. Grab the Whispersynced audio by the amazing Greg Tremblay/Boudreaux!
My new slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers (with grudging, unexpected friendship along the way) is available now to buy or borrow in Kindle Unlimited at Amazon!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/32kzUSm
Amazon Universal: https://readerlinks.com/l/2198995
I was inspired to write Henry and Theo's story after the last world championships in Stockholm in March 2021. It was so wonderful to see a full competition again (even if there was no audience). Their romance ate my brain and demanded to be written. I hope you enjoy it!
February 22, 2026
Could there be a better time to finally dive into a figure skating romance set during the Olympics?? I DOUBT IT!
After watching all the figure skating content the past few weeks (Ilia 😭) I found myself so curious about the sport and itching to learn more about how it works behind the scenes - and this book satisfied that curiosity thoroughly! Watching and reading at the same time made me understand and appreciate the sport and what athletes go through to get to the Olympics even more!!
Our two MCs, Henry and Theo were compelling leads and their characterisation reminded me a bit of Shane and Ilya (hell yeah), especially in the beginning:
Henry is the uptight, hyper-dedicated, nutrition-and-training-obsessed athlete with a serious stick up his ass, while Theo is his easygoing, sunshine-y rival who doesn’t take anything too seriously but hides depth and pain beneath the surface.
And while I did like them individually, I didn’t really care too much about the romance, to be really honest. I just didn’t feel their chemistry and therefore was never really invested in their relationship. HOWEVER, the setting, the Olympic backdrop, Henry’s past, and Theo’s family dynamics absolutely had me hooked, which was more than enough to keep me engaged until the end!
So yeah, despite that part not fully working for me, I still had a really good time, not least thanks to Greg Boudreaux, who - as always - did a fantastic job narrating this!
After watching all the figure skating content the past few weeks (Ilia 😭) I found myself so curious about the sport and itching to learn more about how it works behind the scenes - and this book satisfied that curiosity thoroughly! Watching and reading at the same time made me understand and appreciate the sport and what athletes go through to get to the Olympics even more!!
Our two MCs, Henry and Theo were compelling leads and their characterisation reminded me a bit of Shane and Ilya (hell yeah), especially in the beginning:
Henry is the uptight, hyper-dedicated, nutrition-and-training-obsessed athlete with a serious stick up his ass, while Theo is his easygoing, sunshine-y rival who doesn’t take anything too seriously but hides depth and pain beneath the surface.
And while I did like them individually, I didn’t really care too much about the romance, to be really honest. I just didn’t feel their chemistry and therefore was never really invested in their relationship. HOWEVER, the setting, the Olympic backdrop, Henry’s past, and Theo’s family dynamics absolutely had me hooked, which was more than enough to keep me engaged until the end!
So yeah, despite that part not fully working for me, I still had a really good time, not least thanks to Greg Boudreaux, who - as always - did a fantastic job narrating this!
February 4, 2022
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
maybe
December 9, 2021If you realllllllly can't wait, you can find the blurb and cover for this book at the very end of book 1 in this series, "Only One Bed", and it sounds good. 😁
January 21, 2022
Axel, toe loop, flip, lutz, double, triple…*blink* I’m sorry, what? Let me try again. Passionate, rivalry, explosive, intimate, fierce, thrilling…*smile* Yeah, that’s more like it. That’s what this story was for me. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the skating but…*whispers* I don’t watch figure skating. I don’t know much about it. I know it’s cutthroat and requires solid dedication. I know it demands intense strength and training. I know it’s breathtaking to watch. But that’s about it. I read the prequel Only One Bed and found it delightful. And when I came across the intro to Kiss and Cry, I knew I had to read it immediately.
There’s a ton more skating here. It literally revolves around figure skating. Both Henry and Theo are skating stars. However, their success on the ice is where their similarities end. Theo is like a shaken bottle of soda. He is lively, bubbly, and spews a constant string of chatter. Henry is just the opposite; quiet, calm, and has a reputation for being as cold as the rink he glides on. Thrust them together to train for the most important event of their lives and you’re bound to have bitten lips and glistening eyes. I held on tight to every chapter and still almost fell out of my seat!
I always enjoy Keira’s smooth clean writing. Having both MCs briefly introduced in Henry’s brother’s story was the perfect hook. I couldn’t wait to meet these two sparkling polar opposites. First, we have Theodore. It’s easy to fall for Theo’s charm. He is fun and brightens the pages with his sunny personality. He skates with the same lightness that lifts him outside of the rink. When his coach becomes ill and his overbearing mother pushes him to the edge, he pounces on the opportunity to train with another skater. Not just any skater, Henry Sakaguchi to be exact.
Henry is everything Theo is not. Skating doesn’t just dominate his life, flawless skating does. He’s a perfectionist and obsesses over every detail. He has one goal and it’s standing on the top pier with priceless gold shimmering around his neck. He has plenty of self-discipline but sorely lacks confidence. Tussling with the best of the best comes with excitement, anxiety, and excessive pressure. Henry has prepped for this moment and is ready for whatever comes his way. Or so he thought!
Theo and Henry surprisingly find common ground and can’t fight nor deny their sizzling attraction. Henry is a professional skater but an amateur in the bedroom. Theo is more than happy to enlighten him on such skills. They agree to silence the elephant in the room and enjoy each other’s company. Until it’s time to lace up their skates in the Olympic training center, the games don’t exist. As long as they don’t fall…on the ice or in love everything will be fine. Because in the end, there is only one winner…or is there?
Beware of: Masks are often worn to guard and protect. They glide, fly, and fall. Dreams are made, shattered, and shared.
This book is for: If you dig opposites attract and enemies to lovers, you won’t be disappointed with this icy clash and dash for the ultimate prize.
Book UNfunk
There’s a ton more skating here. It literally revolves around figure skating. Both Henry and Theo are skating stars. However, their success on the ice is where their similarities end. Theo is like a shaken bottle of soda. He is lively, bubbly, and spews a constant string of chatter. Henry is just the opposite; quiet, calm, and has a reputation for being as cold as the rink he glides on. Thrust them together to train for the most important event of their lives and you’re bound to have bitten lips and glistening eyes. I held on tight to every chapter and still almost fell out of my seat!
I always enjoy Keira’s smooth clean writing. Having both MCs briefly introduced in Henry’s brother’s story was the perfect hook. I couldn’t wait to meet these two sparkling polar opposites. First, we have Theodore. It’s easy to fall for Theo’s charm. He is fun and brightens the pages with his sunny personality. He skates with the same lightness that lifts him outside of the rink. When his coach becomes ill and his overbearing mother pushes him to the edge, he pounces on the opportunity to train with another skater. Not just any skater, Henry Sakaguchi to be exact.
Henry is everything Theo is not. Skating doesn’t just dominate his life, flawless skating does. He’s a perfectionist and obsesses over every detail. He has one goal and it’s standing on the top pier with priceless gold shimmering around his neck. He has plenty of self-discipline but sorely lacks confidence. Tussling with the best of the best comes with excitement, anxiety, and excessive pressure. Henry has prepped for this moment and is ready for whatever comes his way. Or so he thought!
Theo and Henry surprisingly find common ground and can’t fight nor deny their sizzling attraction. Henry is a professional skater but an amateur in the bedroom. Theo is more than happy to enlighten him on such skills. They agree to silence the elephant in the room and enjoy each other’s company. Until it’s time to lace up their skates in the Olympic training center, the games don’t exist. As long as they don’t fall…on the ice or in love everything will be fine. Because in the end, there is only one winner…or is there?
Beware of: Masks are often worn to guard and protect. They glide, fly, and fall. Dreams are made, shattered, and shared.
This book is for: If you dig opposites attract and enemies to lovers, you won’t be disappointed with this icy clash and dash for the ultimate prize.
Book UNfunk
January 22, 2022
WARNING: minority opinion!!
The short of it:
1st Half - read like a YA with very young sounding characters emoting all over the place. Cute-like and all. SLOW BURN.
2nd Half - once they got busy in the bedroom, the MC’s started
To sound a bit more mature, but not by much.
The two halves made it feel as if these were two different books. One a YA novel that should have been a comic. The other a sex fest with some skating and minor conflict for plot’s sake.
This enemies to lovers/opposites attract book should have been a winner, but it was an inconsistent performance with more lows than highs for me.
The short of it:
1st Half - read like a YA with very young sounding characters emoting all over the place. Cute-like and all. SLOW BURN.
2nd Half - once they got busy in the bedroom, the MC’s started
To sound a bit more mature, but not by much.
The two halves made it feel as if these were two different books. One a YA novel that should have been a comic. The other a sex fest with some skating and minor conflict for plot’s sake.
This enemies to lovers/opposites attract book should have been a winner, but it was an inconsistent performance with more lows than highs for me.
February 12, 2022
6.0 for the Executed Element aka audiobook
3.5 for the Technical Element aka story
3.5 for the Technical Element aka story
January 16, 2022
4,5 stars
First class contemporary romance.
I loved it.
Henry is shy, introvert and highly dedicated to skating and winning. He’s a guy who’s 100% focused on what he wants to achieve … an Olympic gold medal (or any medal, indeed!)
Theo is outgoing, not half as disciplined as Henry and still keeps winning all those medals! But then he’s got to deal with a mother that still tries to dominate him at an age of 25. No wonder he feels rebellious!
I have always enjoyed figure skating, and even though I’m not up to date with the latest developments I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies-to-lovers romance in the world of high-level skating. Both main characters are lovable in their own right, and I totally rooted for each of them.
The pull and push between these two – one so dedicated to his sport, the other more or less winning by genetic favours (well, let’s be realistic – Theo must be doing something right on top of that to win all those medals, and it's not only that he can do all those quadruple jumps!) – is fabulously written. The UST is wonderful and their relationship development so cute and sigh-worthy.
Loved the tension heading towards the Olympics when these two skate for the same medal. Who is going to take the prize, and what will it do to their relationship?
This was lovely in all the right places!
First class contemporary romance.
I loved it.
Henry is shy, introvert and highly dedicated to skating and winning. He’s a guy who’s 100% focused on what he wants to achieve … an Olympic gold medal (or any medal, indeed!)
Theo is outgoing, not half as disciplined as Henry and still keeps winning all those medals! But then he’s got to deal with a mother that still tries to dominate him at an age of 25. No wonder he feels rebellious!
I have always enjoyed figure skating, and even though I’m not up to date with the latest developments I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies-to-lovers romance in the world of high-level skating. Both main characters are lovable in their own right, and I totally rooted for each of them.
The pull and push between these two – one so dedicated to his sport, the other more or less winning by genetic favours (well, let’s be realistic – Theo must be doing something right on top of that to win all those medals, and it's not only that he can do all those quadruple jumps!) – is fabulously written. The UST is wonderful and their relationship development so cute and sigh-worthy.
Loved the tension heading towards the Olympics when these two skate for the same medal. Who is going to take the prize, and what will it do to their relationship?
This was lovely in all the right places!
March 27, 2022
had a few nitpicky issues with the story but mostly really enjoyed this. it was definitely an improvement over the first book in the series and was more in line with what i’ve come to expect from a Keira Andrews book.
Theo was a bit much at times and he took a bit of time to grow on me, but Henry was fantastic from page one. really liked his character, and his subtle growth throughout the story was very satisfying to witness. they worked well together and their contrasting personalities definitely made the slow burn of their (kinda sorta) enemies-to-lovers relationship all the more enticing for me.
4 stars.
Theo was a bit much at times and he took a bit of time to grow on me, but Henry was fantastic from page one. really liked his character, and his subtle growth throughout the story was very satisfying to witness. they worked well together and their contrasting personalities definitely made the slow burn of their (kinda sorta) enemies-to-lovers relationship all the more enticing for me.
4 stars.
November 14, 2022
3.5*** stars
If it wasn’t for Greg B’s audio performance I probably would’ve dnf’d. I liked the figure skating setting and that it was a nicely done rivals-to-lovers. Unfortunately the pace was relatively slow and I got pretty bored a few times.
I liked the main characters, Henry & Theo, tho but all in all it was not very memorable.
“Want me to put on my silver medal while I pleasure the champion?”
If it wasn’t for Greg B’s audio performance I probably would’ve dnf’d. I liked the figure skating setting and that it was a nicely done rivals-to-lovers. Unfortunately the pace was relatively slow and I got pretty bored a few times.
I liked the main characters, Henry & Theo, tho but all in all it was not very memorable.
January 10, 2022
This book follows two rivals in the figure skating competition.
What I liked:
Sweet
Slow burn
Good communication
Lovable characters
Great Steam
What I didn't like:
I didn't really believe the romance between the two MCs.
The slow burn got to be too much towards the end.
What I liked:
Sweet
Slow burn
Good communication
Lovable characters
Great Steam
What I didn't like:
I didn't really believe the romance between the two MCs.
The slow burn got to be too much towards the end.
January 11, 2022
This was stinking adorable, I enjoyed this so much.
Henry is 24, very serious about skating, and rarely talks. He's quiet, intense and dedicated to his sport.
Theo is 25, really loves to skate, but doesn't take it as seriously as Henry does, and is loud, talkative, and has a more live and let live attitude about his sport.
They're pretty much totally opposites, and shouldn't work together, but they do. At first, they dislike each other, and Henry thinks he hates Theo. (When in reality he doesn't truly know him.)
To Henry, skating is life. It's everything. To Theo, it's a big part, but it's a job first a foremost. Something to enjoy and have fun with, otherwise what's the point?
He thought Henry was just boring, but Henry hated Theo and how he didn't take the sport as seriously as he did, and yet he seemed to win so easily with natural talent and charm.
When Theo's coach has cancer, Theo moves to Toronto from LA where Henry is to be coached under Bill and Manon, who are also Henry's coaches.
Theo is so sweet, kind and effervescent, that over time, he starts to break through those walls Henry has. Because almost 4 years prior, Henry was hurt by someone, and it is hard for him trust and open up.
But Theo starts to wear him down with his kindness, and constant talking about everyone and everything. Henry starts to get to know the real Theo that way. And Theo learns about Henry, too. Henry rarely ever talks, but when he does talk it matters, and his actions speak loud too. He is kind in his own way, and underneath the intensity is someone wanting to be loved, but who is scared to let down his walls.
I loved the slow burn between these two. Henry is a tough nut to crack, so it needed some time before these two went there. But once they did, it was great. I loved their chemistry together. And Henry not wanting to kiss at first...well it just made when he did finally kiss Theo all the hotter and passionate.
It took Henry a while to trust, and there was a bump in the road near the end, but Theo just showed how genuine and truly kind he was, and Henry eventually couldn't pretend he wasn't head over heels in love with Theo anymore.
I just enjoyed these two together so much. The contrast to their personalities and how well they worked together anyway.
I definitely recommend this. It's a fun, sweet, adorable story about two guys who start out as rivals and slowly become friends, to best friends, to head over heels in love. A definite win for me overall.
Two big thumbs up from me!😘
Henry is 24, very serious about skating, and rarely talks. He's quiet, intense and dedicated to his sport.
Theo is 25, really loves to skate, but doesn't take it as seriously as Henry does, and is loud, talkative, and has a more live and let live attitude about his sport.
They're pretty much totally opposites, and shouldn't work together, but they do. At first, they dislike each other, and Henry thinks he hates Theo. (When in reality he doesn't truly know him.)
To Henry, skating is life. It's everything. To Theo, it's a big part, but it's a job first a foremost. Something to enjoy and have fun with, otherwise what's the point?
He thought Henry was just boring, but Henry hated Theo and how he didn't take the sport as seriously as he did, and yet he seemed to win so easily with natural talent and charm.
When Theo's coach has cancer, Theo moves to Toronto from LA where Henry is to be coached under Bill and Manon, who are also Henry's coaches.
Theo is so sweet, kind and effervescent, that over time, he starts to break through those walls Henry has. Because almost 4 years prior, Henry was hurt by someone, and it is hard for him trust and open up.
But Theo starts to wear him down with his kindness, and constant talking about everyone and everything. Henry starts to get to know the real Theo that way. And Theo learns about Henry, too. Henry rarely ever talks, but when he does talk it matters, and his actions speak loud too. He is kind in his own way, and underneath the intensity is someone wanting to be loved, but who is scared to let down his walls.
I loved the slow burn between these two. Henry is a tough nut to crack, so it needed some time before these two went there. But once they did, it was great. I loved their chemistry together. And Henry not wanting to kiss at first...well it just made when he did finally kiss Theo all the hotter and passionate.
It took Henry a while to trust, and there was a bump in the road near the end, but Theo just showed how genuine and truly kind he was, and Henry eventually couldn't pretend he wasn't head over heels in love with Theo anymore.
I just enjoyed these two together so much. The contrast to their personalities and how well they worked together anyway.
I definitely recommend this. It's a fun, sweet, adorable story about two guys who start out as rivals and slowly become friends, to best friends, to head over heels in love. A definite win for me overall.
Two big thumbs up from me!😘
January 16, 2022
4 Stars!! ❤️ A really great enemies-to-friends-to-lovers story with the backdrop of the competitive world of figure skating. ❄️ Both MCs were likable and relatable and the slow-burn was steamy.. 😍
Highly recommended as a low angst M/M romance full of sweet and goodness 💓
Highly recommended as a low angst M/M romance full of sweet and goodness 💓
April 4, 2022
All my life I've been waiting for a MM romance between two figure skaters. Kiss and Cry not only fulfilled my expectations, but exceeded them with characters that are not what they seem at first sight.
The blurb promises you an enemies to lovers, grumpy-sunshine romance, yet it ends up being more a friends to lovers that happened to be rivals on the ice. I was really happy with the development, because I loved how they supported and balanced each other.
Theo is a ray of light who melts Henry’s walls with his bright smile. Behind the cold facade, Henry is a caring, loyal and sensitive boy who is afraid of getting hurt again. But Henry is the only one that can see Theo’s hidden struggles: a controlling mother who made his childhood hell and the sadness because his coach is dying. The way he treated Theo, and how much Theo appreciated him for that, is the most powerful kind of love.
The blurb promises you an enemies to lovers, grumpy-sunshine romance, yet it ends up being more a friends to lovers that happened to be rivals on the ice. I was really happy with the development, because I loved how they supported and balanced each other.
Theo is a ray of light who melts Henry’s walls with his bright smile. Behind the cold facade, Henry is a caring, loyal and sensitive boy who is afraid of getting hurt again. But Henry is the only one that can see Theo’s hidden struggles: a controlling mother who made his childhood hell and the sadness because his coach is dying. The way he treated Theo, and how much Theo appreciated him for that, is the most powerful kind of love.
December 31, 2021
Theo’s conversations with his mother I could
have done without. UGH. She was a HORRIBLE person. She was a banshee. It was very tedious and monotonous.
Henry strives to be perfect in all things but he should know by now that nobody is perfect. It’s an unattainable goal and stop it.
21% in and Henry and Theo have exchanged maybe 5 words with each other. This is a bit troublesome since it is a LOVE story featuring THEM. Slow going…
44% and they actually said full sentences to one another BUT not a paragraph. Ugh.
They need to kiss or something already.
55% and Henry is still pretty unlikeable.
66% they finally kiss. With a book with kiss in the title, you would think there would be more of it.
76% and we still do not know what happened between Henry and Anton. We are running out of roadway. Get to it already.
81% we find out and it’s bad. Really bad. I’m heart broken for Henry. I guess that’s a good plot ploy to make you empathize with your MC.
We get to the end. One of the I love you’s is off page which is so bizarre. Much like this book. SO bizarre.
Like WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT. 🙄🙄🙄🙄
The HEA is nice but I expected more. I don’t think I can read this author again. Not for me. Slow as molasses pacing and has a hard time advancing the story. It made it VERY boring in large sections of the book. Meh, no. Safeword Torino.
have done without. UGH. She was a HORRIBLE person. She was a banshee. It was very tedious and monotonous.
Henry strives to be perfect in all things but he should know by now that nobody is perfect. It’s an unattainable goal and stop it.
21% in and Henry and Theo have exchanged maybe 5 words with each other. This is a bit troublesome since it is a LOVE story featuring THEM. Slow going…
44% and they actually said full sentences to one another BUT not a paragraph. Ugh.
They need to kiss or something already.
55% and Henry is still pretty unlikeable.
66% they finally kiss. With a book with kiss in the title, you would think there would be more of it.
76% and we still do not know what happened between Henry and Anton. We are running out of roadway. Get to it already.
81% we find out and it’s bad. Really bad. I’m heart broken for Henry. I guess that’s a good plot ploy to make you empathize with your MC.
We get to the end. One of the I love you’s is off page which is so bizarre. Much like this book. SO bizarre.
Like WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT. 🙄🙄🙄🙄
The HEA is nice but I expected more. I don’t think I can read this author again. Not for me. Slow as molasses pacing and has a hard time advancing the story. It made it VERY boring in large sections of the book. Meh, no. Safeword Torino.
April 3, 2025
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
This was really good! Keira Andrews can be hit and miss for me, but when it’s a hit it’s usually pretty great. I was dying for a book with figure skaters and this was perfect. It had a really good balance of sports v romance. My biggest issue with sports romances is that it’s usually too light on actual sports, so I really enjoyed this.
It’s a mostly one-sided enemies/rivals to lovers where both MCs think they know everything about the other, and it takes some forced proximity for them to see that it’s not as simple as ‘cold and emotionless robot’ and ‘lazy, uninspired party boy’. I thought their relationship was really sweet, even if it was a bit frustrating at times to wait for a conversation about it being more than just sex.
Can recommend if you enjoy these tropes.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
One-sided enemies to lovers
Slow burn
Figure skaters
Sports romance
Forced proximity
Set in Canada
Rivals to lovers
Training for the Olympics
Cat dad
Canadian x American
Short kings
Feels like YA
Dirty talk
Secret relationship
Public bathroom sex
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mention of MC’s former coach diagnosed with cancer
On-page intoxication
Vomiting
Mention of parent controlling MC’s eating (past)
Death of MC’s former coach (close friend)
Alcohol consumption
Explicit sexual content
Public sex — rink and bathroom
Disordered relationship with food
Details of MC being seduced as a bet in the past
MC being photographed nude against will post-sex (past)
Abusive, manipulative and controlling parent
Mention of death of grandparent (past)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Almost
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Sports romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 24 and 25
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 260
Happy ending: Yes
He bit his lip endearingly. “We’re together, right? Exclusive?” “Mm.” “Cool.” His face flushed, and he grinned. “That’s awesome. And I know we’re still young, but I love you, and I love being with you. I don’t want anyone else. I don’t miss partying. I want to be with you and Esmeralda—and do you think we should move in together? I think so. I practically already live with you, and when you know, you know. But I’m probably jumping the gun. It’s not like we’re married.” Easing closer, I met his lips and said simply, “Not yet.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This was really good! Keira Andrews can be hit and miss for me, but when it’s a hit it’s usually pretty great. I was dying for a book with figure skaters and this was perfect. It had a really good balance of sports v romance. My biggest issue with sports romances is that it’s usually too light on actual sports, so I really enjoyed this.
It’s a mostly one-sided enemies/rivals to lovers where both MCs think they know everything about the other, and it takes some forced proximity for them to see that it’s not as simple as ‘cold and emotionless robot’ and ‘lazy, uninspired party boy’. I thought their relationship was really sweet, even if it was a bit frustrating at times to wait for a conversation about it being more than just sex.
Can recommend if you enjoy these tropes.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
One-sided enemies to lovers
Slow burn
Figure skaters
Sports romance
Forced proximity
Set in Canada
Rivals to lovers
Training for the Olympics
Cat dad
Canadian x American
Short kings
Feels like YA
Dirty talk
Secret relationship
Public bathroom sex
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mention of MC’s former coach diagnosed with cancer
On-page intoxication
Vomiting
Mention of parent controlling MC’s eating (past)
Death of MC’s former coach (close friend)
Alcohol consumption
Explicit sexual content
Public sex — rink and bathroom
Disordered relationship with food
Details of MC being seduced as a bet in the past
MC being photographed nude against will post-sex (past)
Abusive, manipulative and controlling parent
Mention of death of grandparent (past)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Almost
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Sports romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 24 and 25
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 260
Happy ending: Yes
He bit his lip endearingly. “We’re together, right? Exclusive?” “Mm.” “Cool.” His face flushed, and he grinned. “That’s awesome. And I know we’re still young, but I love you, and I love being with you. I don’t want anyone else. I don’t miss partying. I want to be with you and Esmeralda—and do you think we should move in together? I think so. I practically already live with you, and when you know, you know. But I’m probably jumping the gun. It’s not like we’re married.” Easing closer, I met his lips and said simply, “Not yet.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
January 11, 2022
4 solid stars
Henry and Theo have competed against eachother for years.
Henry is disciplined and a perfectionist.
Theo is a natural talent that seems to always come on top in the competition.
Henry's family is supportive of his skating but doesn't force him to skate. It's Henry's choice.
Theo has a mother who is constantly getting on him about his skating, his diet and his discipline.
The two are forced to work in the same facility with the same coaches after Theo's former coach becomes ill.
At first, Henry still holds onto his hatred to Theo. But practicing in the same facility and living in the same condos the close proximity has them interacting more. This leads the two of them to slowly get to know one another more.
They build a friendship of shared meals and movie nights.
Things between them heat up and become physical. But they keep what's going between them private. They're supposed to be enemies after all.
This is a slow burn but well worth it.
I really enjoyed this.
Henry and Theo have competed against eachother for years.
Henry is disciplined and a perfectionist.
Theo is a natural talent that seems to always come on top in the competition.
Henry's family is supportive of his skating but doesn't force him to skate. It's Henry's choice.
Theo has a mother who is constantly getting on him about his skating, his diet and his discipline.
The two are forced to work in the same facility with the same coaches after Theo's former coach becomes ill.
At first, Henry still holds onto his hatred to Theo. But practicing in the same facility and living in the same condos the close proximity has them interacting more. This leads the two of them to slowly get to know one another more.
They build a friendship of shared meals and movie nights.
Things between them heat up and become physical. But they keep what's going between them private. They're supposed to be enemies after all.
This is a slow burn but well worth it.
I really enjoyed this.
January 30, 2023
Reread/Relisten #1 January 2023
Upping my rating to 4 stars, I loved this more the second time around.
Henry and Theo 🥰 they were great together and they had the good transition of enemies to friends to lovers.
Greg B always killing it with the narrations!
3 stars: January 2022
It was cute, a pretty good enemies to lovers.
The reason I one clicked so fast was because of Greg Boudreaux’s narration haha, but I feel like this one is a tad forgettable.
If you are wanting an enemies to friends to lovers, with Olympic ice skaters I recommend.
Upping my rating to 4 stars, I loved this more the second time around.
Henry and Theo 🥰 they were great together and they had the good transition of enemies to friends to lovers.
Greg B always killing it with the narrations!
3 stars: January 2022
It was cute, a pretty good enemies to lovers.
The reason I one clicked so fast was because of Greg Boudreaux’s narration haha, but I feel like this one is a tad forgettable.
If you are wanting an enemies to friends to lovers, with Olympic ice skaters I recommend.
January 4, 2022
A true story of enemies to lovers and opposites attract.
Henry and Theo are as different as night and day. Henry needs to win and be the best but is consistently upstaged by his devil may care competitor Theodore. When the two start to train together, they both begin to see other sides of the other.
Highlights:
•Slow burn
•Defensive walls crumbling
•Relationship development
•Tentative friends to lovers
•Sports Romance
•Hurt/Comfort/Healing
•Opposites attract
•The side characters
•AND THE EPILOGUE = ♥
Quick note: I despised Theo's mom like I hate that biatch. She put a slight damper on the book. It was too much. What a c*nt- and I don't use that word lightly.
All in all, Kiss & Cry is a beautiful story! Highly recommend it.
4.5 Stars
February 9, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. The rivalry between Theo and Henry was believable in a way sports romance doesn't always get right. They are both the No. 1 skater in their country and fighting continuously for gold through the years.
After a somewhat traumatic event in Henry's personal life a couple of years back, he left Vancouver and his family to move to Toronto to train and achieve his dream of becoming an Olympic gold medallist. Theo has been training in California, but suddenly, he has to move coaches and ends up training alongside Henry.
Of course, there is some push and pull while Theo and Henry realized that their opinions on the other ones were maybe a bit biased, influenced by the competitiveness of the sport, and little by little, they form a somewhat tenuous friendship that evolves into something more caring.
There is some drama surrounding Theo's obnoxious mom, and I would have wished there had been a reckoning for her, but alas, we can't have it all.
Hated the cover, but I had to give it a go; it's Olympic season after all!
After a somewhat traumatic event in Henry's personal life a couple of years back, he left Vancouver and his family to move to Toronto to train and achieve his dream of becoming an Olympic gold medallist. Theo has been training in California, but suddenly, he has to move coaches and ends up training alongside Henry.
Of course, there is some push and pull while Theo and Henry realized that their opinions on the other ones were maybe a bit biased, influenced by the competitiveness of the sport, and little by little, they form a somewhat tenuous friendship that evolves into something more caring.
There is some drama surrounding Theo's obnoxious mom, and I would have wished there had been a reckoning for her, but alas, we can't have it all.
Hated the cover, but I had to give it a go; it's Olympic season after all!
February 2, 2026
If you, like me, are still trying to get over the Heated Rivalry TV show, I have something that might heal you. Rivals to lovers FIGURE SKATING?! OMG Kiss and Cry is DELIGHTFUL, two skaters who seem like total opposites but have so much more in common than they realize, Henry and Theo are SO endearing and I’m OBSESSED. All the caretaking, hurt/comfort, and skating vibes you could want, the perfect winter read (or anytime really)!
Despite all of the parallels to HR, in Kiss and Cry both characters are out gay men, so the central conflict is significantly different. They are also ACTUALLY rivals - they are constantly competing and being judged in comparison to each - which made the story really fun to read. I LOVED Theo, especially when he literally cannot stop talking. No wonder Henry (eventually) finds him so endearing.
I listened to this as an audiobook and Greg Boudreaux does an INCREDIBLE job. Highly recommend getting this one on your TBR, you won't regret it however you read it! And with the Winter Olympics coming soon, it's a great time to immerse yourself in some winter sports reads.
Despite all of the parallels to HR, in Kiss and Cry both characters are out gay men, so the central conflict is significantly different. They are also ACTUALLY rivals - they are constantly competing and being judged in comparison to each - which made the story really fun to read. I LOVED Theo, especially when he literally cannot stop talking. No wonder Henry (eventually) finds him so endearing.
I listened to this as an audiobook and Greg Boudreaux does an INCREDIBLE job. Highly recommend getting this one on your TBR, you won't regret it however you read it! And with the Winter Olympics coming soon, it's a great time to immerse yourself in some winter sports reads.
January 10, 2022
I struggled with it at times, but in the end it was worth it.
There are basically two reasons I didn't like it more (and I really wanted to love it):
1. Too much sports talk. While I know what I'm getting into when reading a sports romance, and I do appreciate if an author is well informed about what he or she writes, it was a bit too much of it. I really love figure skating, but I'm not that invested in all the different jumps and what is considered difficult and what not.
2. It felt drawn out at times
Other than that, I really liked both Henry, the Canadian champion, and Theo, his American counterpart. Henry is an introvert, and somewhat of a control freak, trying to cover up whatever insecurities he has. Whereas Theo is a bubbly, cheery guy who turns out to be just the balance Henry needs in his life (and viceversa). Yes, Theo talks a lot, but I loved how persistent he was, and how he chipped away at Henry's armour.
I loved both characters, and their relationship felt organic and believable. And I really liked how the author managed to peel away the layers both Henry and Theo have wrapped around themselves.
All in all a good, but not perfect book -3.5 stars rounded up because I loved the ending :)
There are basically two reasons I didn't like it more (and I really wanted to love it):
1. Too much sports talk. While I know what I'm getting into when reading a sports romance, and I do appreciate if an author is well informed about what he or she writes, it was a bit too much of it. I really love figure skating, but I'm not that invested in all the different jumps and what is considered difficult and what not.
2. It felt drawn out at times
Other than that, I really liked both Henry, the Canadian champion, and Theo, his American counterpart. Henry is an introvert, and somewhat of a control freak, trying to cover up whatever insecurities he has. Whereas Theo is a bubbly, cheery guy who turns out to be just the balance Henry needs in his life (and viceversa). Yes, Theo talks a lot, but I loved how persistent he was, and how he chipped away at Henry's armour.
I loved both characters, and their relationship felt organic and believable. And I really liked how the author managed to peel away the layers both Henry and Theo have wrapped around themselves.
All in all a good, but not perfect book -3.5 stars rounded up because I loved the ending :)
January 12, 2022
amazing.
I just couldn’t put this book down. Loved every moment of it. Highly recommended. Figure skating. Olympics. Plus a wonderful happy ever after.
I just couldn’t put this book down. Loved every moment of it. Highly recommended. Figure skating. Olympics. Plus a wonderful happy ever after.
February 1, 2022
* 4.25 Stars*
MM-Romance, Contemporary, Athletes, Enemies-to-Lovers, Low Angst, Med Heat
I enjoyed this, and as my rating reflects my love for Keira Andrews's work, I'm going to vent for a second. Every time I read a Keira Andrews romance novel, I gush, smile, fall in love with the MCs and float away on a happy cloud when she hands me a beautiful HEA. However, it takes me multiple glances at the blurb, grumbling at the book cover, hesitating over reviews before I take the plunge. I don't know if it's just me and my prickly nature, and I don't enjoy hating on someones hard work, but art is subjective, and the artists of her book cover well, their work doesn't appeal to me and even deters me until I can remind myself that I love Keira Andrews work. I feel silly being so affected by a book cover design.
Anyhow, happy thoughts now. I love the MCs and their dynamic. The quiet, serious, meticulous character falls for the charismatic, easy-going, and somewhat flaky personality. Loved it! They were adorable together, definitely recommend!
MM-Romance, Contemporary, Athletes, Enemies-to-Lovers, Low Angst, Med Heat
I enjoyed this, and as my rating reflects my love for Keira Andrews's work, I'm going to vent for a second. Every time I read a Keira Andrews romance novel, I gush, smile, fall in love with the MCs and float away on a happy cloud when she hands me a beautiful HEA. However, it takes me multiple glances at the blurb, grumbling at the book cover, hesitating over reviews before I take the plunge. I don't know if it's just me and my prickly nature, and I don't enjoy hating on someones hard work, but art is subjective, and the artists of her book cover well, their work doesn't appeal to me and even deters me until I can remind myself that I love Keira Andrews work. I feel silly being so affected by a book cover design.
Anyhow, happy thoughts now. I love the MCs and their dynamic. The quiet, serious, meticulous character falls for the charismatic, easy-going, and somewhat flaky personality. Loved it! They were adorable together, definitely recommend!
March 13, 2024
Re-read
Well. I'm definitely rounding down this rating. It's going from 5⭐ to a very strong 3.75⭐.
I expected a little more to be said about Henry and Theo's future together. The story jumps over 7 years with almost nothing said in between. Somehow I feel like the story wasn't developed enough for my liking, but I'll round it up simply for the characters and the setting.
I liked both Theo and Henry, although Theo was often portrayed as a dumb guy, when he really wasn't. Theo's had a difficult past and it didn't get any epilogue, the only resolve was his mother backing down a bit. What Theo went through deserved some serious attention.
Henry is still a character I like very much, a total introvert with his fluffy cat, this guy can cook and is great in bed. I mean, who doesn't love Henry? I definitely do.
"The thought of the Olympics made my stomach swoop. Here I was with my biggest rival for gold, sharing a meal and wearing his PJs while his cat rubbed against our ankles. I could imagine my mother’s fury at my softness and how shocked our competitors and everyone else would be if they could see us now."
A sweet, funny story with some steam - very good if you're a fan of the sport and not a very demanding reader.
_____________________________________
Original review on 6-August-2022
5⭐
I loved this book!
This wonderful, beautiful story is mostly about two competitive, elite ice skaters and rivals who unexpectedly become lovers.
🔵 Rivals to lovers
🟢 Grumpy/sunshine
🟡 Both gay
🟠 An inside look into professional ice skating
🟣 Endearing main characters
🌶️ Good smut, some off-page, virgin; t/b mostly but ending with both vers
Henry is a 23- year old professional ice skater who's has had quite the career and wants to win gold at the Olympics. He has a big, supportive family and lives alone, has no pressure about competing and is a really hard worker.
He's also very held back, cold and likes to be by himself, so when his biggest rival on ice - Theo, an American, a natural talent, who's the current world champion - moves to Canada to train with him, it's soon very clear Henry's not on board.
Everyone loves and adores Theo, he's very easygoing, an extrovert, but Henry, on the other hand, hates him. He's pretty much obsessed with Theo and his work. He wants to do better, train better and beat him. Henry can't stand Theo doing almost nothing and taking it easy all the time and yet winning the competitions all the time.
As they train together, Theo sees how much hard work Henry puts into everything he does and really starts admiring him. He also starts liking him, very, very much. Did I mention they live in the same apartment building? With the hot tub and everything? Well.
Eventually Henry and Theo start hanging out, Theo's breaking Henry's shell and Henry really takes care of him. They get to know each other, they make meals together, drive to work together and even with Henry's guard completely up, they start hooking up, breaking it off and putting it on hold just in time for the Olympics.
Theo finally finds out what's holding Henry back all the time, stands up for him and they finally both profess their love for each other.
The epilogue takes us 7 years after the Olympics, where I'm happy to read they coach kids, live together and are even married.
I loved Henry. I don't think I've ever read about that kind of a character, he's really something else. Theo was his polar opposite and they fit together so well.
I loved this book.
Well. I'm definitely rounding down this rating. It's going from 5⭐ to a very strong 3.75⭐.
I expected a little more to be said about Henry and Theo's future together. The story jumps over 7 years with almost nothing said in between. Somehow I feel like the story wasn't developed enough for my liking, but I'll round it up simply for the characters and the setting.
I liked both Theo and Henry, although Theo was often portrayed as a dumb guy, when he really wasn't. Theo's had a difficult past and it didn't get any epilogue, the only resolve was his mother backing down a bit. What Theo went through deserved some serious attention.
Henry is still a character I like very much, a total introvert with his fluffy cat, this guy can cook and is great in bed. I mean, who doesn't love Henry? I definitely do.
"The thought of the Olympics made my stomach swoop. Here I was with my biggest rival for gold, sharing a meal and wearing his PJs while his cat rubbed against our ankles. I could imagine my mother’s fury at my softness and how shocked our competitors and everyone else would be if they could see us now."
A sweet, funny story with some steam - very good if you're a fan of the sport and not a very demanding reader.
_____________________________________
Original review on 6-August-2022
5⭐
I loved this book!
This wonderful, beautiful story is mostly about two competitive, elite ice skaters and rivals who unexpectedly become lovers.
🔵 Rivals to lovers
🟢 Grumpy/sunshine
🟡 Both gay
🟠 An inside look into professional ice skating
🟣 Endearing main characters
🌶️ Good smut, some off-page, virgin; t/b mostly but ending with both vers
Henry is a 23- year old professional ice skater who's has had quite the career and wants to win gold at the Olympics. He has a big, supportive family and lives alone, has no pressure about competing and is a really hard worker.
He's also very held back, cold and likes to be by himself, so when his biggest rival on ice - Theo, an American, a natural talent, who's the current world champion - moves to Canada to train with him, it's soon very clear Henry's not on board.
Everyone loves and adores Theo, he's very easygoing, an extrovert, but Henry, on the other hand, hates him. He's pretty much obsessed with Theo and his work. He wants to do better, train better and beat him. Henry can't stand Theo doing almost nothing and taking it easy all the time and yet winning the competitions all the time.
As they train together, Theo sees how much hard work Henry puts into everything he does and really starts admiring him. He also starts liking him, very, very much. Did I mention they live in the same apartment building? With the hot tub and everything? Well.
Eventually Henry and Theo start hanging out, Theo's breaking Henry's shell and Henry really takes care of him. They get to know each other, they make meals together, drive to work together and even with Henry's guard completely up, they start hooking up, breaking it off and putting it on hold just in time for the Olympics.
Theo finally finds out what's holding Henry back all the time, stands up for him and they finally both profess their love for each other.
The epilogue takes us 7 years after the Olympics, where I'm happy to read they coach kids, live together and are even married.
I loved Henry. I don't think I've ever read about that kind of a character, he's really something else. Theo was his polar opposite and they fit together so well.
I loved this book.
July 29, 2023
4.5⭐️ - this was a wonderful slow burn, rivals to lovers book. And figure skating!!!
I felt like we really got to know Henry and Theo so well. I feel like the rivals element was so well done. Henry really couldn’t stand Theo and it made sense. It didn’t feel underwhelming. Also, Henry’s insecurities were so valid. He had really been done wrong and it made perfect sense why he was so guarded.
I think Theo was misunderstood but for good reason. In an effort to escape his mother’s overbearing tendencies, he acted and did things that didn’t make him seem like he took anything serious. He was a deeply emotional person but he would disconnect when things got serious. Which was really a defense mechanism.
I adored how they became friends inadvertently and just found themselves drawn to each other. They balanced each other so well. And the romance felt like a natural progression. I loved how kind and gentle Theo was with Henry. He was patient. Henry found himself very protective of Theo. He saw the effects Theo’s toxic mother behavior had on him and wanted him to feel supported.
This wasn’t super spicy but their passionate moments were tender and full of emotion. I thought the whole story was paced so well and it flowed in a way that kept the suspense around their competitions but also allowed us to enjoy the moments away from the ice.
I felt like we really got to know Henry and Theo so well. I feel like the rivals element was so well done. Henry really couldn’t stand Theo and it made sense. It didn’t feel underwhelming. Also, Henry’s insecurities were so valid. He had really been done wrong and it made perfect sense why he was so guarded.
I think Theo was misunderstood but for good reason. In an effort to escape his mother’s overbearing tendencies, he acted and did things that didn’t make him seem like he took anything serious. He was a deeply emotional person but he would disconnect when things got serious. Which was really a defense mechanism.
I adored how they became friends inadvertently and just found themselves drawn to each other. They balanced each other so well. And the romance felt like a natural progression. I loved how kind and gentle Theo was with Henry. He was patient. Henry found himself very protective of Theo. He saw the effects Theo’s toxic mother behavior had on him and wanted him to feel supported.
This wasn’t super spicy but their passionate moments were tender and full of emotion. I thought the whole story was paced so well and it flowed in a way that kept the suspense around their competitions but also allowed us to enjoy the moments away from the ice.
May 24, 2023
4.5 - I’m surprised how much I enjoyed this. I adored the character of Henry - shy, particular and genuinely introverted from the beginning to the end of the novel. His response to what happened in his past felt so relatable. My heart hurt for him. I also loved his Japanese heritage and how this was included throughout, from visiting with his grandfather to the continuous warm comfort of his rice cooker. I really enjoyed the relationship development - actual rivals to lovers and a nice slow burn. The Canadian setting was a nice change too, wish there were more books written there.
Watching Olympic figure skating is a lovely nostalgic memory for me so this genre really hit the spot and I felt there was a good inclusion of actual skating in there, mixed well with the romance. The grumpy/sunshine trope didn’t feel forced but was genuinely believable. Think I might have to check out the books for the other characters mentioned here.
Watching Olympic figure skating is a lovely nostalgic memory for me so this genre really hit the spot and I felt there was a good inclusion of actual skating in there, mixed well with the romance. The grumpy/sunshine trope didn’t feel forced but was genuinely believable. Think I might have to check out the books for the other characters mentioned here.
September 14, 2022
2.5/5 stars
I was gonna DNF this but I wanted to know what had happened in Henry’s past so I skipped a lot. Idk if it was the narrator or the writing but I couldn’t connect with the characters at all, the only good thing was the sex scenes
I was gonna DNF this but I wanted to know what had happened in Henry’s past so I skipped a lot. Idk if it was the narrator or the writing but I couldn’t connect with the characters at all, the only good thing was the sex scenes
Displaying 1 - 30 of 619 reviews