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Minnesota Blue Herons #2
Dancing With Our Hands Tied
Not yet published
Expected 9 Nov 26
She's going to be my undoing.
After a last minute trade, I'm back in my home state playing on the team of my dreams with my childhood best friend. The Minnesota Blue Herons could be the second chance I need to fix my flailing hockey career, but I'll have to withstand the walking temptation that is my best friend's little sister, Grace Miller. With my career on the line and my past rearing its ugly head, I don’t have time for a relationship.
A summer as neighbors at the lake places her directly in my orbit, and she becomes impossible to resist. One night turns into a season of no-strings attached fun, and soon she’s the only thing in my world that makes sense. She’s my saving grace when the noise gets too loud and I can’t catch my breath. We said it was temporary, just a summer fling, but here I am, falling for the one girl I shouldn’t.
Author's Note: Meet the Minnesota Blue Herons professional hockey team! Dancing With Our Hands Tied is book two in an interconnected hockey romance series, featuring a plus size FMC and her brother's best friend.
Please be sure to check trigger warnings listed in the front of the book or available on the authors website. Take care of yourself. Your mental health matters more than a book.
A summer as neighbors at the lake places her directly in my orbit, and she becomes impossible to resist. One night turns into a season of no-strings attached fun, and soon she’s the only thing in my world that makes sense. She’s my saving grace when the noise gets too loud and I can’t catch my breath. We said it was temporary, just a summer fling, but here I am, falling for the one girl I shouldn’t.
Author's Note: Meet the Minnesota Blue Herons professional hockey team! Dancing With Our Hands Tied is book two in an interconnected hockey romance series, featuring a plus size FMC and her brother's best friend.
Please be sure to check trigger warnings listed in the front of the book or available on the authors website. Take care of yourself. Your mental health matters more than a book.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 9, 2026
About the author
Alice Daniels
9 books120 followersAlice Daniels is a born and raised Minnesotan who loves to write books based on the small town she grew up in. Her books are sweet, heartfelt, and sexy, with relatable characters.
As a child, she was an avid fiction reader, which evolved into a deep love for romance novels and the community surrounding them. She recently discovered a passion for putting her ideas into writing and decided to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an author.
She spends time with her family and friends when she’s not writing, especially on the lakes or outdoors in the summer.
Follow Alice on Facebook, Instagram, and Goodreads for book updates, teasers, and future releases!
As a child, she was an avid fiction reader, which evolved into a deep love for romance novels and the community surrounding them. She recently discovered a passion for putting her ideas into writing and decided to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an author.
She spends time with her family and friends when she’s not writing, especially on the lakes or outdoors in the summer.
Follow Alice on Facebook, Instagram, and Goodreads for book updates, teasers, and future releases!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 26, 2026
Book two of the Minnesota Blue Herons hockey romance series, this book focuses on player Adam Davison and Grace Miller. Adam is the best friend of Grace’s big brother, fellow MBH player Calvin Miller, and they’ve been friends since childhood. When Adam is traded to the Blue Herons, he’s given a chance to return to his hometown and face the demons of his past — specifically, the fact that his mom died at the hands of his abusive father. Adam never processed that trauma and now it’s manifesting as panic attacks and anxiety at playing the game that he loves so much. It’s a good thing he’s got Grace there to help him process, as the relationship they insisted was “just a summer fling” progresses into something more.
I loved seeing men’s mental health acknowledged in this story, especially with a professional athlete. Too many times, men are asked to be tougher than they are, so it’s important to understand how trauma affects a person, years and years after the initial event. As a result, though, I do feel as though Adam got all of the character development in this book, whereas Grace remains a static (though lovely) character. Grace’s fears about being tossed aside are mentioned often but it never feels like a real threat within the plot. Yes, it’s pointed out that it’s not Grace’s job nor place to “fix” Adam (and amen to that!), it still feels like her role in this story is less the female main character and more an avenue to make Adam realize how much he needs help.
[ SLIGHT SPOILER!! ] I also wish there was a more satisfying ending to the subplot featuring Adam’s deadbeat dad, who keeps reaching out to Adam. I spent the entire book thinking more was going to happen than just phone calls from prison, but… alas, I remain disappointed. I’m also waiting to see Adam’s sister, Zoey, tell off her rude fiancé, Vincent, but I feel like that’s coming up in the series.
The highlight for me was Adam’s kitten, Poppie, who he rescues after a bonfire at his lakehouse. Anytime you include a tiny black kitten in a novel who steals the show, I’m sold, lol. Poppie is also a great way to show Adam’s growth, giving him something to care for and focus on that’s not Grace, and a way for our two leads to bond later on.
Overall, this feels more like a small town romance than a hockey romance. If you enjoy both genres, you’ll like this read.
I loved seeing men’s mental health acknowledged in this story, especially with a professional athlete. Too many times, men are asked to be tougher than they are, so it’s important to understand how trauma affects a person, years and years after the initial event. As a result, though, I do feel as though Adam got all of the character development in this book, whereas Grace remains a static (though lovely) character. Grace’s fears about being tossed aside are mentioned often but it never feels like a real threat within the plot. Yes, it’s pointed out that it’s not Grace’s job nor place to “fix” Adam (and amen to that!), it still feels like her role in this story is less the female main character and more an avenue to make Adam realize how much he needs help.
[ SLIGHT SPOILER!! ] I also wish there was a more satisfying ending to the subplot featuring Adam’s deadbeat dad, who keeps reaching out to Adam. I spent the entire book thinking more was going to happen than just phone calls from prison, but… alas, I remain disappointed. I’m also waiting to see Adam’s sister, Zoey, tell off her rude fiancé, Vincent, but I feel like that’s coming up in the series.
The highlight for me was Adam’s kitten, Poppie, who he rescues after a bonfire at his lakehouse. Anytime you include a tiny black kitten in a novel who steals the show, I’m sold, lol. Poppie is also a great way to show Adam’s growth, giving him something to care for and focus on that’s not Grace, and a way for our two leads to bond later on.
Overall, this feels more like a small town romance than a hockey romance. If you enjoy both genres, you’ll like this read.
October 26, 2026
This was fantastic!!! I love Alice’s writing, I love this series!! Seeing everyone again was so much fun! And seeing little crumbs for potential future couples is always one of my favorite things!! This found family is so close knit and important to each other and that really shines through in this one! And as always!! I love a book set in MN!! I’ll allow the WI cabin situation ONLY bc it was so important to Grace and Adam (mostly joking lol).
Grace and Adam are everything!!!! They were SO MUCH FUN!!! And they were also so soft and patient and kind with each other! Adam needed a lot of support and seeing him get that so easily with Grace was amazing. His mental health journey was not easy, but he worked so hard. I’m so glad Grace kept pushing him, gently, to seek help bc she could be supportive but she couldn’t be his only outlet. And that was SO important for BOTH of them! I also loved seeing Adam CHOOSE Grace in a way that she deserved. She was scared of being left behind, but he wasn’t ever going to let that happen.
I can’t wait for whatever and whoever is next!!! If it’s either of the couple I think it could be we are in for a TREAT!
Thanks so much to Alice Daniels for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Grace and Adam are everything!!!! They were SO MUCH FUN!!! And they were also so soft and patient and kind with each other! Adam needed a lot of support and seeing him get that so easily with Grace was amazing. His mental health journey was not easy, but he worked so hard. I’m so glad Grace kept pushing him, gently, to seek help bc she could be supportive but she couldn’t be his only outlet. And that was SO important for BOTH of them! I also loved seeing Adam CHOOSE Grace in a way that she deserved. She was scared of being left behind, but he wasn’t ever going to let that happen.
I can’t wait for whatever and whoever is next!!! If it’s either of the couple I think it could be we are in for a TREAT!
Thanks so much to Alice Daniels for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really appreciated the men’s mental health representation portrayed in the story - it’s refreshing to see more and more sport romances embracing this. Especially when the topic is still taboo within a lot of male-dominated sports.
‘Dancing With Our Hands Tied’ is book 2 in the Minnesota Blue Herons series and is a great continuation of the MBH universe. A definite read if you really enjoyed book 1.
Book 2 sees our FMC, Grace, spending a wild summer of no-strings-attached romance with the newly transferred right winger, Adam - our MMC. One big problem with this fling though, Grace is his best friend’s little sister and is off-limits.
Both our FMC and MMC navigate their complicated feelings personal feelings, and the feelings for each other. Grace is shutting herself out of the possibility of more than friends with benefits as she believes she is not capable of being loved. And Adam is struggling to face his traumatic past since returning to his home town. The only comfort he has is the connection he has developed with Grace - but he realises he can’t put that burden on her to manage his mental state.
This is a story of friends to lovers, struggling with your past and grief, and coming to terms with it being okay to ask for help when you are struggling.
Great for fans of the following tropes:
• best friends sister
• hidden romance
• chaotic bisexual brat FMC
• mental health representation
• HEA
• no third act break-up
• plus size representation
Overall, I very much enjoyed seeing more of the supporting characters and the friend group as a whole interacting with each other and the two leads. The world building in book 2 is a lot more elevated than book 1. It makes me excited for which potential couple we get to see in book 3 (I really hope it’s Trigg and Hattie next)!
‘Dancing With Our Hands Tied’ is book 2 in the Minnesota Blue Herons series and is a great continuation of the MBH universe. A definite read if you really enjoyed book 1.
Book 2 sees our FMC, Grace, spending a wild summer of no-strings-attached romance with the newly transferred right winger, Adam - our MMC. One big problem with this fling though, Grace is his best friend’s little sister and is off-limits.
Both our FMC and MMC navigate their complicated feelings personal feelings, and the feelings for each other. Grace is shutting herself out of the possibility of more than friends with benefits as she believes she is not capable of being loved. And Adam is struggling to face his traumatic past since returning to his home town. The only comfort he has is the connection he has developed with Grace - but he realises he can’t put that burden on her to manage his mental state.
This is a story of friends to lovers, struggling with your past and grief, and coming to terms with it being okay to ask for help when you are struggling.
Great for fans of the following tropes:
• best friends sister
• hidden romance
• chaotic bisexual brat FMC
• mental health representation
• HEA
• no third act break-up
• plus size representation
Overall, I very much enjoyed seeing more of the supporting characters and the friend group as a whole interacting with each other and the two leads. The world building in book 2 is a lot more elevated than book 1. It makes me excited for which potential couple we get to see in book 3 (I really hope it’s Trigg and Hattie next)!
October 25, 2026
Oh I love Alice Daniels books so much; and this one had me in all my feels. From the beginning, you find yourself wanting to wrap your arms around Adam (& his sister Zoey). They live through the unimaginable, and find family with their neighbors - The Millers.
Fast forward to present day, Adam purchases a lake house near the Miller’s, and starts spending time with Grace - their daughter, his best friend/teammates sister. Flirting turns into summer fling turns into full blown relationship.
I loved the growth of both characters in this story. Adam is struggling mentally with his dad’s reappearance into his life, his new team, and this new relationship with Grace. And Grace is so used to being discarded, that she keeps waiting for the bottom to drop. When she pushes for more; it seems like she was right when Adam freezes. It is only a matter of time before his mental health becomes so debilitating that he needs Grace to help him through it. Realizing that what they have is so much for than a fling; then finally make it official.
What was so different from her other books is that Adam isn’t all-in immediately. Yes, he has feelings, but he’s fighting his own demons that keep him from this. I didn’t love that he was relying on Grace as his talisman, but he was just so stubborn. I felt like it put a lot on her shoulders. But, I do appreciate that she kept speaking truth to him and encouraged him to get the help she couldn’t give him - and stood by through it all.
I can’t wait to find out what happens with Hattie & Trigg….AND Calvin & Zoey. I have some guesses and I can’t wait to see if I’m right!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
📖: arc team
Fast forward to present day, Adam purchases a lake house near the Miller’s, and starts spending time with Grace - their daughter, his best friend/teammates sister. Flirting turns into summer fling turns into full blown relationship.
I loved the growth of both characters in this story. Adam is struggling mentally with his dad’s reappearance into his life, his new team, and this new relationship with Grace. And Grace is so used to being discarded, that she keeps waiting for the bottom to drop. When she pushes for more; it seems like she was right when Adam freezes. It is only a matter of time before his mental health becomes so debilitating that he needs Grace to help him through it. Realizing that what they have is so much for than a fling; then finally make it official.
What was so different from her other books is that Adam isn’t all-in immediately. Yes, he has feelings, but he’s fighting his own demons that keep him from this. I didn’t love that he was relying on Grace as his talisman, but he was just so stubborn. I felt like it put a lot on her shoulders. But, I do appreciate that she kept speaking truth to him and encouraged him to get the help she couldn’t give him - and stood by through it all.
I can’t wait to find out what happens with Hattie & Trigg….AND Calvin & Zoey. I have some guesses and I can’t wait to see if I’m right!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
📖: arc team
Review of advance copy received from Author
***ARC Review***
Always a fun time jumping back into this Minnesota Blue Herons friend group. I'm really enjoying this series as it unfolds. Book 2 was Grace & Adam's book. We get brother's best friend, plus size FMC, and all the found family vibes, and a black cat, too! It has just the perfect amount of sneaking around that comes with the friends with benefits trope. Because at what point does a summer fling no longer constitute a summer fling?
This book was actually pretty emotionally heavy. The book starts off with a glimpse into Adam and his twin sister, Zoey's past. They had a rough go of it as teenagers, and it's a tough chapter to get through, but it sets up the reader to understand the connection that Adam and Zoey have with neighboring siblings Calvin and Grace. And it's this traumatic past that has Adam facing some mental and emotional demons as he comes back to his hometown after being traded to the Minnesota Blue Herons professional hockey team. As difficult as it can be sometimes to read about on page panic attacks and anxiety, this book did a really good job of frankly, normalizing it. Adam sought out resources and treatment and publicly faced it with his teammates. Really refreshing to see this in fiction as well.
Lastly, we were totally left with not one, but basically two set ups for future books in the series. I've got my theories about Trigg and Hattie, but I honestly might be more excited to see what happens with Calvin and Zoey! Thank you to Alice Daniels for the advanced copy!
Always a fun time jumping back into this Minnesota Blue Herons friend group. I'm really enjoying this series as it unfolds. Book 2 was Grace & Adam's book. We get brother's best friend, plus size FMC, and all the found family vibes, and a black cat, too! It has just the perfect amount of sneaking around that comes with the friends with benefits trope. Because at what point does a summer fling no longer constitute a summer fling?
This book was actually pretty emotionally heavy. The book starts off with a glimpse into Adam and his twin sister, Zoey's past. They had a rough go of it as teenagers, and it's a tough chapter to get through, but it sets up the reader to understand the connection that Adam and Zoey have with neighboring siblings Calvin and Grace. And it's this traumatic past that has Adam facing some mental and emotional demons as he comes back to his hometown after being traded to the Minnesota Blue Herons professional hockey team. As difficult as it can be sometimes to read about on page panic attacks and anxiety, this book did a really good job of frankly, normalizing it. Adam sought out resources and treatment and publicly faced it with his teammates. Really refreshing to see this in fiction as well.
Lastly, we were totally left with not one, but basically two set ups for future books in the series. I've got my theories about Trigg and Hattie, but I honestly might be more excited to see what happens with Calvin and Zoey! Thank you to Alice Daniels for the advanced copy!
October 31, 2026
Thank you to the author, Alice Daniels, and Love & Notes PR for the opportunity to arc read this!
Dancing with Our Hands Tied, is an easy read without losing the depth and characters development! I really enjoyed Adam and Grace’s story, their romance felt so vulnerable and genuine. Even with their individual struggles both characters (really all of the characters) maintained a level of maturity and emotional depth that I LOVE to see especially with characters in their late 20s!
Adam is battling severe mental health issues due to unresolved trauma from his teenage years. Throughout the story he tries to manage his issues on his own and doesn’t grasp the severity or how massively they are affecting him and it’s such a mirror for how many people in real life unknowingly downplay their mental health. I also was super impressed that this story showcased a man, especially one in a field that tends to stereotype mental health, doing the work to better himself! Now, Grace is my absolute favorite!!! Ughh I loved her character so much… bisexual, plus-size, confident, supportive, and self-aware of her own insecurities and struggles. Grace just wants to love and be loved deeply and Alice Daniels portrayed the insecurities of that perfectly while still maintaining a character who is confident and supportive.
Overall, this story is a vulnerable romance with amazing mental health and plus size representation! If you like hockey romance, brothers best friend, friends with benefits, mental health representation, and plus size representation than this story is perfect for you!! 🩵
Dancing with Our Hands Tied, is an easy read without losing the depth and characters development! I really enjoyed Adam and Grace’s story, their romance felt so vulnerable and genuine. Even with their individual struggles both characters (really all of the characters) maintained a level of maturity and emotional depth that I LOVE to see especially with characters in their late 20s!
Adam is battling severe mental health issues due to unresolved trauma from his teenage years. Throughout the story he tries to manage his issues on his own and doesn’t grasp the severity or how massively they are affecting him and it’s such a mirror for how many people in real life unknowingly downplay their mental health. I also was super impressed that this story showcased a man, especially one in a field that tends to stereotype mental health, doing the work to better himself! Now, Grace is my absolute favorite!!! Ughh I loved her character so much… bisexual, plus-size, confident, supportive, and self-aware of her own insecurities and struggles. Grace just wants to love and be loved deeply and Alice Daniels portrayed the insecurities of that perfectly while still maintaining a character who is confident and supportive.
Overall, this story is a vulnerable romance with amazing mental health and plus size representation! If you like hockey romance, brothers best friend, friends with benefits, mental health representation, and plus size representation than this story is perfect for you!! 🩵
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dancing With Our Hands Tied By Alice Daniels
⭐️5/5
🌶 3/5
Arc read.
This is the second book in the Minnesota Blue Herons Hockey Series. In this book we follow Grace and Adam. Grace is a guidance counselor and likes to work at the bar near her parents lake house. Adam is a star hockey player who has just bought a lake house as well. They have been in each other life for ever. So has Grace's brother Calvin and Adam's sister Zoey, the four of them have thick as thieves. While at the lake house they decided to have a friends with benefits relationship for the summer. Adam has a lot to deal with mentally as he had huge trauma and being away from everyone and all of a sudden being back home is a lot. I loved how Grace helped him with his mental health. I loved seeing Grace and Adam relationship evolved and how she was there for him. I also loved Poppie.
The best thing about Alice Daniels writing is her found family aspect in her writing.
Tropes
- Brothers best friend
- He wears her hair tie on his wrist
- No third act break up
- Plus sized FMC
- Men's mental health Rep
- Hockey Romance
- Summer fling/ FWB
“Last chance, firecracker. There’s going to be no stopping me if I get my hands on you.”
“Stop thinking so much and just fucking kiss me.”
Is you calling me a dumbass a new form of foreplay for you?
I’m not sure how I feel about it
Careful, that might earn you a spanking.
And that’s a bad thing?
⭐️5/5
🌶 3/5
Arc read.
This is the second book in the Minnesota Blue Herons Hockey Series. In this book we follow Grace and Adam. Grace is a guidance counselor and likes to work at the bar near her parents lake house. Adam is a star hockey player who has just bought a lake house as well. They have been in each other life for ever. So has Grace's brother Calvin and Adam's sister Zoey, the four of them have thick as thieves. While at the lake house they decided to have a friends with benefits relationship for the summer. Adam has a lot to deal with mentally as he had huge trauma and being away from everyone and all of a sudden being back home is a lot. I loved how Grace helped him with his mental health. I loved seeing Grace and Adam relationship evolved and how she was there for him. I also loved Poppie.
The best thing about Alice Daniels writing is her found family aspect in her writing.
Tropes
- Brothers best friend
- He wears her hair tie on his wrist
- No third act break up
- Plus sized FMC
- Men's mental health Rep
- Hockey Romance
- Summer fling/ FWB
“Last chance, firecracker. There’s going to be no stopping me if I get my hands on you.”
“Stop thinking so much and just fucking kiss me.”
Is you calling me a dumbass a new form of foreplay for you?
I’m not sure how I feel about it
Careful, that might earn you a spanking.
And that’s a bad thing?
October 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As usual, I leapt at the opportunity to read an Alice Daniels ARC 💛
As always, the emotional depth of Alice’s characters completely floored me. The mental health and trauma rep in Adam’s past was really sensitively covered and navigates:
* Childhood trauma (with his twin)
* Loss of a parent
* Harassment from his Dad (in prison)
* Move back to Minnesota to join a new team
* Growing feelings for Grace as their summer fling becomes something more.
You could say, there’s a LOT going on.
Grace ultimately helps Adam tackle his gradually debilitating mental health, encourages him to seek professional help too and becomes a safe place for him. I was also really proud of Grace for recognising and standing up for her self worth.
Another thing I LOVE about Alice Daniels books are the 10/10 found family vibes. It was great to see Fletcher, Lydia and more from the Blue Herons… special soft spot for Trigg - what an absolute sweetie - and Calvin… pleaseeeeee tell me we get their books next?!
A huge thanks again to @authoralicedaniels for the opportunity to read Dancing With Our Hands Tied early.
Release Date: 9th November 2026
[ Romance Reader | ARC Reader | Advanced Readers Copy | Hockey Romance | Brother’s Best Friends | Found Family | Book Review | Book Recommendations | Alice Daniels Author ]
#advancedreadercopy #hockeyromance #bookreview #romancereader
As usual, I leapt at the opportunity to read an Alice Daniels ARC 💛
As always, the emotional depth of Alice’s characters completely floored me. The mental health and trauma rep in Adam’s past was really sensitively covered and navigates:
* Childhood trauma (with his twin)
* Loss of a parent
* Harassment from his Dad (in prison)
* Move back to Minnesota to join a new team
* Growing feelings for Grace as their summer fling becomes something more.
You could say, there’s a LOT going on.
Grace ultimately helps Adam tackle his gradually debilitating mental health, encourages him to seek professional help too and becomes a safe place for him. I was also really proud of Grace for recognising and standing up for her self worth.
Another thing I LOVE about Alice Daniels books are the 10/10 found family vibes. It was great to see Fletcher, Lydia and more from the Blue Herons… special soft spot for Trigg - what an absolute sweetie - and Calvin… pleaseeeeee tell me we get their books next?!
A huge thanks again to @authoralicedaniels for the opportunity to read Dancing With Our Hands Tied early.
Release Date: 9th November 2026
[ Romance Reader | ARC Reader | Advanced Readers Copy | Hockey Romance | Brother’s Best Friends | Found Family | Book Review | Book Recommendations | Alice Daniels Author ]
#advancedreadercopy #hockeyromance #bookreview #romancereader
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ooooookaaayyyy Alice! First and foremost, I have really liked every book I've read by Alice Daniels- so I was SO INCREDIBLY EXCITED to get an ARC for this book!
Adam and Grace were so precious. I loved how Grace was his safe space throughout the issues he was having. I loved how he straight up had that golden retriever energy for Grace. I love that most of Alice's books feature strong, plus size gals without being obnoxious about it. Like there's some mention that they're bigger but typically the women are no apologies about it and it's not repeated over and over- which I really appreciate. The dynamic between them was really sweet, and seeing how it went from friends to where they ended up was wonderful. Also, Grace coming in all protective on that jail phone call? SWOON.
This was, by far, the spiciest book I've read by Alice. I love some spice, but I will admit there were a few times where I rolled my eyes, simply because it felt like it was getting a little excessive. Having said that, the scenes were well written and fit with the theme of the story, so it wasn't like they were just put on the page to be there. This is really the only reason it wasn't a five-star read for me.
I don't want to put any spoilers in, but I'm super excited to see what comes next in this series. Calvin, maybe? Or Trigg? ::impatiently taps fingers::
Adam and Grace were so precious. I loved how Grace was his safe space throughout the issues he was having. I loved how he straight up had that golden retriever energy for Grace. I love that most of Alice's books feature strong, plus size gals without being obnoxious about it. Like there's some mention that they're bigger but typically the women are no apologies about it and it's not repeated over and over- which I really appreciate. The dynamic between them was really sweet, and seeing how it went from friends to where they ended up was wonderful. Also, Grace coming in all protective on that jail phone call? SWOON.
This was, by far, the spiciest book I've read by Alice. I love some spice, but I will admit there were a few times where I rolled my eyes, simply because it felt like it was getting a little excessive. Having said that, the scenes were well written and fit with the theme of the story, so it wasn't like they were just put on the page to be there. This is really the only reason it wasn't a five-star read for me.
I don't want to put any spoilers in, but I'm super excited to see what comes next in this series. Calvin, maybe? Or Trigg? ::impatiently taps fingers::
October 26, 2026
Thank you to author Alice Daniel’s for this ARC opportunity.
This book was so good and I loved reading Adam’s and Graces story. Who doesn’t love a brothers best friend trope. Add in the fact the my girl is plus sized and that hockey is involved and you got me.
Adam was very troubled and you can see that he had u resolved issues from his childhood. Adam was recently traded to the local Minnesota professional hockey team and he was finally going to play with his best friend. Adam had some highs and lows and honestly i was just finally happy when he got some help. I loved the support he had from his friends and well as his coach and his girlfriend.
Grace was my bisexual plus size baddie. She had her head on her shoulders. She also just wanted to be loved and chosen but was not reeking of desperation. Grace was Calvin’s little sister and in turn there was that unspoken rule that you don’t date family and friends siblings. Grace also saw that she had a thing for Adam and I love how she dealt with everything.
I can’t wait for everyone to read this book. The mental health rep and plus size rep pulled me in and I can’t wait to see what the author has in store next.
This book was so good and I loved reading Adam’s and Graces story. Who doesn’t love a brothers best friend trope. Add in the fact the my girl is plus sized and that hockey is involved and you got me.
Adam was very troubled and you can see that he had u resolved issues from his childhood. Adam was recently traded to the local Minnesota professional hockey team and he was finally going to play with his best friend. Adam had some highs and lows and honestly i was just finally happy when he got some help. I loved the support he had from his friends and well as his coach and his girlfriend.
Grace was my bisexual plus size baddie. She had her head on her shoulders. She also just wanted to be loved and chosen but was not reeking of desperation. Grace was Calvin’s little sister and in turn there was that unspoken rule that you don’t date family and friends siblings. Grace also saw that she had a thing for Adam and I love how she dealt with everything.
I can’t wait for everyone to read this book. The mental health rep and plus size rep pulled me in and I can’t wait to see what the author has in store next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC received for an honest review.
I always love an Alice Daniels book, they’re always such easy reads but without missing out on character or story depth.
Adam was so troubled throughout this book and as myself and I’m sure many others will be able to attest to, reaching out for help is never an easy task. He manages it, along with the help of Grace, his coach & his friends.
Grace is fun, flirty & the most loving, generous person. She is constantly there for everyone, even to her own detriment. Unfortunately she hasn’t received love like she deserves from previous partners and it’s left her with some insecurities. Together, Grace & Adam work on themselves and heal to be the best they can be for each other.
I love the village that the characters in this series have & am already looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
If you love-
Brothers best friend
Friends with benefits
Mental health rep
Plus size FMC
Then this book is for you!!!
Thank you to Alice for another ARC opportunity, appreciate you queen 🫶🏻
Happy Reading Besties xoxo
I always love an Alice Daniels book, they’re always such easy reads but without missing out on character or story depth.
Adam was so troubled throughout this book and as myself and I’m sure many others will be able to attest to, reaching out for help is never an easy task. He manages it, along with the help of Grace, his coach & his friends.
Grace is fun, flirty & the most loving, generous person. She is constantly there for everyone, even to her own detriment. Unfortunately she hasn’t received love like she deserves from previous partners and it’s left her with some insecurities. Together, Grace & Adam work on themselves and heal to be the best they can be for each other.
I love the village that the characters in this series have & am already looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
If you love-
Brothers best friend
Friends with benefits
Mental health rep
Plus size FMC
Then this book is for you!!!
Thank you to Alice for another ARC opportunity, appreciate you queen 🫶🏻
Happy Reading Besties xoxo
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited to return to the world of the Minnesota Blue Herons, this time for Grace and Adam’s story!
Watching them grow together was beautiful, especially seeing Grace support Adam as he works through his anxiety, panic attacks, and the struggles connected to his past. I loved how Alice Daniels handled his mental health journey and didn’t shy away from the emotional, difficult parts of the story.
This is an emotionally heavy read, so be mindful of that going in. However, it’s also one of the things I appreciated most about the book. It felt meaningful and showed just how important it is to have people who support you through life’s hardest moments.
We all need a Grace and the whole Blue Herons team in our lives! I cannot wait for the series to continue.
Thank you, Alice Daniels, for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Watching them grow together was beautiful, especially seeing Grace support Adam as he works through his anxiety, panic attacks, and the struggles connected to his past. I loved how Alice Daniels handled his mental health journey and didn’t shy away from the emotional, difficult parts of the story.
This is an emotionally heavy read, so be mindful of that going in. However, it’s also one of the things I appreciated most about the book. It felt meaningful and showed just how important it is to have people who support you through life’s hardest moments.
We all need a Grace and the whole Blue Herons team in our lives! I cannot wait for the series to continue.
Thank you, Alice Daniels, for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 1, 2026
*ARC*
I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I blushed and then I cried again. This is the second book in the Minnesota Blue Herons series and I am obsessed with this team and this hockey family.
Adam has been through it from childhood and Grace has always been Cal’s little sister… until this summer.
Grace is confident and chaos is in the best ways, but still a girls girl and I loved her on a deep level. While Adam’s return to Minnesota after being traded is bringing up his past in ways he wasn’t ready to deal with— but come to a head quickly.
Their journey from spicy fling to forever love (also just as spicy) is one for the ages. The added impact of mental health and seeking help is so important. This little hockey family in this series is constant support and love and seems to always be looking at setting up each other and I cannot WAIT to see who’s next on the series 🥰
I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I blushed and then I cried again. This is the second book in the Minnesota Blue Herons series and I am obsessed with this team and this hockey family.
Adam has been through it from childhood and Grace has always been Cal’s little sister… until this summer.
Grace is confident and chaos is in the best ways, but still a girls girl and I loved her on a deep level. While Adam’s return to Minnesota after being traded is bringing up his past in ways he wasn’t ready to deal with— but come to a head quickly.
Their journey from spicy fling to forever love (also just as spicy) is one for the ages. The added impact of mental health and seeking help is so important. This little hockey family in this series is constant support and love and seems to always be looking at setting up each other and I cannot WAIT to see who’s next on the series 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly didn’t think I could find it in my heart to love another couple as much as I love Fletcher and Lydia, but I do. This book is incredible. Adam’s struggles are outlined and treated so beautifully and respectfully it’s incredible. His growth throughout the book is amazing and something men should really strive for.
I had butterflies throughout the story… Grace is a beautiful character who you can resonate with, and it’s cute how Adam tried to fight his feelings for a while!
Highlights of this for me are:
⛸️ Actual chapter titles (I think it’s cute AF)
⛸️ Realistic FMC
⛸️ Emotionally mature(ish) MMC
⛸️ Brother’s best friend
⛸️ No third act break up
⛸️ Non-repetitive spicy scenes
⛸️ HEA
I had butterflies throughout the story… Grace is a beautiful character who you can resonate with, and it’s cute how Adam tried to fight his feelings for a while!
Highlights of this for me are:
⛸️ Actual chapter titles (I think it’s cute AF)
⛸️ Realistic FMC
⛸️ Emotionally mature(ish) MMC
⛸️ Brother’s best friend
⛸️ No third act break up
⛸️ Non-repetitive spicy scenes
⛸️ HEA
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC Copy — Another book by Alice Daniels that I absolutely ATE UP!! After reading the first book in this series, I was completely hooked and couldn’t wait to dive into all the potential love stories waiting for us. And let me tell you, Adam and Grace did NOT disappoint! The angst, the longing, the smexy scenes?!?! CHEF’S KISS!
I loved getting to learn more about Adam’s backstory, but DANG, THAT PROLOGUE!! My heart was not ready! One of my favorite things about this story was seeing how friends truly can become family, and I loved watching that unfold. I adored Adam and Grace so much, and now I’m even more invested in this series!
I’m already looking forward to the next two books and can’t wait to see what Alice Daniels has in store for us!
I loved getting to learn more about Adam’s backstory, but DANG, THAT PROLOGUE!! My heart was not ready! One of my favorite things about this story was seeing how friends truly can become family, and I loved watching that unfold. I adored Adam and Grace so much, and now I’m even more invested in this series!
I’m already looking forward to the next two books and can’t wait to see what Alice Daniels has in store for us!
Review of advance copy
This book was such a beautiful ride of watching two childhood friends fall in love. The way Adam and Grace fall for each other is so well written that despite it being a book I can believe this is how people who have known each other their whole lives would get together. Cat dad representation is always a plus. Overall this book had so many scenes, elements, and dialogues that felt so real that despite me fully reminding myself this is a fictional story, it made me believe I was really hearing about a real life couple getting together.
I joined this book series without reading the prior novel, but this has just made me want to read it so much more. Alice has written some incredible characters and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
I joined this book series without reading the prior novel, but this has just made me want to read it so much more. Alice has written some incredible characters and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
October 28, 2026
Oh Goodness Adam and Grace were a delight to read, Adam has a tramatic past that he was able to escape from, until he was traded back to his home state playing on the NHL team with his best friends, sounds like a dream right? It wasn’t easy for Adam he has alot to navigate through but with Grace by his side she makes everything better and throw in an adorable kitten and how couldn’t you love it! Mental Health is a big focal point in the story line and I feel like it was handled with alot of care which I appreciate it. I’m excited to see which couple we get next outta the Minnesota Blue Herons!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yet another alice daniels book I read in a day. Literally sneaking in chapters in between meetings.
There is nothing I love more than a big bumble that needs some love & that’s exactly what Adam is. Plus, who doesn’t love a best friends sibling storyline as well.
PLUS, I want Gracie to be my best friend. She’s truly an icon & I would also love to just drill popsicles as well.
Like I said, yet another book by her I cannot put down. I cannot WAIT for the rest of this series…especially considering the epilogue 👀
There is nothing I love more than a big bumble that needs some love & that’s exactly what Adam is. Plus, who doesn’t love a best friends sibling storyline as well.
PLUS, I want Gracie to be my best friend. She’s truly an icon & I would also love to just drill popsicles as well.
Like I said, yet another book by her I cannot put down. I cannot WAIT for the rest of this series…especially considering the epilogue 👀
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Alice Daniels for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a quick and enjoyable read. I really liked both MCs and felt a particular affinity to Grace, I was really rooting for her and I will always love a cat dad.
I thought Adam's struggle with his mental health was handled well and enjoyed this representation not just with male mental health but within sport as well.
I also enjoyed getting to know the side characters more and am looking forward to reading their stories. Trigg and Hattie in particular!
This was a quick and enjoyable read. I really liked both MCs and felt a particular affinity to Grace, I was really rooting for her and I will always love a cat dad.
I thought Adam's struggle with his mental health was handled well and enjoyed this representation not just with male mental health but within sport as well.
I also enjoyed getting to know the side characters more and am looking forward to reading their stories. Trigg and Hattie in particular!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this addition to the series much more than the first, but I’ve found myself really enjoying how easy it is to read Alice Daniels’ books. Sometimes you need a good pallete cleanser in between reading dark and heavy books. I loved the FMC, and the MMC is an absolute cinnamon roll. The pacing could use some work, as I feel the last 30% of the book felt rushed and info-dumping.
That said, I still really enjoyed it! I am so grateful to Alice for including me on her ARC team. Keep the boy aquarium boys coming!
That said, I still really enjoyed it! I am so grateful to Alice for including me on her ARC team. Keep the boy aquarium boys coming!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grace and Adam (and Poppie!!!) are filled with heart, history, and swooooon. This book showcases anxiety in athletics in such a beautiful way which really made me feel so hard for Adam. He falls so so hard for his Gracie. I wouldn’t recommend this for anyone struggling with PTSD or heavy trauma just because it’s very emotional at times.
This book was way spicier than the first book in the series because these two cannot keep their hands to themselves at all lmao. Poppie’s shenanigans had me kicking my feet but thats what you get for spoiling your kittens.
This book was way spicier than the first book in the series because these two cannot keep their hands to themselves at all lmao. Poppie’s shenanigans had me kicking my feet but thats what you get for spoiling your kittens.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ruin the Friendship fue una lectura ligera y divertida pero Dancing with Our Hands Tied fue super emocional y hermosa al mismo tiempo. Cuando leemos ESE capítulo del pasado, lo único que quería era abrazar a Adam y Zoey. Me sigue encantando la dinámica del resto del grupo, amo todas las pistas para los próximos libros... Calvin y Zoey? Yendo. Grace me encantó como fmc, literalmente la luz de sus ojos
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've been a fan of Alice for a while. However, I'm sorry to say this does not live up to her brand of amazing. It simply doesn't not. Storylines are not fleshed out properly and many very interesting dynamics are not explored in depth. At one point it becomes boring, for lack of a better word. It's my personal opinion ofc but I couldn't feel connected to these characters at all. This series in particular hasn't clicked very well for me.
October 24, 2026
After the first book being my top read of the year, this kind of fell flat for me. I found myself being more interested in the rest of the characters stories instead of the MMC & FMC. When I was 70% through the book and the MMC still hadn’t gotten actual help, I was struggling.
I am very excited about the other books in this series, as I love Alice’s writing and the other characters in these books 🫶🏼
I am very excited about the other books in this series, as I love Alice’s writing and the other characters in these books 🫶🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2026
ALICE DANIELS YOU DID IT AGAIN! I absolutely loved the story between Grace and Adam. Another friends to lovers, including some found family, a chaotic plus size FMC, BROTHERS BEST FRIEND, and the cutest lil kitten, this book truly had me hooked!
I loved the continuation of the Blue Herons series and I thought the timeline and plot was well balanced with spice and fun, with a lil sprinkle of familial trauma!
I thought Grace (FMC) was peak brat energy fr and so goofy about it! While Adam (MMC) was truly cinnamon roll on the streets, tamer in the sheets! 👀
I cannot wait for Minnesota Blue Herons 3!
I loved the continuation of the Blue Herons series and I thought the timeline and plot was well balanced with spice and fun, with a lil sprinkle of familial trauma!
I thought Grace (FMC) was peak brat energy fr and so goofy about it! While Adam (MMC) was truly cinnamon roll on the streets, tamer in the sheets! 👀
I cannot wait for Minnesota Blue Herons 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐4🌶️
Alice did it again! She wrote another amazing story!
Dancing With Our Hands Tied is a beautiful, emotional friends to lovers romance! I love Adam and Grace's story! I felt every emotion throughout this story! It's beautifully written and captivating! The spice is definitely spicy! I love this story! I love this series! Can't wait for the next book!
Thank you Alice for including me as an ARC reader!!
Alice did it again! She wrote another amazing story!
Dancing With Our Hands Tied is a beautiful, emotional friends to lovers romance! I love Adam and Grace's story! I felt every emotion throughout this story! It's beautifully written and captivating! The spice is definitely spicy! I love this story! I love this series! Can't wait for the next book!
Thank you Alice for including me as an ARC reader!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all I’m not a big sports romance reader but this book has me almost changing my mind about them! This was an amazing read! The way it has mental health in it, says a lot about the author. I love how they help each other through everything! Makes me want to write something about what I’ve been going through with my mom dementia! I mean this is different but it’s….. inspired me. I can’t wait to read more from this series!! Again amazing job on this book!!!
Review of advance copy
This is book 2 in the interconnected Minnesota Blue Herons standalone series. Grace is little sister of Adams best friend. What starts as friends turns into some insane chemistry and crazy tension. Once they cross the line that energy explodes and the spice is electric.
I love a plus size FMC who is sure if her self and Grace is all fire and sass. Adam has a dark past full of hurt, but he is all strength and heart.
Dancing with our hands tied was a sweet read that made me laugh, cry and swoon.
I love a plus size FMC who is sure if her self and Grace is all fire and sass. Adam has a dark past full of hurt, but he is all strength and heart.
Dancing with our hands tied was a sweet read that made me laugh, cry and swoon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ugh! This book was soooo good! The brothers best friend love, the panic attacks! It’s all so amazing! I loved the characters and felt like I was their friend. This book has some unhealed Trauma and I liked it because it’s realistic! I’m glad the way it ended! I want more! I couldn’t stop reading once I started. Finished in a day.
October 24, 2026
Review not finished :
I love how this book Highlights mental health. I feel like mental health isn’t talked openly enough as it should be because we all deal with in some form or another.
I love Alice writing. Her stories feel real and not forced. Easy ready that flows
🤞I’m hoping Calvin and Zoey get a story .
I love how this book Highlights mental health. I feel like mental health isn’t talked openly enough as it should be because we all deal with in some form or another.
I love Alice writing. Her stories feel real and not forced. Easy ready that flows
🤞I’m hoping Calvin and Zoey get a story .
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