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On The Brink #1
About to Bloom
Mathéo “Théo” Beaubien is a Chinese French Canadian figure skater, former prodigy turned cautionary tale. After a very public collapse, he flees Toronto’s pressure cooker for his brother’s spare bedroom in Chicago—Avery Beaubien, a rising hockey star for the Chicago Frost. He’s supposed to get his life back on track. Instead, he wears indifference like armour, turns deflection into an art, and keeps everyone at arm’s length.
Derek "Sully" Sullivan is the guy everyone counts on—alternate captain, locker room leader, the steady hand in a crisis. But after a career-threatening injury and a broken engagement, steady is the last thing he feels. It’s his comeback season. He’s supposed to be finding his footing. Instead, he’s losing it to his teammate’s younger brother—a prickly figure skater with a bad attitude and walls a mile high.
Théo isn’t looking to be saved—especially not by his brother’s teammate. Falling for Derek was never part of the plan. But some walls are meant to be climbed and some people are stubborn enough to try.
A MM romance with hurt/comfort, bi awakening, opposites attract, redemption, found family, and love that shows up. Interconnected standalone, dual POV.
Derek "Sully" Sullivan is the guy everyone counts on—alternate captain, locker room leader, the steady hand in a crisis. But after a career-threatening injury and a broken engagement, steady is the last thing he feels. It’s his comeback season. He’s supposed to be finding his footing. Instead, he’s losing it to his teammate’s younger brother—a prickly figure skater with a bad attitude and walls a mile high.
Théo isn’t looking to be saved—especially not by his brother’s teammate. Falling for Derek was never part of the plan. But some walls are meant to be climbed and some people are stubborn enough to try.
A MM romance with hurt/comfort, bi awakening, opposites attract, redemption, found family, and love that shows up. Interconnected standalone, dual POV.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 22, 2026
Look at this cover! First of all that is what drew me in. I had to read the blurb. The blurb was excellent so I decided to take a chance on a new to me author and I am so happy I did!
Love is blooming on the ice and off! Both Mathéo and Derek are broken but they are putting themselves back together. Derek has been betrayed by his fiancé and best friend (this is at the start of the book so I don’t think it’s a spoiler) and Théo had a breakdown after a skating competition which was the result of many things. Théo needs to get away from Toronto so he moves in with his brother in Chicago. His brother Avery is on the Frost, Chicago’s hockey team.
When Derek and Théo meet there is definitely a spark but once Théo agrees to dog sit Derek’s sweet dog Aspen they get to know each other and something starts growing. The parts with Aspen were so fun!
Derek watched Théo practice at the ring in the mornings and he becomes so obsessed with him and his skating. He really fell fast and he was only ever with his ex-fiancé who was a woman. I loved that he had no qualms about his feelings for Théo. That was basically a non-issue.
Théo’s story is hard. He tries to stay aloof and he doubts that he can skate again and then he doubts he can be in a relationship without ruining it. He had such a great support system. The side characters were amazing and added so much to the story! Sabrina is the best best friend, Hana is so amazing, Avery is a supporting and loving brother and the other hockey players were great too! And shoutout to
Théo’s mom and new coach!
I think there are two reasons why I’m giving this 4 stars instead of 5. First was “daddy” being part of the intimate scenes. It took me by surprise and I didn’t think it fits. It’s not a huge part of the story though. The second thing was the last few chapters dragged a bit and when Derek was on the receiving end it was so rushed. Those are my only two reasons I am not giving this 4 stars but it’s so close to 5 stars!
I hope we get more stories in this world! Ash Jackson is a strong writer and I was impressed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Love is blooming on the ice and off! Both Mathéo and Derek are broken but they are putting themselves back together. Derek has been betrayed by his fiancé and best friend (this is at the start of the book so I don’t think it’s a spoiler) and Théo had a breakdown after a skating competition which was the result of many things. Théo needs to get away from Toronto so he moves in with his brother in Chicago. His brother Avery is on the Frost, Chicago’s hockey team.
When Derek and Théo meet there is definitely a spark but once Théo agrees to dog sit Derek’s sweet dog Aspen they get to know each other and something starts growing. The parts with Aspen were so fun!
Derek watched Théo practice at the ring in the mornings and he becomes so obsessed with him and his skating. He really fell fast and he was only ever with his ex-fiancé who was a woman. I loved that he had no qualms about his feelings for Théo. That was basically a non-issue.
Théo’s story is hard. He tries to stay aloof and he doubts that he can skate again and then he doubts he can be in a relationship without ruining it. He had such a great support system. The side characters were amazing and added so much to the story! Sabrina is the best best friend, Hana is so amazing, Avery is a supporting and loving brother and the other hockey players were great too! And shoutout to
Théo’s mom and new coach!
I think there are two reasons why I’m giving this 4 stars instead of 5. First was “daddy” being part of the intimate scenes. It took me by surprise and I didn’t think it fits. It’s not a huge part of the story though. The second thing was the last few chapters dragged a bit and when Derek was on the receiving end it was so rushed. Those are my only two reasons I am not giving this 4 stars but it’s so close to 5 stars!
I hope we get more stories in this world! Ash Jackson is a strong writer and I was impressed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2026
My first book from this author and I love it.
Derek is a hockey player wit some years in the game and a mentor for the younger players like Théo's brother.
Théo left figure skating and Toronto because the pressure was too big and ends up in his older brother spare room.
Derek had the perfect life until a broken relationship and a serious injury left him to almost start over again
When Derek and Théo met for the first time, Théo's indifference left Derek curious
But Derek is not a man that gives up and when his pet sitter has to stop, Théo volunteers to take care of Derek's dog when Derek is away for the hockey games.
The chemistry between them is amazing and I can't wait to follow more from this author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Derek is a hockey player wit some years in the game and a mentor for the younger players like Théo's brother.
Théo left figure skating and Toronto because the pressure was too big and ends up in his older brother spare room.
Derek had the perfect life until a broken relationship and a serious injury left him to almost start over again
When Derek and Théo met for the first time, Théo's indifference left Derek curious
But Derek is not a man that gives up and when his pet sitter has to stop, Théo volunteers to take care of Derek's dog when Derek is away for the hockey games.
The chemistry between them is amazing and I can't wait to follow more from this author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
A year ago, 28 year old Derek Sullivan’s life shattered when Mackenzie, his girlfriend of 10 years, cheated on him. His heart was not the only thing broken, he also lost his best friend Cooper too. In his efforts to unsee what he saw, he tripped over his dog, Aspen, on the stairs while rushing out of his house to escape from what he just witnessed, in his own home . Next, he woke up in hospital suffering from concussion and a badly damaged ACL unable to play for his beloved hockey team, Chicago Frost.
Now recovered and back on the Ice, he’s mentoring Avery who will eventually take over Derek’s spot when the time comes for him to step back. Chicago Frost is a tight knit friendly team so when Avery invites his brother Theo, an Ice Skater, to join the team for after game celebrations, Derek can’t take his eyes off Theo.
Twenty one year old Theo fled Toronto following a huge public humiliation when he collapsed after coming off the ice at an important skating event. The pain that Theo carried with him poured off the page and into me and had me crying for him. He is so locked up inside his head, untrusting of everyone, including his brother Avery. He didn’t stand a chance against the kindness and understanding shown him by Derek after a few such meet ups with team Chicago Frost.
Derek is a gem, a very confused precious diamond, who doesn’t understand the feelings he is experiencing when around Theo, it feels alien to him. Fate intervenes when Derek’s dog-sitter had to cancel the day before he had to leave for an away game. He’d been amazed when Theo stepped up and offered to come stay and look after Aspen.
After that first step events moved quickly. I loved Derek and the way he didn’t panic or deny his growing feelings for a man and I was wishing that Theo would let Derek melt the iceberg deep inside him. Theo’s story will break your heart, from his childhood feelings of neglect to the public downfall. The scars he hides, both internal and external. But he start showing it all to Derek, and Theo is starting to bloom under such delicate care. Derek just won’t let Theo throw him off without putting up a fight.
Progress was slow moving but at least it was happening, then the past catches up to Theo when his previous Coach calls him from Toronto.
I received an ARC copy of ‘About to Bloom’ by Ash Jackson who I hadn’t read before, I’m leaving this review voluntarily. They way she brought these two very diverse men together, like they were made for each other, one an out gay man, the other thinking he was straight. They had such supportive friends, Hana and Avery, Bradley and Kenzo,(Hana’s brother), Let’s not forget the wonderful Sabrina who is Theo’s best friend since they skated together as kids. Every guy needs a platonic friend like her in their corner.
I’m feeling left hanging in the breeze because I think that Avery needs a big awakening and he needs someone like Sabrina to do some a**kicking to wake him up and smell the rose that is the lovely Hana. Now they are a pair that I want to see Bloom next.
TW’S,very important that Trigger Warnings are read because there is a lot here that could be upsetting for those struggling with Mental Health issues, Eating Disorders, Drug Misuse, Self Harming. Take care of yourself first and foremost.
Now recovered and back on the Ice, he’s mentoring Avery who will eventually take over Derek’s spot when the time comes for him to step back. Chicago Frost is a tight knit friendly team so when Avery invites his brother Theo, an Ice Skater, to join the team for after game celebrations, Derek can’t take his eyes off Theo.
Twenty one year old Theo fled Toronto following a huge public humiliation when he collapsed after coming off the ice at an important skating event. The pain that Theo carried with him poured off the page and into me and had me crying for him. He is so locked up inside his head, untrusting of everyone, including his brother Avery. He didn’t stand a chance against the kindness and understanding shown him by Derek after a few such meet ups with team Chicago Frost.
Derek is a gem, a very confused precious diamond, who doesn’t understand the feelings he is experiencing when around Theo, it feels alien to him. Fate intervenes when Derek’s dog-sitter had to cancel the day before he had to leave for an away game. He’d been amazed when Theo stepped up and offered to come stay and look after Aspen.
After that first step events moved quickly. I loved Derek and the way he didn’t panic or deny his growing feelings for a man and I was wishing that Theo would let Derek melt the iceberg deep inside him. Theo’s story will break your heart, from his childhood feelings of neglect to the public downfall. The scars he hides, both internal and external. But he start showing it all to Derek, and Theo is starting to bloom under such delicate care. Derek just won’t let Theo throw him off without putting up a fight.
Progress was slow moving but at least it was happening, then the past catches up to Theo when his previous Coach calls him from Toronto.
I received an ARC copy of ‘About to Bloom’ by Ash Jackson who I hadn’t read before, I’m leaving this review voluntarily. They way she brought these two very diverse men together, like they were made for each other, one an out gay man, the other thinking he was straight. They had such supportive friends, Hana and Avery, Bradley and Kenzo,(Hana’s brother), Let’s not forget the wonderful Sabrina who is Theo’s best friend since they skated together as kids. Every guy needs a platonic friend like her in their corner.
I’m feeling left hanging in the breeze because I think that Avery needs a big awakening and he needs someone like Sabrina to do some a**kicking to wake him up and smell the rose that is the lovely Hana. Now they are a pair that I want to see Bloom next.
TW’S,very important that Trigger Warnings are read because there is a lot here that could be upsetting for those struggling with Mental Health issues, Eating Disorders, Drug Misuse, Self Harming. Take care of yourself first and foremost.
April 27, 2026
3.5
This needs some editing. Sometimes it felt like the characters were repeating themselves again and again. Some descriptions felt unnecessary and out of place. Good story overall though.
This needs some editing. Sometimes it felt like the characters were repeating themselves again and again. Some descriptions felt unnecessary and out of place. Good story overall though.
Review of advance copy
5⭐️ 2-3🌶️
MOOD: emotional, sad, tense, funny
TROPES: hurt/comfort, teammate's brother, bi-awakening
GENRES: sports romance, lgbtq+ romance
FAV QUOTE: "I don't know why I'm telling you." He held my gaze. Not pity - something quieter. Recognition, maybe. The look of someone who'd also had the ground shift beneath him and was learning how to walk.
MAIN CHARACTERS: Mathéo "Théo" Beaubien and Derek "Sully" Sullivan
I devoured this book - granted I wasn't feeling well and was in bed pretty much all day - but still, it held my attention and it was both heartbreaking and enjoyable. I thought I was over hockey romance but it turns out I just needed a figure skater with a bad attitude (a side character said it not me) thrown in and for it to NOT be a coming out story. Derek is overfriendly and Théo doesn't trust anyone so their relationship starts off a little rocky but how it evolves is a great read. This definitely falls on the sappy side for some of the interactions between Sully and Théo but I was here for it. Both characters have had their lives fall about and neither one is trying to save the other - that's refreshing. I was sad when I got to the end of the book - cause there was no more to read. This was my first Ash Jackson book and I'd read more.
I'm putting this in neutral territory but it was actually something I liked this time around so I guess it depends on my mood - there is very little hockey playing in the book. That being said, there is fairly realistic game/travel schedule which affects the characters and plot. But the focus isn't hockey or even figure skating even though those are main components of Théo and Derek's lives.
Lastly, this is really small but it bothers me and can age a book or take a reader out of it - and if you don't believe me, read a book from 2016 when they reference Skype. Ubered is used as a verb, which I know is something we say but if you need to reference a specific company then just go with called an Uber and iPads are frequent. I know they've been around for awhile but specific brands for devices can also be odd to read about - it could have just been a tablet.
CW: sexual content, eating disorder, self-harm, drug abuse, suicide attempt (side character), medical content
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
MOOD: emotional, sad, tense, funny
TROPES: hurt/comfort, teammate's brother, bi-awakening
GENRES: sports romance, lgbtq+ romance
FAV QUOTE: "I don't know why I'm telling you." He held my gaze. Not pity - something quieter. Recognition, maybe. The look of someone who'd also had the ground shift beneath him and was learning how to walk.
MAIN CHARACTERS: Mathéo "Théo" Beaubien and Derek "Sully" Sullivan
I devoured this book - granted I wasn't feeling well and was in bed pretty much all day - but still, it held my attention and it was both heartbreaking and enjoyable. I thought I was over hockey romance but it turns out I just needed a figure skater with a bad attitude (a side character said it not me) thrown in and for it to NOT be a coming out story. Derek is overfriendly and Théo doesn't trust anyone so their relationship starts off a little rocky but how it evolves is a great read. This definitely falls on the sappy side for some of the interactions between Sully and Théo but I was here for it. Both characters have had their lives fall about and neither one is trying to save the other - that's refreshing. I was sad when I got to the end of the book - cause there was no more to read. This was my first Ash Jackson book and I'd read more.
I'm putting this in neutral territory but it was actually something I liked this time around so I guess it depends on my mood - there is very little hockey playing in the book. That being said, there is fairly realistic game/travel schedule which affects the characters and plot. But the focus isn't hockey or even figure skating even though those are main components of Théo and Derek's lives.
Lastly, this is really small but it bothers me and can age a book or take a reader out of it - and if you don't believe me, read a book from 2016 when they reference Skype. Ubered is used as a verb, which I know is something we say but if you need to reference a specific company then just go with called an Uber and iPads are frequent. I know they've been around for awhile but specific brands for devices can also be odd to read about - it could have just been a tablet.
CW: sexual content, eating disorder, self-harm, drug abuse, suicide attempt (side character), medical content
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2026
This was actually pretty good! Definitely one of the better indie romances I've stumbled upon recently.
I thought everything was well done here: characters, romance, mental health etc. I liked how Theo acknowledged that getting better took work, and that he still had bad days. I also liked how Derek was there for him while acknowledging his growth as well (bi awakening). The hurt/comfort was well done and I was here for it.
I also thought the side characters were well done. Everyone had their own things going on and no one felt one-dimensional to me. I think, as usual with romance stories, some of the dialogue can get a little hammy but overall nothing stuck out to me as being ~too far~ into the corny lane.
The best part for me though, was that there was no plot line revolving around homophobia. Everyone knew Derek was previously with a woman, and him being with Theo was treated in the same way. All of the emotional beats had nothing to do with discrimination thank god! I enjoyed how their relationship developed with trusting each other and Derek being a giant green flag. No relationship drama! That's what we like to see!
This story definitely had some deep topics so pay attention to the warnings if you have sensitivities but I liked this one. Sad it was over so soon and sad we might not get more of them but I thought everything came together.
I thought everything was well done here: characters, romance, mental health etc. I liked how Theo acknowledged that getting better took work, and that he still had bad days. I also liked how Derek was there for him while acknowledging his growth as well (bi awakening). The hurt/comfort was well done and I was here for it.
I also thought the side characters were well done. Everyone had their own things going on and no one felt one-dimensional to me. I think, as usual with romance stories, some of the dialogue can get a little hammy but overall nothing stuck out to me as being ~too far~ into the corny lane.
The best part for me though, was that there was no plot line revolving around homophobia. Everyone knew Derek was previously with a woman, and him being with Theo was treated in the same way. All of the emotional beats had nothing to do with discrimination thank god! I enjoyed how their relationship developed with trusting each other and Derek being a giant green flag. No relationship drama! That's what we like to see!
This story definitely had some deep topics so pay attention to the warnings if you have sensitivities but I liked this one. Sad it was over so soon and sad we might not get more of them but I thought everything came together.
Review of advance copy
I loved this book—it hooked me quickly and held my attention throughout. Théo and Derek are layered characters, but the emotional focus leans toward Théo’s healing. After a traumatic period in his life and career, he’s learning how to exist again, while Derek—already past the worst of his own heartbreak—brings a quiet steadiness that grounds him.
The story feels balanced, moving naturally between soft, intimate moments and heavier emotional beats. There’s a strong sense of growth, especially for Théo, as he slowly rebuilds himself. The messiness of it all feels very human, and Derek gives him the space and support to figure things out without pressure.
Derek adds a lot of charm—his sudden fascination with figure skating is endearing, and when things heat up, there’s a spark that makes their chemistry feel natural.
Théo’s arc carries the most weight. His hesitation around skating and vulnerability makes his progress feel genuinely earned.
The emotional depth, sports backdrop, and mix of sweetness, angst, and heat made this story really stick with me. This was my first Ash Jackson book, and it definitely won’t be my last.
The story feels balanced, moving naturally between soft, intimate moments and heavier emotional beats. There’s a strong sense of growth, especially for Théo, as he slowly rebuilds himself. The messiness of it all feels very human, and Derek gives him the space and support to figure things out without pressure.
Derek adds a lot of charm—his sudden fascination with figure skating is endearing, and when things heat up, there’s a spark that makes their chemistry feel natural.
Théo’s arc carries the most weight. His hesitation around skating and vulnerability makes his progress feel genuinely earned.
The emotional depth, sports backdrop, and mix of sweetness, angst, and heat made this story really stick with me. This was my first Ash Jackson book, and it definitely won’t be my last.
April 25, 2026
4.5 Star
This was my first book by Ash Jackson, and it was such a great read. I do plan on pick up more of their work.
About to Bloom is about Mathéo goes by Théo. Théo is a world known figure skater who goes through a collapse in life and decides the best move for him is to move from Toronto to Chicago. He moves in with his brother Avery. This move was made in the decision to get his life back on track. However, he is very deflective and turns away anytime friends or family tried to help, keeping everyone at an arm's length. Then we have Derek, who is an alternate captain for the Chicago Frost, the same team that Théo brother plays for. Derek is the guy you can always count on, always willing to help someone even if it were to hurt him. Derek was previously engaged to his longtime girlfriend, which ends badly causing him to be closed off to love.
These two both are not looking for love, but in the end, they cannot resist the feelings they have for each other.
I really enjoyed that this was not an insta love story, their relationship took time to develop, and that there was a lot of trust and growth between them.
This was my first book by Ash Jackson, and it was such a great read. I do plan on pick up more of their work.
About to Bloom is about Mathéo goes by Théo. Théo is a world known figure skater who goes through a collapse in life and decides the best move for him is to move from Toronto to Chicago. He moves in with his brother Avery. This move was made in the decision to get his life back on track. However, he is very deflective and turns away anytime friends or family tried to help, keeping everyone at an arm's length. Then we have Derek, who is an alternate captain for the Chicago Frost, the same team that Théo brother plays for. Derek is the guy you can always count on, always willing to help someone even if it were to hurt him. Derek was previously engaged to his longtime girlfriend, which ends badly causing him to be closed off to love.
These two both are not looking for love, but in the end, they cannot resist the feelings they have for each other.
I really enjoyed that this was not an insta love story, their relationship took time to develop, and that there was a lot of trust and growth between them.
April 26, 2026
First book I’ve read by this author and I am so so impressed! This story was so so good! We have Derek who walked in on his girlfriend sleeping with his best friend and he falls and tears his acl
Theo a figure skater is the brother of his teammate who escaped Toronto when it all became too much for him
He offers to dogsit for Derek and a friendship blooms but not in a easy way
Theo is very guarded about his secrets his mental health and about his career but Derek someone who has never been with a man is persistent he watches him practice he gives him space and the most important thing he’s there
Theo needs someone to see beyond the broken beyond the scars and when Derek kisses every one of those little scars I melted
Theo let Derek see the things that he thought was broken about him and Derek didn’t flinch once
This story was just absolutely beautiful it had everything truly it has the spice which was so good but it had the vulnerability between them
Healing each other Theo letting down the walls and letting Derek be the anchor he needed
Oh and the nickname? Snowdrop! Are you kidding me! It was just perfection truly
Theo a figure skater is the brother of his teammate who escaped Toronto when it all became too much for him
He offers to dogsit for Derek and a friendship blooms but not in a easy way
Theo is very guarded about his secrets his mental health and about his career but Derek someone who has never been with a man is persistent he watches him practice he gives him space and the most important thing he’s there
Theo needs someone to see beyond the broken beyond the scars and when Derek kisses every one of those little scars I melted
Theo let Derek see the things that he thought was broken about him and Derek didn’t flinch once
This story was just absolutely beautiful it had everything truly it has the spice which was so good but it had the vulnerability between them
Healing each other Theo letting down the walls and letting Derek be the anchor he needed
Oh and the nickname? Snowdrop! Are you kidding me! It was just perfection truly
April 26, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up.
I loved this book! Read it practically straight through. I've been on a bit of a reading lull and this book broke it.
The plot was realistic and different. You could tell the author knew exactly what the locations they described looked, sounded, and smelled like. Everything just felt very real. The locations and the MCs.
Watching the way Derek responded to Theo with support and patience was everything good in the world. Watching Theo strive to recover filled my heart and I was rooting for him so hard.
My only complaint was I wish the story had been a little tighter. An MC would use the exact same language to describe something in a different conversation and some conversations felt like repeats of ones before. Nothing major, but it did cause a slight record skip in my brain.
As a heads up, for people who love it or hate it, although it's not entirely smooth sailing- the angst between Theo and Derek is quite low. The focus was more on Theo healing.
Anyway, the book was wonderful and just what I needed -and now I'm off to read Bradley and Kenzo's story. They were fabulous secondary characters.
I loved this book! Read it practically straight through. I've been on a bit of a reading lull and this book broke it.
The plot was realistic and different. You could tell the author knew exactly what the locations they described looked, sounded, and smelled like. Everything just felt very real. The locations and the MCs.
Watching the way Derek responded to Theo with support and patience was everything good in the world. Watching Theo strive to recover filled my heart and I was rooting for him so hard.
My only complaint was I wish the story had been a little tighter. An MC would use the exact same language to describe something in a different conversation and some conversations felt like repeats of ones before. Nothing major, but it did cause a slight record skip in my brain.
As a heads up, for people who love it or hate it, although it's not entirely smooth sailing- the angst between Theo and Derek is quite low. The focus was more on Theo healing.
Anyway, the book was wonderful and just what I needed -and now I'm off to read Bradley and Kenzo's story. They were fabulous secondary characters.
May 20, 2026
This was such a genuinely sweet read. The emotional core of the story really worked for me, especially the way it handled anxiety, burnout, eating disorders, perfectionism, and the terrifying vulnerability of letting someone actually care about you. Nico’s internal monologue especially felt painfully real at times in a way that hit harder than I expected.
The romance itself was very soft and comforting. Derek had this steady, grounding energy that balanced Nico’s overthinking perfectly, and I loved how patient he was without feeling unrealistically perfect. Their relationship had a lot of small moments that made it feel intimate instead of overly dramatic. The “I’m terrified. But I do.” scene absolutely got me.
I also really appreciated how emotionally open this book was. The author doesn’t shy away from showing ugly coping mechanisms, intrusive thoughts, or the exhaustion of constantly performing “I’m fine” for everyone around you. Some of Nico’s thoughts about body image and control honestly felt *way* too recognizable.
And despite the heavier themes, the book still had a really cozy vibe underneath it all. Figure skating and hockey romances always have this built in charm already, but this one especially felt warm and easy to sink into. It was emotional, cute, comforting, occasionally funny, and very bingeable.
That said, the main reason this landed at 4 stars instead of 5 for me was because Derek honestly felt like he existed in a vacuum at times. Nico’s emotional world, support system, and struggles were deeply explored, but Derek rarely seemed to have anyone in *his* corner outside of Nico. I kept waiting for more insight into his friendships, family dynamics, or personal support system, and it made the relationship feel slightly unbalanced by the end. It almost read more like one deeply developed POV with a love interest attached rather than two equally fleshed out lives intersecting.
Also shoutout to the line “You’ve just been too busy being a trainwreck to appreciate it,” because that one hit me like a truck.
Overall, a really heartfelt romance with lovable characters, strong emotional moments, and enough tenderness to make me burn through it in basically one sitting. Solid 4 stars from me.
The romance itself was very soft and comforting. Derek had this steady, grounding energy that balanced Nico’s overthinking perfectly, and I loved how patient he was without feeling unrealistically perfect. Their relationship had a lot of small moments that made it feel intimate instead of overly dramatic. The “I’m terrified. But I do.” scene absolutely got me.
I also really appreciated how emotionally open this book was. The author doesn’t shy away from showing ugly coping mechanisms, intrusive thoughts, or the exhaustion of constantly performing “I’m fine” for everyone around you. Some of Nico’s thoughts about body image and control honestly felt *way* too recognizable.
And despite the heavier themes, the book still had a really cozy vibe underneath it all. Figure skating and hockey romances always have this built in charm already, but this one especially felt warm and easy to sink into. It was emotional, cute, comforting, occasionally funny, and very bingeable.
That said, the main reason this landed at 4 stars instead of 5 for me was because Derek honestly felt like he existed in a vacuum at times. Nico’s emotional world, support system, and struggles were deeply explored, but Derek rarely seemed to have anyone in *his* corner outside of Nico. I kept waiting for more insight into his friendships, family dynamics, or personal support system, and it made the relationship feel slightly unbalanced by the end. It almost read more like one deeply developed POV with a love interest attached rather than two equally fleshed out lives intersecting.
Also shoutout to the line “You’ve just been too busy being a trainwreck to appreciate it,” because that one hit me like a truck.
Overall, a really heartfelt romance with lovable characters, strong emotional moments, and enough tenderness to make me burn through it in basically one sitting. Solid 4 stars from me.
May 6, 2026
Such a beautiful story of love and healing!
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I’m an absolute sucker for a hurt/comfort done right and, boy, was this done right! Théo’s character, the broken, sharp-edged boy, was so compelling! I was rooting for him from the start. I love it when the tender, sweet, caring one (Derek is a treasure) finally breaks through to the black cat’s heart and gets to have him. Théo was an absolute ice prince we got to see melt with love.
There might have been some inconsistencies, some repetitions in the writing, but then there were other bits so beautifully written it was impossible not to highlight so I’d go back and experience again. And the story progression was so compelling. I kept picking this up at any spare moment. Truly beautiful! Part of me hope we get a second book to cover the Olympics journey. Perhaps we could see Derek become captain! There’s so much more potential for these two I feel! Excited to see what On The Brink Book 2 brings <3
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I’m an absolute sucker for a hurt/comfort done right and, boy, was this done right! Théo’s character, the broken, sharp-edged boy, was so compelling! I was rooting for him from the start. I love it when the tender, sweet, caring one (Derek is a treasure) finally breaks through to the black cat’s heart and gets to have him. Théo was an absolute ice prince we got to see melt with love.
There might have been some inconsistencies, some repetitions in the writing, but then there were other bits so beautifully written it was impossible not to highlight so I’d go back and experience again. And the story progression was so compelling. I kept picking this up at any spare moment. Truly beautiful! Part of me hope we get a second book to cover the Olympics journey. Perhaps we could see Derek become captain! There’s so much more potential for these two I feel! Excited to see what On The Brink Book 2 brings <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky to get this as an ARC
I quickly fell in love with both characters, once you read this you will know why.
The mental health representation is so well done, it is so important to realise that so many conditions are written about. It also gives books like these real depth.
Theo is just adorable and his acceptance of his struggles is a journey and a half, just love him to bits.
Derek....well he's just our beautiful golden retriever, he has his own personal struggles and the start of the book broke me, he needs protected and yeah...I love him also.
I will be buying the paperback once it's released as I know I will definitely be reading this beautiful story again.
The other characters are actually brilliant in how Theo and Derek become eachothers lifelines.
Absolutely belter of a book!!!!
I quickly fell in love with both characters, once you read this you will know why.
The mental health representation is so well done, it is so important to realise that so many conditions are written about. It also gives books like these real depth.
Theo is just adorable and his acceptance of his struggles is a journey and a half, just love him to bits.
Derek....well he's just our beautiful golden retriever, he has his own personal struggles and the start of the book broke me, he needs protected and yeah...I love him also.
I will be buying the paperback once it's released as I know I will definitely be reading this beautiful story again.
The other characters are actually brilliant in how Theo and Derek become eachothers lifelines.
Absolutely belter of a book!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I do not even know how to describe how I felt about reading this book. I actually found myself smiling, quite a bit.
It just touched so many things in me-while the subject matter may not be for everyone, I felt like it was handled in a tasteful manner and it allowed for the character of Theo to develop and while struggling to accept help, he gets there.
Derek, Derek, Derek-what a great guy. I loved that he was open to accepting that he was bi, when he never had any inklings towards that in the past.
I guess it is true, that you just never know.
The two of them work so well together, and it is not just because Saint Derek likes to take care of everyone.
This is a great setup for what I hope is a series and I hope that we get to see Theo and Derek again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It just touched so many things in me-while the subject matter may not be for everyone, I felt like it was handled in a tasteful manner and it allowed for the character of Theo to develop and while struggling to accept help, he gets there.
Derek, Derek, Derek-what a great guy. I loved that he was open to accepting that he was bi, when he never had any inklings towards that in the past.
I guess it is true, that you just never know.
The two of them work so well together, and it is not just because Saint Derek likes to take care of everyone.
This is a great setup for what I hope is a series and I hope that we get to see Theo and Derek again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
About to Bloom is a beautiful, heartbreaking story about healing, finding yourself, and falling in love, and omg did it deliver!
Some books are written in such a way that reading them can heal parts of you that you didn't know were broken. Going through this journey with Théo, that is absolutely what happened to me. By the time I got to end of this story and watched him come alive for the first time in years, I was ugly crying and filled with so much joy I could barely contain myself. I literally just sat and stared at the wall, consumed by everything I was feeling, in all the best ways.
Derek is the greenest flag to ever fly and the biggest and best support that Théo didn't know he needed. The way they fell in love was so quiet and tender, it felt as easy as breathing.
Please read this book! It's 1000% worth it! ❤️
Some books are written in such a way that reading them can heal parts of you that you didn't know were broken. Going through this journey with Théo, that is absolutely what happened to me. By the time I got to end of this story and watched him come alive for the first time in years, I was ugly crying and filled with so much joy I could barely contain myself. I literally just sat and stared at the wall, consumed by everything I was feeling, in all the best ways.
Derek is the greenest flag to ever fly and the biggest and best support that Théo didn't know he needed. The way they fell in love was so quiet and tender, it felt as easy as breathing.
Please read this book! It's 1000% worth it! ❤️
April 30, 2026
⛸️ Figure Skater x Hockey Player 🏒
This book was EXCELLENT! I’d never read this author, so I didn’t really have any expectations, but About to Bloom absolutely blew me away. Beautiful writing, careful and respectful handling of tough topics, sizzling chemistry and spice, and characters I DARE YOU not to fall in love with. If you’re into the big green flag type, Derek is your guy. Possibly one of the greenest flags I’ve ever read. This is such a gorgeous love story!
Definitely check triggers before you go in, as some of these topics may be upsetting.
❤️ My favorite quote:
“You’re like a flower that hasn’t bloomed yet. All those petals folded in tight, protecting something beautiful underneath. I don’t want to force you open. I just want to be there when you’re ready. If you’re ever ready.”
This book was EXCELLENT! I’d never read this author, so I didn’t really have any expectations, but About to Bloom absolutely blew me away. Beautiful writing, careful and respectful handling of tough topics, sizzling chemistry and spice, and characters I DARE YOU not to fall in love with. If you’re into the big green flag type, Derek is your guy. Possibly one of the greenest flags I’ve ever read. This is such a gorgeous love story!
Definitely check triggers before you go in, as some of these topics may be upsetting.
❤️ My favorite quote:
“You’re like a flower that hasn’t bloomed yet. All those petals folded in tight, protecting something beautiful underneath. I don’t want to force you open. I just want to be there when you’re ready. If you’re ever ready.”
May 4, 2026
Slowly being pulled out from the reading slump.
The hockey X figure skater trope is what pulled me in initially, along with the ED rep. Around halfway through the story plateaud but it was fine.
Darek is so sweet and a genuinely good person. Theo is all those hard edges but just needs someone to feel safe around. Idk how I feel about them long term but they’re cute.
As soon as Theo called Derek daddy though and dared called him snowdrop - immediate star reduction.There’s a 7 year age gap that’s not a big deal. Both just no.
Fav side characters were Nico (I want a book about him!!) and Avery. Shoutout to Dareks other teammates and Sabrina.
There was some repetition and also I felt that some things in the beginning were dropped w no explanation such as theos ED behaviours, but over all was a cute sweet story.
The hockey X figure skater trope is what pulled me in initially, along with the ED rep. Around halfway through the story plateaud but it was fine.
Darek is so sweet and a genuinely good person. Theo is all those hard edges but just needs someone to feel safe around. Idk how I feel about them long term but they’re cute.
As soon as Theo called Derek daddy though and dared called him snowdrop - immediate star reduction.There’s a 7 year age gap that’s not a big deal. Both just no.
Fav side characters were Nico (I want a book about him!!) and Avery. Shoutout to Dareks other teammates and Sabrina.
There was some repetition and also I felt that some things in the beginning were dropped w no explanation such as theos ED behaviours, but over all was a cute sweet story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a sweet, wonderful story! I don't know who my heart ached for more -- Derek or Théo -- both broken boys in need of some love, but they were exactly what the other needed <3
Derek's bi awakening is hilarious. He develops a hyper fixation on figure skating immediately after meeting Théo -- just for pure research purposes. Just a recreational hobby! Nothing to see here!!! But also, damn, Daddy Derek has a mouth on him when the time finally arrives 🥵 And Théo just eggs him on in the best way lol.
Théo had a lot of shit to work through to be able to take the leap with Derek and getting back into skating, but Derek was so sweet and supportive. I loved reading about these two!
I received an ARC of this book, review and opinion solely my own.
Derek's bi awakening is hilarious. He develops a hyper fixation on figure skating immediately after meeting Théo -- just for pure research purposes. Just a recreational hobby! Nothing to see here!!! But also, damn, Daddy Derek has a mouth on him when the time finally arrives 🥵 And Théo just eggs him on in the best way lol.
Théo had a lot of shit to work through to be able to take the leap with Derek and getting back into skating, but Derek was so sweet and supportive. I loved reading about these two!
I received an ARC of this book, review and opinion solely my own.
April 28, 2026
This book was addicting!
This story has the most incredible characters who are fully fleshed out, endearing, and you can’t help but root for them.
I was obsessed with the relationship between Théo & Derek. Derek was infatuated with Théo, his awakening was really well done.
“I’m here because I see you. And I’m not going anywhere just because you’re scared of being seen.” THE MAN you are Derek.
The sweet nickname “snowdrop” omg just read it I won’t spoil the meaning behind it.
The found family was also wonderful, all the characters were so 3D and jumped out off the page - I love them all.
The sweetness and pining was so cute, and the spice was spicing too of course.
I can’t wait to read more from this author!!!! 10/10!!!!
I received an ARC. Opinions are my own.
This story has the most incredible characters who are fully fleshed out, endearing, and you can’t help but root for them.
I was obsessed with the relationship between Théo & Derek. Derek was infatuated with Théo, his awakening was really well done.
“I’m here because I see you. And I’m not going anywhere just because you’re scared of being seen.” THE MAN you are Derek.
The sweet nickname “snowdrop” omg just read it I won’t spoil the meaning behind it.
The found family was also wonderful, all the characters were so 3D and jumped out off the page - I love them all.
The sweetness and pining was so cute, and the spice was spicing too of course.
I can’t wait to read more from this author!!!! 10/10!!!!
I received an ARC. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
"But I'm not here because I want to save you. I'm here because I see you. And I'm not going anywhere just because you're scared to be seen."
.
.
About to Bloom is, quite frankly, a hidden gem. And I am so glad I stumbled upon it. Following Derek and Theo's story, there was something so sweet and reverent about watching their love unfold. It's a testament to second chances and having patience, as the most prickly of people can blossom in warmth. For every sweet moment, there's an equally hot encounter, and for every heart-wrenching low, there's a euphoric high.
It's a well-balanced read that really captures what makes queer romance special.
.
.
About to Bloom is, quite frankly, a hidden gem. And I am so glad I stumbled upon it. Following Derek and Theo's story, there was something so sweet and reverent about watching their love unfold. It's a testament to second chances and having patience, as the most prickly of people can blossom in warmth. For every sweet moment, there's an equally hot encounter, and for every heart-wrenching low, there's a euphoric high.
It's a well-balanced read that really captures what makes queer romance special.
Review of advance copy received from Author
(Disclaimer: This is a review based on a ARC provided for review purposes.)
Mathéo (“Théo” to some) finds himself escaping to Chicago after the controversy surrounding him to find himself curious about his brother's teammate, Derek.
Derek find himself escaping pain (both physical and emotional) by fleeing to Chicago. Derek wants to sort himself out but when Théo enters the equation, something seems to make Derek reach out.
This book has everything from found family, two men wanting to heal, to a very sweet dog, to a yearning for two uncertain men wanting to explore what their situation is. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Mathéo (“Théo” to some) finds himself escaping to Chicago after the controversy surrounding him to find himself curious about his brother's teammate, Derek.
Derek find himself escaping pain (both physical and emotional) by fleeing to Chicago. Derek wants to sort himself out but when Théo enters the equation, something seems to make Derek reach out.
This book has everything from found family, two men wanting to heal, to a very sweet dog, to a yearning for two uncertain men wanting to explore what their situation is. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
April 25, 2026
Grumpy sunshine trope done right.
Derek is just a good guy, a decent guy, and who has his flaws and struggles. Thèo is a sweet hard who hides his sweets behind a prickly, sharp outside. Their chemistry is nice and Derek’s patience and stable warmth is something you just want to lean into yourself. Thèo feels very real, and you just want to hug him and tell him he can do it and he is alright, but most of all you want to yell “DON’T RUN”.
I am just missing that last struggle, that last connection that makes me go from “this is nice” to “wow this is awesome”.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Derek is just a good guy, a decent guy, and who has his flaws and struggles. Thèo is a sweet hard who hides his sweets behind a prickly, sharp outside. Their chemistry is nice and Derek’s patience and stable warmth is something you just want to lean into yourself. Thèo feels very real, and you just want to hug him and tell him he can do it and he is alright, but most of all you want to yell “DON’T RUN”.
I am just missing that last struggle, that last connection that makes me go from “this is nice” to “wow this is awesome”.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
Derek lost a lot in one moment - the first half of a hockey season - his cheating fiancee - his best friend. He's back playing hockey but worries about how much longer. A teammate's brother Theo enters his life and everything changes as his bi-awakening arrives. Theo has doubts about his career as a figure skater and thinks he's broken. He has built up a wall to keep people out. Derek who as a man is gentle and caring breaks the wall down and loves him with all his heart. Who could resist that? It's an emotional rollercoaster with lots of steam and heart opening. I received a copy of this through BookSirens and this is my voluntary opinion.
May 14, 2026
This story follows our 2 MMC’s whose lives completely imploded before they met.
Derek lost his best friend, fiancé and the sport he loves in 1 go. A year letter he is working himself so hard because has the sport back but he’s lonely and still healing.
Theo fled Canada to stay with his brother after everything became too much between relationships, his sport and his hearth.
Derek is everything Theo needs calm, dependable and so so loving.
This was a good story we had a broken boy, a healing journey, bi-awakening and it all worked so well together.
Derek lost his best friend, fiancé and the sport he loves in 1 go. A year letter he is working himself so hard because has the sport back but he’s lonely and still healing.
Theo fled Canada to stay with his brother after everything became too much between relationships, his sport and his hearth.
Derek is everything Theo needs calm, dependable and so so loving.
This was a good story we had a broken boy, a healing journey, bi-awakening and it all worked so well together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2026
What a perfect love story. Theo is a figure skater always hoping since a child to be in the Olympics. He's from Canada but after some personal travels comes to the States to stay with his brother, Avery a hockey player. Derek (Sully) is teamate/mentor to Avery. He's gone through a rough patch of his own. Theo offers to dog sit for Sully while he is at away games. A blossoming friendship turns into something more over time. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 23, 2026
very fun and cute!! i liked their development as a couple and as individuals, and in their sport as well. while this story was mainly focused on théo and his recovery, i do wish there was a bit more focus on derek and his recovery from his acl and how he coped with his fiancé and best friend cheating.
i always wish these books were longer because i feel like it was a bit rushed at the end and that it stopped abruptly, but i do just always want more no matter what.
derek and théo had such great banter and chemistry, i loved them so so much. this one was really enjoyable
i always wish these books were longer because i feel like it was a bit rushed at the end and that it stopped abruptly, but i do just always want more no matter what.
derek and théo had such great banter and chemistry, i loved them so so much. this one was really enjoyable
May 16, 2026
Theo and Derek. This was very cute. My only gripe is that instead of speed running through Theos career at the end I wish we got more of that in detail and not just info dump of “I did this and I placed that”. Some of the dialogue I kept being like “no real person speaks like this” and also “there’s a difference” was probably said like 30 times lol. But I love Derek and Theo together I wish we could’ve seen the team find out as well tbh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2026
4.5/5
I saw this book on Booktok and immediately downloaded it. I was absolutely obsessed with this book. I love Theo and Derek together. I love how Derek didn’t want to fix Theo and just wanted to love him. Him calling him Snowdrop had me screaming each time. I love the found family in this book. I will definitely be looking at more books by this author as I need more immediately
I saw this book on Booktok and immediately downloaded it. I was absolutely obsessed with this book. I love Theo and Derek together. I love how Derek didn’t want to fix Theo and just wanted to love him. Him calling him Snowdrop had me screaming each time. I love the found family in this book. I will definitely be looking at more books by this author as I need more immediately
April 26, 2026
About to Bloom is the first book in the new On The Brink series by Ash Jackson. This is a sexual awakening, hurt/comfort, opposites attract, found family read about Theo and Sully. I just loved this book, it's the first one I have read by this author and hopefully won't be the last.
May 5, 2026
Really loved this. Both characters had difficult pasts and worked to get past them. I loved Dereks loyalty and consistency. I loved seeing Theo work to let himself be happy- his struggles and issues were handled well by the author. Both characters felt believable.
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