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Wolves of Burlington #2
Iced Out Mate
Dylan Briggs knows exactly who he is on the ice. Off it, things are a little messier.
He bounces from hook-up to hook-up and tries not to overthink what comes next. But when he meets Miles Reed, the Burlington Bobcats’ new athletic trainer, there’s nothing to overthink.
Miles is his fated mate. Dyl is sure of it.
Except Miles is a shifter too, and he doesn’t feel the same pull. Something’s wrong.
Still, the attraction between them keeps growing, along with Dylan’s hope that maybe fate matters less than the fact that Miles keeps choosing him.
But getting closer to Miles also means getting pulled into the danger he came to Burlington trying to escape: a stalker who has spent years watching and threatening him.
And now they’ve noticed Dylan too.
With the season heating up and the threat escalating, Dylan and Miles will have to figure out what’s real between them before someone else decides their fate for them.
ICED OUT MATE is a spicy MM hockey shifter romance featuring a one-sided fated mate bond, forbidden attraction, teammates and found family, and two men determined to find out whether love really needs fate’s permission.
He bounces from hook-up to hook-up and tries not to overthink what comes next. But when he meets Miles Reed, the Burlington Bobcats’ new athletic trainer, there’s nothing to overthink.
Miles is his fated mate. Dyl is sure of it.
Except Miles is a shifter too, and he doesn’t feel the same pull. Something’s wrong.
Still, the attraction between them keeps growing, along with Dylan’s hope that maybe fate matters less than the fact that Miles keeps choosing him.
But getting closer to Miles also means getting pulled into the danger he came to Burlington trying to escape: a stalker who has spent years watching and threatening him.
And now they’ve noticed Dylan too.
With the season heating up and the threat escalating, Dylan and Miles will have to figure out what’s real between them before someone else decides their fate for them.
ICED OUT MATE is a spicy MM hockey shifter romance featuring a one-sided fated mate bond, forbidden attraction, teammates and found family, and two men determined to find out whether love really needs fate’s permission.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2026
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September 18, 2026
'Iced Out Mate' (Wolves of Burlington series, Book #2) by Max Walker (Kindle)
September 2026
Quote:
"For anyone who thinks fate is fucking with them. You can choose to fuck it right back."
(author)
Yeah! It's quotes like this: the dialogue and the humorous writing with an edge of steely angst, that keeps me coming back to more of Walker's books!
Dylan is a hockey player with a Vermont team, the Burlington Bobcats. He also happens to be a wolf-shifter, (a were-wolf during the full moon, a regular wolf-shifter the rest of the time) who has been yearning for his fated mate to suddenly show up.
During a rainy day run through the forest, Dylan follows an enticing scent that leads him to Miles, another wolf-shifter, who turns out to be his fated mate, not to mention he's also the new team Physical Therapist.
However, even though Miles is attracted to Dylan, it's not nearly as powerful as Dylan's feelings! He has no doubt that Miles is his fated-mate, but Miles seems...confused?
I like the way Walker includes enough details about his characters, yet gives room to discover more, bit by bit, like an elusive puzzle teasing you to figure it all out!
(I didn't, and enjoyed the twisted surprise ending!)
Intertwined within an intense action-adventure tale is that snarky humor that hooks me into the storyline every single time!
Plus the "throw-yer-socks-out-the-window" steamy sex-capades...(yeah, that's the ticket!)
(grin)
M×M love story ✅️
Shape-shifters ✅️
Hockey players ✅️
Snarky dialogue ✅️
Action-adventure ✅️
Humor ✅️
Did I mention HOT hockey players? ✅️
Not to mention a HOT physical therapist! ✅️
... smokin' !
"Holy cannoli, Batman!"
Oh, just one more thing...
There's a creepy & dangerously tenacious stalker ✅️
Walker is wonderfully creative in putting the MCs into dangerous & weird situations; it gives me "chicken skin" * just thinking about some of those situations!
*(Here in Hawaii we call that prickly sensation chicken skin, same-same as those on the mainland call goose bumps)
Oh man... the storyline takes a deep dive into the paranormal, with a black magic user shedding fear & paranoia every which way but loose, giving this tale an extra paranormal focus!
It's making my "little grey cells" (as Agatha Christie's detective Hercule Poirot would say) work overtime, in trying to figure out who is Mile's stalker. Just when you think you have figured out the culprit, Walker throws you a curve ball that blows the storyline right out of the ballpark! OMG! I didn't suspect a thing!
But now Dylan is getting death threats! WTF?
Gotta love it, oh yeah!
His creativity and ability at constructing an environment that complements his characters is why Max Walker is one of my long-time favorite writers!
Hey, btw:
(free recs: check out his Rainbow Dragons series, it's fabulous! We got auto-graphed copies of 2 books, for both me & my brother from another mother, who lives with me! Now we're gonna get 2 autographed copies of #3. This is a fantastic series! Dragons: hell, yes! And no, nobody paid me to say that, lmao!)
Can't hardly wait for the next book, as some things get resolved during this tale, but some are carried forward!
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
September 2026
Quote:
"For anyone who thinks fate is fucking with them. You can choose to fuck it right back."
(author)
Yeah! It's quotes like this: the dialogue and the humorous writing with an edge of steely angst, that keeps me coming back to more of Walker's books!
Dylan is a hockey player with a Vermont team, the Burlington Bobcats. He also happens to be a wolf-shifter, (a were-wolf during the full moon, a regular wolf-shifter the rest of the time) who has been yearning for his fated mate to suddenly show up.
During a rainy day run through the forest, Dylan follows an enticing scent that leads him to Miles, another wolf-shifter, who turns out to be his fated mate, not to mention he's also the new team Physical Therapist.
However, even though Miles is attracted to Dylan, it's not nearly as powerful as Dylan's feelings! He has no doubt that Miles is his fated-mate, but Miles seems...confused?
I like the way Walker includes enough details about his characters, yet gives room to discover more, bit by bit, like an elusive puzzle teasing you to figure it all out!
(I didn't, and enjoyed the twisted surprise ending!)
Intertwined within an intense action-adventure tale is that snarky humor that hooks me into the storyline every single time!
Plus the "throw-yer-socks-out-the-window" steamy sex-capades...(yeah, that's the ticket!)
(grin)
M×M love story ✅️
Shape-shifters ✅️
Hockey players ✅️
Snarky dialogue ✅️
Action-adventure ✅️
Humor ✅️
Did I mention HOT hockey players? ✅️
Not to mention a HOT physical therapist! ✅️
... smokin' !
"Holy cannoli, Batman!"
Oh, just one more thing...
There's a creepy & dangerously tenacious stalker ✅️
Walker is wonderfully creative in putting the MCs into dangerous & weird situations; it gives me "chicken skin" * just thinking about some of those situations!
*(Here in Hawaii we call that prickly sensation chicken skin, same-same as those on the mainland call goose bumps)
Oh man... the storyline takes a deep dive into the paranormal, with a black magic user shedding fear & paranoia every which way but loose, giving this tale an extra paranormal focus!
It's making my "little grey cells" (as Agatha Christie's detective Hercule Poirot would say) work overtime, in trying to figure out who is Mile's stalker. Just when you think you have figured out the culprit, Walker throws you a curve ball that blows the storyline right out of the ballpark! OMG! I didn't suspect a thing!
But now Dylan is getting death threats! WTF?
Gotta love it, oh yeah!
His creativity and ability at constructing an environment that complements his characters is why Max Walker is one of my long-time favorite writers!
Hey, btw:
(free recs: check out his Rainbow Dragons series, it's fabulous! We got auto-graphed copies of 2 books, for both me & my brother from another mother, who lives with me! Now we're gonna get 2 autographed copies of #3. This is a fantastic series! Dragons: hell, yes! And no, nobody paid me to say that, lmao!)
Can't hardly wait for the next book, as some things get resolved during this tale, but some are carried forward!
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2026
‘I wasn’t most people. I had my own quirks’ – Shifters on the ice, and off….
Georgia Author Max Walker has written sixty MM novels and has established himself as a popular figure on the literary scene. One reason for this – his creative romances that involve credible characters in tough – but not impossible – relationship situations. In this second volume of Wolves of Burlington – ICED OUT MATE – Max continues a paranormal romance series set around the Burlington Bobcats hockey team, ‘where wolf shifters hide their true nature while competing professionally. Pack territory comes under threat from rival wolves who escalate from intimidation to kidnapping, forcing shifters to balance championship games with defending their home. As fated mate bonds pull teammates and staff together, they must navigate the magnetic pull of destiny while keeping their secrets from the human world and fighting enemies emerging from the shadows.’
Max quite successfully creates hockey shifter characters as his overview of this story attests: ‘Dylan Briggs knows exactly who he is on the ice. Off it, things are a little messier. He bounces from hook-up to hook-up and tries not to overthink what comes next. But when he meets Miles Reed, the Burlington Bobcats’ new athletic trainer, there’s nothing to overthink. Miles is his fated mate. Dyl is sure of it. Except Miles is a shifter too, and he doesn’t feel the same pull. Something’s wrong. Still, the attraction between them keeps growing, along with Dylan’s hope that maybe fate matters less than the fact that Miles keeps choosing him. But getting closer to Miles also means getting pulled into the danger he came to Burlington trying to escape: a stalker who has spent years watching and threatening him. And now they’ve noticed Dylan too. With the season heating up and the threat escalating, Dylan and Miles will have to figure out what’s real between them before someone else decides their fate for them.’ Enhancing this lighthearted atmosphere Max introduces paranormal aspects that make for a new delightful (and unique!) MM romance. Sensitive, involving, and well developed, this is a very satisfying novel, a romance with mystery and other fine sidebars. Recommended
Georgia Author Max Walker has written sixty MM novels and has established himself as a popular figure on the literary scene. One reason for this – his creative romances that involve credible characters in tough – but not impossible – relationship situations. In this second volume of Wolves of Burlington – ICED OUT MATE – Max continues a paranormal romance series set around the Burlington Bobcats hockey team, ‘where wolf shifters hide their true nature while competing professionally. Pack territory comes under threat from rival wolves who escalate from intimidation to kidnapping, forcing shifters to balance championship games with defending their home. As fated mate bonds pull teammates and staff together, they must navigate the magnetic pull of destiny while keeping their secrets from the human world and fighting enemies emerging from the shadows.’
Max quite successfully creates hockey shifter characters as his overview of this story attests: ‘Dylan Briggs knows exactly who he is on the ice. Off it, things are a little messier. He bounces from hook-up to hook-up and tries not to overthink what comes next. But when he meets Miles Reed, the Burlington Bobcats’ new athletic trainer, there’s nothing to overthink. Miles is his fated mate. Dyl is sure of it. Except Miles is a shifter too, and he doesn’t feel the same pull. Something’s wrong. Still, the attraction between them keeps growing, along with Dylan’s hope that maybe fate matters less than the fact that Miles keeps choosing him. But getting closer to Miles also means getting pulled into the danger he came to Burlington trying to escape: a stalker who has spent years watching and threatening him. And now they’ve noticed Dylan too. With the season heating up and the threat escalating, Dylan and Miles will have to figure out what’s real between them before someone else decides their fate for them.’ Enhancing this lighthearted atmosphere Max introduces paranormal aspects that make for a new delightful (and unique!) MM romance. Sensitive, involving, and well developed, this is a very satisfying novel, a romance with mystery and other fine sidebars. Recommended
September 15, 2026
ARC REVIEW
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I really enjoyed this one ❤️!
Dylan meets Miles and immediately knows he is his fated mate. One problem: Miles feels something too, but not the all-consuming mate bond he should be feeling. So what exactly is missing from the mate bond…?
To make things even more complicated, Miles is also the new athletic trainer for Dylan’s team.
(Yeah, I love a little complication 😂)
But what really made this book for me was the fun plot, with a little bit of mystery surrounding who Miles’s stalker is and why they keep managing to find him everywhere.
So we get fated mates, a not-so-friendly stalker, a bit of excitement and an engaging plot that kept me reading. And after that ending, I’m really excited for the next book!
Read this if you like:
✨ fated mates with a bit of difficulty
✨ wolf shifters who go feral for each other without needing a full moon
✨ an engaging plot
✨ a cat daddy (and for everyone wondering: no cats get hurt 🐱)
✨ a good setup for book 3
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I really enjoyed this one ❤️!
Dylan meets Miles and immediately knows he is his fated mate. One problem: Miles feels something too, but not the all-consuming mate bond he should be feeling. So what exactly is missing from the mate bond…?
To make things even more complicated, Miles is also the new athletic trainer for Dylan’s team.
(Yeah, I love a little complication 😂)
But what really made this book for me was the fun plot, with a little bit of mystery surrounding who Miles’s stalker is and why they keep managing to find him everywhere.
So we get fated mates, a not-so-friendly stalker, a bit of excitement and an engaging plot that kept me reading. And after that ending, I’m really excited for the next book!
Read this if you like:
✨ fated mates with a bit of difficulty
✨ wolf shifters who go feral for each other without needing a full moon
✨ an engaging plot
✨ a cat daddy (and for everyone wondering: no cats get hurt 🐱)
✨ a good setup for book 3
September 18, 2026
An entertaining story that intertwines small town, professional hockey, and shifter/paranormal romance!
Miles comes to town, and things get a whole lot more interesting. There is a definite pull between Miles and Dylan, but Miles is reluctant. Having moved here for a fresh start, he doesn’t want to cause waves and risk his job.
But time spent together, and Dylan learning what he’s running from, brings these two together. And they are all kinds of lovely. And I really enjoy how they work together.
I’m really enjoying this sports/shifter series. I love the mix of the two.
Miles comes to town, and things get a whole lot more interesting. There is a definite pull between Miles and Dylan, but Miles is reluctant. Having moved here for a fresh start, he doesn’t want to cause waves and risk his job.
But time spent together, and Dylan learning what he’s running from, brings these two together. And they are all kinds of lovely. And I really enjoy how they work together.
I’m really enjoying this sports/shifter series. I love the mix of the two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Iced Out Mate was such an addictive read! 🏒🐺
Dylan completely stole my attention. I loved that he’s so confident and certain of himself on the ice, yet his personal life is a much messier story. He’s used to keeping things casual and jumping from one hookup to another, so meeting Miles and immediately knowing he’s his fated mate completely throws him for a loop.
And Miles… poor Miles. 😭 What made their relationship so interesting was that Dylan feels that undeniable mate pull, while Miles doesn’t feel it in the same way. Usually, you expect the fated-mate bond to make everything simple, but here it actually creates another layer of uncertainty. Dylan has to wonder whether Miles genuinely wants him or whether he’s simply being pulled along by fate. I really loved that the story gives Miles the opportunity to choose Dylan, rather than making their relationship entirely about destiny.
That was probably one of my favourite parts of their romance..the idea that sometimes choice matters more than fate. Dylan wants to believe they belong together, but he also needs to know that Miles is choosing him because he actually wants him. Their growing attraction and emotional connection made it so easy to root for them.
Then there’s the stalker storyline, which added a completely different level of tension. Miles didn't come to Burlington without baggage and the fact that the person who has been stalking and threatening him starts turning their attention towards Dylan made everything feel so much more dangerous. Suddenly, Dylan isn't just dealing with his confusing feelings about his mate, he's also being dragged into something genuinely threatening because of the man he's falling for. My jaw DROPPED when the stalker was unveiled. Wasn't expecting it AT ALL!
The chemistry between Dylan and Miles was 🔥🔥🔥. But I especially loved that there was more to their relationship than attraction. You've got the fated-mate bond, the uncertainty surrounding Miles' lack of a pull, the growing trust, the danger, and that question of whether they're together because they were destined to be or because they genuinely want each other.
And the set up for book 3!! Im so excited for that one! ✨️
Dylan completely stole my attention. I loved that he’s so confident and certain of himself on the ice, yet his personal life is a much messier story. He’s used to keeping things casual and jumping from one hookup to another, so meeting Miles and immediately knowing he’s his fated mate completely throws him for a loop.
And Miles… poor Miles. 😭 What made their relationship so interesting was that Dylan feels that undeniable mate pull, while Miles doesn’t feel it in the same way. Usually, you expect the fated-mate bond to make everything simple, but here it actually creates another layer of uncertainty. Dylan has to wonder whether Miles genuinely wants him or whether he’s simply being pulled along by fate. I really loved that the story gives Miles the opportunity to choose Dylan, rather than making their relationship entirely about destiny.
That was probably one of my favourite parts of their romance..the idea that sometimes choice matters more than fate. Dylan wants to believe they belong together, but he also needs to know that Miles is choosing him because he actually wants him. Their growing attraction and emotional connection made it so easy to root for them.
Then there’s the stalker storyline, which added a completely different level of tension. Miles didn't come to Burlington without baggage and the fact that the person who has been stalking and threatening him starts turning their attention towards Dylan made everything feel so much more dangerous. Suddenly, Dylan isn't just dealing with his confusing feelings about his mate, he's also being dragged into something genuinely threatening because of the man he's falling for. My jaw DROPPED when the stalker was unveiled. Wasn't expecting it AT ALL!
The chemistry between Dylan and Miles was 🔥🔥🔥. But I especially loved that there was more to their relationship than attraction. You've got the fated-mate bond, the uncertainty surrounding Miles' lack of a pull, the growing trust, the danger, and that question of whether they're together because they were destined to be or because they genuinely want each other.
And the set up for book 3!! Im so excited for that one! ✨️
September 20, 2026
★★★★½ — Iced Out Mate by Max Walker
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this one, and I'm so glad I did — this is a genuinely sweet, well-crafted addition to the wolves of Burlington.
What stood out most to me was how the slow burn was handled. It never felt obnoxious or dragged out for the sake of it — no characters flip-flopping back and forth in a way that reads as ridiculous. The pacing between Dylan and Miles feels earned: they respond to each other appropriately for who they are, while still genuinely doubting the other's intentions. What makes it work is that the slow burn is rooted in both of their trauma, not just external obstacles keeping them apart — you understand exactly why the doubt and distance are there, which isn't something I see done well very often in this genre.
I also want to specifically call out how anxiety is written here, through Dylan's perspective. It's referenced and shown with real honesty — the racing thoughts, the way it colors how he reads a room — without ever tipping into being overwhelming or triggering for the reader. That's a hard balance to strike, and Walker nails it.
My only real critique is pacing: some of the internal monologue-heavy scenes, especially ones dwelling on their feelings for each other, ran a little long and slowed the momentum in the back half.
There were also a couple of small continuity slips — a scene where Miles drives them somewhere and then, a page or two later, Dylan mentions getting into his own car, plus a couple of tiny environmental details that contradicted themselves shortly after being established. None of it affected the plot in any meaningful way, but it happened closely enough together that it pulled me out of the story a couple of times.
Those hiccups are the only reason this isn't a full 5 stars for me — the story itself absolutely earns it. Highly recommend for fans of shifter romance who want emotional depth alongside the slow burn.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this one, and I'm so glad I did — this is a genuinely sweet, well-crafted addition to the wolves of Burlington.
What stood out most to me was how the slow burn was handled. It never felt obnoxious or dragged out for the sake of it — no characters flip-flopping back and forth in a way that reads as ridiculous. The pacing between Dylan and Miles feels earned: they respond to each other appropriately for who they are, while still genuinely doubting the other's intentions. What makes it work is that the slow burn is rooted in both of their trauma, not just external obstacles keeping them apart — you understand exactly why the doubt and distance are there, which isn't something I see done well very often in this genre.
I also want to specifically call out how anxiety is written here, through Dylan's perspective. It's referenced and shown with real honesty — the racing thoughts, the way it colors how he reads a room — without ever tipping into being overwhelming or triggering for the reader. That's a hard balance to strike, and Walker nails it.
My only real critique is pacing: some of the internal monologue-heavy scenes, especially ones dwelling on their feelings for each other, ran a little long and slowed the momentum in the back half.
There were also a couple of small continuity slips — a scene where Miles drives them somewhere and then, a page or two later, Dylan mentions getting into his own car, plus a couple of tiny environmental details that contradicted themselves shortly after being established. None of it affected the plot in any meaningful way, but it happened closely enough together that it pulled me out of the story a couple of times.
Those hiccups are the only reason this isn't a full 5 stars for me — the story itself absolutely earns it. Highly recommend for fans of shifter romance who want emotional depth alongside the slow burn.
September 18, 2026
Were back with the Wolves of Burlington!!
Fated mates? Yes please! I'm an absolute sucker for a good fated mate story, ESPECIALLY when we have one character that knows they're fated and the other one doesn't... I had so many questions and loved the journey that Dylan and Miles had to take to get them.
Dylan is our resident hockey player and an absolute walking, talking green flag. Miles was delicious and also an absolute walking, talking green flag. You'd think that when two green flags meet, let alone two fated green flags, that things would be simple. Kiss. Mate. Live happily ever after. And yet... that is not the way the cookie crumbles in this story.
Going in, I wasn't sure what the central conflict or challenge was going to be in this story. I didn't expect what was happening, didn't immediately guess the identity of the person in question. Definitely didn't see the ending coming - both the actual ending and what happens to a certain someone. I was hooked.
In addition to the romance building between Dylan and Miles, there's an ongoing mystery that needs solving, interesting side characters that deserve exploring, magic, mayhem and of course full moon shenanigans. If you're a fan of MM shifter romances with fated mate elements, hockey team comradery, pack vibes and a satisfying, hard earned HEA then this is the book for you.
The ending had me very intrigued for future books. The couple for the next book is clear and while I am certainly looking forward to those two I NEED a certain captain's book ASAP.
Fated mates? Yes please! I'm an absolute sucker for a good fated mate story, ESPECIALLY when we have one character that knows they're fated and the other one doesn't... I had so many questions and loved the journey that Dylan and Miles had to take to get them.
Dylan is our resident hockey player and an absolute walking, talking green flag. Miles was delicious and also an absolute walking, talking green flag. You'd think that when two green flags meet, let alone two fated green flags, that things would be simple. Kiss. Mate. Live happily ever after. And yet... that is not the way the cookie crumbles in this story.
Going in, I wasn't sure what the central conflict or challenge was going to be in this story. I didn't expect what was happening, didn't immediately guess the identity of the person in question. Definitely didn't see the ending coming - both the actual ending and what happens to a certain someone. I was hooked.
In addition to the romance building between Dylan and Miles, there's an ongoing mystery that needs solving, interesting side characters that deserve exploring, magic, mayhem and of course full moon shenanigans. If you're a fan of MM shifter romances with fated mate elements, hockey team comradery, pack vibes and a satisfying, hard earned HEA then this is the book for you.
The ending had me very intrigued for future books. The couple for the next book is clear and while I am certainly looking forward to those two I NEED a certain captain's book ASAP.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review (and thank you so much for the ARC!).
I adored Dylan in book one, and I’m so happy that his was book two since I didn’t think I would be able to wait too long for his HEA.
This instalment was paced and plotted so well. There were a few red herrings too to throw me off the scent of the mystery surrounding Miles, Dylan’s potential fated mate, and I loved that! Their relationship evolved so well, and I think is stronger because they didn’t feel the bond equally.
I love that Miles is a softy, he loves flowers, and has a spa at his place, but is also a bit dominant, which is perfect for Dylan since he is such an anxious bean, I love him so much and I love that he found his calm in Miles!
There are a few cliffhangers in this one, one HUGE one and it’s super shocking and I am very upset, and the other smaller one sets up the next couple for book three. So that means I am beyond ready for book three.
I adored Dylan in book one, and I’m so happy that his was book two since I didn’t think I would be able to wait too long for his HEA.
This instalment was paced and plotted so well. There were a few red herrings too to throw me off the scent of the mystery surrounding Miles, Dylan’s potential fated mate, and I loved that! Their relationship evolved so well, and I think is stronger because they didn’t feel the bond equally.
I love that Miles is a softy, he loves flowers, and has a spa at his place, but is also a bit dominant, which is perfect for Dylan since he is such an anxious bean, I love him so much and I love that he found his calm in Miles!
There are a few cliffhangers in this one, one HUGE one and it’s super shocking and I am very upset, and the other smaller one sets up the next couple for book three. So that means I am beyond ready for book three.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy shit this book was so good. I really enjoyed Full Moon Faceoff (the first book in the series) but I loved this one even more.
Dylan and Miles had AMAZING chemistry and I immediately fell in love with both of them. I’m not a huge fan of the fated mates trope, but Max Walker does an interesting take on it in this book which I really enjoyed. These two couldn’t keep their hands off each other and there are multiple “fuck it” moments that made me a bit feral. The spice is plentiful in this book and it. was. so. good.
As much as I loved these two, my favorite aspect of the book was the raw and realistic anxiety representation. Dylan my sweet bby angel has crippling anxiety and it is the most realistic portrayal I’ve ever read. As someone who has dealt with anxiety my whole life, I know exactly what it’s like to have it mess with your head like it does Dylan’s.
This book was so amazingly good and I highly recommend you check out this series ASAP.
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Dylan and Miles had AMAZING chemistry and I immediately fell in love with both of them. I’m not a huge fan of the fated mates trope, but Max Walker does an interesting take on it in this book which I really enjoyed. These two couldn’t keep their hands off each other and there are multiple “fuck it” moments that made me a bit feral. The spice is plentiful in this book and it. was. so. good.
As much as I loved these two, my favorite aspect of the book was the raw and realistic anxiety representation. Dylan my sweet bby angel has crippling anxiety and it is the most realistic portrayal I’ve ever read. As someone who has dealt with anxiety my whole life, I know exactly what it’s like to have it mess with your head like it does Dylan’s.
This book was so amazingly good and I highly recommend you check out this series ASAP.
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much Max for the ARC! (4⭐️ on Storygraph/Goodreads)
Omg Dylan and Miles 🥹😭 my sweet little babies that deserve the whole world and all the good things after all the crap they've been through! These characters were just amazing and Max wrote them so well 😍. Spicy stuff aside, the chemistry between these two was phenomenal and I loved that they were so comfortable with each other.
I also really loved the mental health rep. The anxiety, the trauma, the guilt, and just everything here was so amazing to read and amazing to see how both Miles and Dylan handled those things on their own but how it changed once they started hanging out more. Loved it, that was perfect for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this sequel because of the characters alone. Hands down they were great. Also I'm going to need a 3rd book soon (pretry please) or I may die of anticipation about certain friends and cousins 👀.
Omg Dylan and Miles 🥹😭 my sweet little babies that deserve the whole world and all the good things after all the crap they've been through! These characters were just amazing and Max wrote them so well 😍. Spicy stuff aside, the chemistry between these two was phenomenal and I loved that they were so comfortable with each other.
I also really loved the mental health rep. The anxiety, the trauma, the guilt, and just everything here was so amazing to read and amazing to see how both Miles and Dylan handled those things on their own but how it changed once they started hanging out more. Loved it, that was perfect for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this sequel because of the characters alone. Hands down they were great. Also I'm going to need a 3rd book soon (pretry please) or I may die of anticipation about certain friends and cousins 👀.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is going to be a book I re-read many times as it hooked me from the very start. Dylan and Miles, even with forces against them, fell for and chose each other. This book flowed so well and was such an easy read! Both characters are easy to relate to, as they express feelings of anxiety, grief, guilt and just wanting to be loved. Max Walker has created a world you can easily embrace and writes characters that come alive on the page. This is the second book of the series and I honestly can’t wait for more. I highly recommend you read the first book before this one as those characters are present in this story. There are other characters I hope to see as MC’s in future books ‘cough Hunter cough’. But we do get a teaser on who’s next though, so bring it on!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My heart is missing and I’m pretty sure Dylan and Miles stole it!!!
I feel in love with Dylan in book one and his book not disappoint! Sweet, anxious, and empathetic Dylan was so heartwarming to read. And Miles, ugh he is wonderful! He is strong, emotionally mature, and exactly the man Dylan deserves.
Sometimes with fated mate plots you miss out on the process and authentic feeling of characters ‘falling’ in love, but Max Walker did not let this happen. This book blends the pull of fate with the act of choosing one another so well!
The mystery surrounding Miles and their relationship was really interesting and kept me guessing! I am on the edge of my seat for the next book (or more, fingers crossed!)
Thank you Max Walker for the eARC! It is well loved and appreciated!
I feel in love with Dylan in book one and his book not disappoint! Sweet, anxious, and empathetic Dylan was so heartwarming to read. And Miles, ugh he is wonderful! He is strong, emotionally mature, and exactly the man Dylan deserves.
Sometimes with fated mate plots you miss out on the process and authentic feeling of characters ‘falling’ in love, but Max Walker did not let this happen. This book blends the pull of fate with the act of choosing one another so well!
The mystery surrounding Miles and their relationship was really interesting and kept me guessing! I am on the edge of my seat for the next book (or more, fingers crossed!)
Thank you Max Walker for the eARC! It is well loved and appreciated!
September 18, 2026
I haven't read book 1, but after Iced Out Mate, I will, because this series is freaking steamy and adorable. Wolves of Burlington book 2 is about Dylan, a Bobcats hockey player who secretly wants his fated mate to show up right now. One rainy day, Dylan followed a scent that led him to Miles, another shifter who turns out to be his fated mate. Dylan saw and felt fireworks, but Miles did not, so apparently there is a glitch in the Mate Matrix.
Both Dylan and Miles have walls that are keeping them from taking that leap that will give them what they both always wanted. There is also a stalker who wants Miles all for themself and is willing to get rid of anything that is in the way. Iced Out Mate is a fun, steamy wolf love story, and I want more of the Wolves of Burlington series.
Both Dylan and Miles have walls that are keeping them from taking that leap that will give them what they both always wanted. There is also a stalker who wants Miles all for themself and is willing to get rid of anything that is in the way. Iced Out Mate is a fun, steamy wolf love story, and I want more of the Wolves of Burlington series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been looking forward to this book since reading Full Moon Face Off and falling in love with Dylan. Iced Out Mate was everything I wanted it to be and more.
I love the way Dylan immediately understood his bond with Miles, but never pressured him when Miles didn't feel the connection with the same intensity. I also really enjoyed the mystery aspect of this book. There was enough misdirection to keep the reader unsure of the stalker’s identity and how the story would end while not taking away from the romance.
I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the Burlington wolf pack and their fated mates in future books.
I love the way Dylan immediately understood his bond with Miles, but never pressured him when Miles didn't feel the connection with the same intensity. I also really enjoyed the mystery aspect of this book. There was enough misdirection to keep the reader unsure of the stalker’s identity and how the story would end while not taking away from the romance.
I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the Burlington wolf pack and their fated mates in future books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A great addition to the Burlington Wolves series. Dyl and Miles are my favorite. The unexpectedly endearing things that connected me to the characters was beautiful. This one had me chuckling out loud one moment, blushing another moment, and then gasping all within a few pages from each other.
I actually would have liked a few more hockey scenes and for the climax to be a little longer, but I absolutely loved this book and couldn't put it down.
I called it regarding who the next couple would be and I'm so happy I was right and so excited to read their story next.
Thank you for the ARC, Max! I look forward to reading your next one!
I actually would have liked a few more hockey scenes and for the climax to be a little longer, but I absolutely loved this book and couldn't put it down.
I called it regarding who the next couple would be and I'm so happy I was right and so excited to read their story next.
Thank you for the ARC, Max! I look forward to reading your next one!
September 17, 2026
Iced Out Mate is book 2 in the Wolves of Burlington series and an incredible continuation of the series. I don’t know how Max Walker does it, but he manages to create a story that is funny, warm, spicy, and will have you guessing till the very end. Dylan and Miles are incredible leads to this story and are so perfect for each other! Miles is new to the team and brings with him baggage he would rather leave behind. Dylan is the ultimate golden retriever whose energy and openness is joy personified! If you like paranormal romance, sports romance, or just an incredible love story do yourself a favor and read Iced Out Mate!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Good lord, where do I even start? I literally read this nonstop, I could not put it down. The twists? The love? The spice? Everything was 10/10. I was so surprised by how well this story was developed. Both main characters have a lot of trauma going on and it was interesting to see how all of it tied into the story (and it did flawlessly). I absolutely loved the plot of this book. I went into it thinking it was just a shifter love story and I got so much more out of it. I positively loved this book and cannot wait for the next one!
September 20, 2026
4.5 stars
After finishing Full Moon Faceoff I was really excited for this series to continue. And to see that it was sweet Dylan who was next made me extremely happy. His empathetic heart felt everything and after the events in book one he definitely deserved someone to love and cuddle him. Miles was great and I loved the bit of suspense that was written into this book and trying to guess who the bad person was. A great follow up to book one and I cannot wait for Chris and Benji next!
After finishing Full Moon Faceoff I was really excited for this series to continue. And to see that it was sweet Dylan who was next made me extremely happy. His empathetic heart felt everything and after the events in book one he definitely deserved someone to love and cuddle him. Miles was great and I loved the bit of suspense that was written into this book and trying to guess who the bad person was. A great follow up to book one and I cannot wait for Chris and Benji next!
September 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this one, and the little twist on fated mates. The pull between Miles and Dylan is so strong and magnetic that it is inevitable these two will end up together. The fact that they choose to do so was a sweet touch, and yet, the possessiveness and burning desire for each other is still ever present. And on top of this, the underlying tension with the stalker plot like added a little thrill to the story. I am having a blast with this series, and loving the mix of hockey and paranormal shifter romance that we’re getting!
September 18, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ I DEVOURED THIS!
MM and fated mates, but one of them doesn’t seem to feel the same and it had me hooked. I had so many theories and questions the whole way through and then a GASP moment where I was like OMG NOOOOO. BUT damn what a great book!
I really needed a change in what I was reading and this was perfection! The plot, the dynamic, the spice it was chefs kiss!
I can’t wait to read more books in the series!
MM and fated mates, but one of them doesn’t seem to feel the same and it had me hooked. I had so many theories and questions the whole way through and then a GASP moment where I was like OMG NOOOOO. BUT damn what a great book!
I really needed a change in what I was reading and this was perfection! The plot, the dynamic, the spice it was chefs kiss!
I can’t wait to read more books in the series!
September 20, 2026
This is an another fun, entertaining, hot book of the series. I enjoyed the mix hockey, shifter and light suspense plot. I loved both Dylan and Miles, and I loved reading about the development of their relationship beyond the physical attraction, and chemistry they undeniably have.
This is the second book of the series, can be read as a standalone and it sets the ground for next book with a kind of cliffhanger.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the second book of the series, can be read as a standalone and it sets the ground for next book with a kind of cliffhanger.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Couldn’t put down start to finish. I love these two.
These characters finding the mating bond in their own ways not just its fate. I love it. Chemistry is probably my fav of the two books. I love all the wolves but these two had me quick and kept me roped. Can’t wait for more. This is a reread worth series. I just love !!
These characters finding the mating bond in their own ways not just its fate. I love it. Chemistry is probably my fav of the two books. I love all the wolves but these two had me quick and kept me roped. Can’t wait for more. This is a reread worth series. I just love !!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dylan is a wolf shifter. Miles is the new trainer for the team & Dylan believes he's his fated mate. Unfortunately for Dylan, Miles feels something but doesn't feel the pull the way fated Mates normally feel. While this had quite a bit of a cozy romance & spice, vibe Max threw in a mystery for us to solve.
I was offered a free copy & this is my honest review.
I was offered a free copy & this is my honest review.
September 22, 2026
ICED OUT MATE is the second book in the Wolves of Burlington. It can be read as a standalone without issue.
What to expect:
🐺 Wolf shifters that are feral for each other.
🏒 A swoony hockey romance
🔥 Player x athletic trainer
😬 A mate bond that only ONE of them can feel
🔪 A stalker who really needs to learn some boundaries
🌶️ Plenty of heat
RTC
What to expect:
🐺 Wolf shifters that are feral for each other.
🏒 A swoony hockey romance
🔥 Player x athletic trainer
😬 A mate bond that only ONE of them can feel
🔪 A stalker who really needs to learn some boundaries
🌶️ Plenty of heat
RTC
September 22, 2026
Well I had the wrong end of the stick in my guess who the creeper was but oooh it makes sense!
Dylan and Miles, fated mates with a twist in that one doesnt feel it.
This is a fun read with unexepctsd turns and some great one liners on the journey to their HEA.
Add in some storyline that continue into future books and I am hooked.
Dylan and Miles, fated mates with a twist in that one doesnt feel it.
This is a fun read with unexepctsd turns and some great one liners on the journey to their HEA.
Add in some storyline that continue into future books and I am hooked.
September 17, 2026
An amazing sequel, love the dynamic between the guys and the anxiety was perfect. Loved who the bad guy was as it flowed and was a great twist. Can’t wait for the next book.
September 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this! Fun story, good twists and a nice set up for book 3
September 22, 2026
This was not bad at all. I personally need a little more romance but but but it was worth the read!
3.5 stars
2.5 chili peppers
3.5 stars
2.5 chili peppers
September 23, 2026
3 stars. This was underwhelming, especially compared to the first book in the series.
September 24, 2026
So cute I love this series it's such a great concept
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