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Defiant Kings #3
Iced
I never wanted to be a nanny.
That wasn’t part of my carefully crafted, five-year plan. The one I formulated after getting a second chance at life. Neither was losing my heart to the beautiful baby boy I’m taking care of. Even if I saw that coming the moment I laid eyes on him.
Falling in love with his father . . . now that, I didn’t see coming.
But I dare anyone to spend time getting to know the real Jace Kingston . . .
The man behind the hockey jersey, grumpy attitude, and panty-meltingly gorgeous face.
The one who sweetly sings his son to sleep . . . who holds him with such care.
The same man who knows exactly how to light every inch of my body on fire.
The one I can’t resist.
It was supposed to be one year of my life.
I’d pay off my student loans.
He’d get through his first season of pro hockey.
Then I’d help him find my replacement.
If only it was that easy.
That wasn’t part of my carefully crafted, five-year plan. The one I formulated after getting a second chance at life. Neither was losing my heart to the beautiful baby boy I’m taking care of. Even if I saw that coming the moment I laid eyes on him.
Falling in love with his father . . . now that, I didn’t see coming.
But I dare anyone to spend time getting to know the real Jace Kingston . . .
The man behind the hockey jersey, grumpy attitude, and panty-meltingly gorgeous face.
The one who sweetly sings his son to sleep . . . who holds him with such care.
The same man who knows exactly how to light every inch of my body on fire.
The one I can’t resist.
It was supposed to be one year of my life.
I’d pay off my student loans.
He’d get through his first season of pro hockey.
Then I’d help him find my replacement.
If only it was that easy.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2023
1396 people are currently reading
5691 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 594 reviews
May 9, 2023
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Amazon US * Amazon UK
I've become obsessed with the Kingston family and I love reading their stories. But sadly this one was one of my least favorites. Jace has always been a fun side character and I liked him even more in his own book but I wish we got to see more of him finding his independence.
The story felt very rushed and it took insta-love to the extremes in my opinion. There didn't seem to be a build up between Jace and Indy, no tension, and unfortunately that meant not a very evident connection sometimes. I liked them together for the most part but there just wasn't enough of them I think.
I also wasn't a crazy big fan of the rest of the family in this book. Which is sad since I've loved them in the previous books. But here we didn't see a lot of that family together-ness that I've gotten used to seeing and instead some of them were turned into annoying older siblings. And sure that's normal but here they were too overbearing and then there wasn't a big enough grovel from them or any scene where we really got to see that they knew they were in the wrong.
Overall, I still enjoyed this book and it possibly would have been a higher rating for me if I didn't already know these characters and knew they were capable of a much more enjoyable story.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I've become obsessed with the Kingston family and I love reading their stories. But sadly this one was one of my least favorites. Jace has always been a fun side character and I liked him even more in his own book but I wish we got to see more of him finding his independence.
The story felt very rushed and it took insta-love to the extremes in my opinion. There didn't seem to be a build up between Jace and Indy, no tension, and unfortunately that meant not a very evident connection sometimes. I liked them together for the most part but there just wasn't enough of them I think.
I also wasn't a crazy big fan of the rest of the family in this book. Which is sad since I've loved them in the previous books. But here we didn't see a lot of that family together-ness that I've gotten used to seeing and instead some of them were turned into annoying older siblings. And sure that's normal but here they were too overbearing and then there wasn't a big enough grovel from them or any scene where we really got to see that they knew they were in the wrong.
Overall, I still enjoyed this book and it possibly would have been a higher rating for me if I didn't already know these characters and knew they were capable of a much more enjoyable story.
May 7, 2023
☆ 5/5 & 2/5 spice
I am obsessed with this series, the family dynamics and all the characters that we have been introduced to. I enjoy how we get to see past characters making appearances in these books.
Jace has been sort of an enigma to me, but we know that he is the youngest Kingston brother. Jace does a 180 — going from being a spoiled playboy to a man who owns up to his mistakes and takes full responsibility when he finds out he is a father to the sweetest boy. Struggling to transition into his role as a father, he decides to hire a nanny to help out. Indy’s dream is to become a kindergarten teacher, but after endless anticipation of applying for a job she keeps getting rejected. Later on, Indy discovers a nanny position and applies for the job and becomes a nanny for Jace’s son, Cohen.
Been looking forward to Jace’s book. I sort of wished that their relationship went a bit slower, but the insta-love/attraction between the two worked very well in this book. I love the close knit family dynamics, especially how the Kingston family is always there for each other and willing to support one another whenever something happens.
Overall, a wonderful and enjoyable read. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Tropes:
❥ Sports romance
❥ Nanny x single dad
❥ Reformed playboy
❥ Forced proximity
❥ Forbidden romance
❥ Insta-love
❥ Guy falls first
❥ Grumpy x sunshine
I am obsessed with this series, the family dynamics and all the characters that we have been introduced to. I enjoy how we get to see past characters making appearances in these books.
Jace has been sort of an enigma to me, but we know that he is the youngest Kingston brother. Jace does a 180 — going from being a spoiled playboy to a man who owns up to his mistakes and takes full responsibility when he finds out he is a father to the sweetest boy. Struggling to transition into his role as a father, he decides to hire a nanny to help out. Indy’s dream is to become a kindergarten teacher, but after endless anticipation of applying for a job she keeps getting rejected. Later on, Indy discovers a nanny position and applies for the job and becomes a nanny for Jace’s son, Cohen.
Been looking forward to Jace’s book. I sort of wished that their relationship went a bit slower, but the insta-love/attraction between the two worked very well in this book. I love the close knit family dynamics, especially how the Kingston family is always there for each other and willing to support one another whenever something happens.
Overall, a wonderful and enjoyable read. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Tropes:
❥ Sports romance
❥ Nanny x single dad
❥ Reformed playboy
❥ Forced proximity
❥ Forbidden romance
❥ Insta-love
❥ Guy falls first
❥ Grumpy x sunshine
May 7, 2023
dnf 75%
look i tried to finish it so i could give a thorough review, but then i realized i was just torturing myself by reading absolute garbage
first off, a two month old baby should not be going out into the world for no reason besides going to the doctor or to a park, he doesn't have a strong enough immune system.
secondly, you are absolutely insane to think that you can "know a person " after knowing them for two fucking days
you are not in love, you're just attracted to each other, you're not soulmates, get a grip
also his family is unbearable, like he's a father and a grown man, stop telling him what to do, stop judging his choices and most importantly fuck his brother for manipulating his choice in the draft and fuck his sister for thinking she knows better than him just because she's older, he said he didn't want a pi investigating into his son's mom, but she had one do it anyway
the writing was bad, so many reoccurring phrases, repeating patterns. the book didn't flow.
look i tried to finish it so i could give a thorough review, but then i realized i was just torturing myself by reading absolute garbage
first off, a two month old baby should not be going out into the world for no reason besides going to the doctor or to a park, he doesn't have a strong enough immune system.
secondly, you are absolutely insane to think that you can "know a person " after knowing them for two fucking days
you are not in love, you're just attracted to each other, you're not soulmates, get a grip
also his family is unbearable, like he's a father and a grown man, stop telling him what to do, stop judging his choices and most importantly fuck his brother for manipulating his choice in the draft and fuck his sister for thinking she knows better than him just because she's older, he said he didn't want a pi investigating into his son's mom, but she had one do it anyway
the writing was bad, so many reoccurring phrases, repeating patterns. the book didn't flow.
May 14, 2023
4/5 ⭐️
🤍 Virgin heroine
🤍 Surprise Baby
🤍 Former Manwhore
🤍 Hockey romance
🤍 Nanny x Boss
🤍 Insta-love/lust
🚩no OW/OM Drama; no cheating/sharing
I really liked this one 🙌😍
Their chemistry and the relationship was so cute and well written 🫂🫶
The Baby was so sweet *swoon * 🤤😍🤍
It would have been a 5 ⭐️ book if he wasn't such a manwhore in the past 🙊🙈
🤍 Virgin heroine
🤍 Surprise Baby
🤍 Former Manwhore
🤍 Hockey romance
🤍 Nanny x Boss
🤍 Insta-love/lust
🚩no OW/OM Drama; no cheating/sharing
I really liked this one 🙌😍
Their chemistry and the relationship was so cute and well written 🫂🫶
The Baby was so sweet *swoon * 🤤😍🤍
It would have been a 5 ⭐️ book if he wasn't such a manwhore in the past 🙊🙈
May 5, 2023
Love the fast paced relationship between Indy and Jace!!
June 11, 2023
This was okay I guess, way too insta-lust or insta-love for me. Not that I have any problem with that, maybe I'm just not in the mood for this???
Anyway, Jace (22) and India/Indy (21) met 6 months ago when he almost ran her over. When he's sure she's fine he tried to get her name, cuz insta-lust kicked in but she didn't give it. And that was the end of their interaction. However, it seems this incident made them think about one another constantly.
Then 4 months after that meet up, Jace received a news that a child was born and the mother left but he was named the father. He took the baby and 2 months after his family tried to help him by finding a nanny.
Indy has been unlucky with all of her job applications as a kindergarten teacher, and her boss which happens to be Jace's sister mentioned that they needed a nanny and her educational background is perfect for the role. So she applied and went to the house and was shocked to see that the father was the guy he met 6 months ago. He hired her and she accepted the job and that's how it all started.
Like I said it was very insta, there's sexual tension that was very much obvious. But I would've wanted for them to get to know each other a little bit better before doing something more. The first time they slept was only 3 days after Indy started her job as Cohen's nanny. I mean seriously 3 days? Then 2 weeks in with their setup they're already falling in love. Everything came about so fast between them and I'm still wrapping up my head then events after events kept happening. I felt at loss at times, idk.
Overall, I like the writing style and the story flow. I've come to like MCs along the way. There are a lot of characters included here that can be a bit overwhelming, but I didn't find it hard to follow the story. I still had fun, though I still wished for a more depth in their relationship.
Anyway, Jace (22) and India/Indy (21) met 6 months ago when he almost ran her over. When he's sure she's fine he tried to get her name, cuz insta-lust kicked in but she didn't give it. And that was the end of their interaction. However, it seems this incident made them think about one another constantly.
Then 4 months after that meet up, Jace received a news that a child was born and the mother left but he was named the father. He took the baby and 2 months after his family tried to help him by finding a nanny.
Indy has been unlucky with all of her job applications as a kindergarten teacher, and her boss which happens to be Jace's sister mentioned that they needed a nanny and her educational background is perfect for the role. So she applied and went to the house and was shocked to see that the father was the guy he met 6 months ago. He hired her and she accepted the job and that's how it all started.
Like I said it was very insta, there's sexual tension that was very much obvious. But I would've wanted for them to get to know each other a little bit better before doing something more. The first time they slept was only 3 days after Indy started her job as Cohen's nanny. I mean seriously 3 days? Then 2 weeks in with their setup they're already falling in love. Everything came about so fast between them and I'm still wrapping up my head then events after events kept happening. I felt at loss at times, idk.
Overall, I like the writing style and the story flow. I've come to like MCs along the way. There are a lot of characters included here that can be a bit overwhelming, but I didn't find it hard to follow the story. I still had fun, though I still wished for a more depth in their relationship.
May 3, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: nanny
Angst: 😱😱.5
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Absolutely loved Jace’s book! Jace had finally gotten his life back on track when the consequence of his past misdeeds is literally left at a hospital. Now, starting his dream career is ten times harder with a new baby in tow and your siblings breathing down his back. Enter India. His son's extra gun shy nanny seems to be everything he wants, now only if he can convince her he's worth the risk.
Iced is a super sweet instalove with a dash of angst that will definitely leave you with a smile on your face. A quick and super fast paced read that is well written and has all the family drama you expect and love from those Kingstons. I enjoyed the super fast paced speed of their romance, sometimes things just move that fast and it definitely hit the spot from some of super angsty build-ups I've been reading lately. Loved the story and can't wait to get my hands on Beck!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: nanny
Angst: 😱😱.5
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Absolutely loved Jace’s book! Jace had finally gotten his life back on track when the consequence of his past misdeeds is literally left at a hospital. Now, starting his dream career is ten times harder with a new baby in tow and your siblings breathing down his back. Enter India. His son's extra gun shy nanny seems to be everything he wants, now only if he can convince her he's worth the risk.
Iced is a super sweet instalove with a dash of angst that will definitely leave you with a smile on your face. A quick and super fast paced read that is well written and has all the family drama you expect and love from those Kingstons. I enjoyed the super fast paced speed of their romance, sometimes things just move that fast and it definitely hit the spot from some of super angsty build-ups I've been reading lately. Loved the story and can't wait to get my hands on Beck!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
May 2, 2023
Instant love always makes me nervous but Bella delivered with Jace and India!
Getting the full story of what happened with Jace and the reason he started staying with Wren and Sawyer was so eye opening and unexpected...but as the saying goes someone has to reach rock bottom for they acknowledge something is wrong. And that seemed to be the moment for Jace.
India is hesitant about relationships...and about letting people in...but somehow the instant attraction with Jace puts her at ease and she lets down her walls.
Is anyone else thrilled they can call Jace "daddy" now?? Just me..... cool.
Getting the full story of what happened with Jace and the reason he started staying with Wren and Sawyer was so eye opening and unexpected...but as the saying goes someone has to reach rock bottom for they acknowledge something is wrong. And that seemed to be the moment for Jace.
India is hesitant about relationships...and about letting people in...but somehow the instant attraction with Jace puts her at ease and she lets down her walls.
Is anyone else thrilled they can call Jace "daddy" now?? Just me..... cool.
April 30, 2023
I absolutely love the Kingston family! And I've been looking forward to Jace's book, not gonna lie - I love him 🥰
Jace is the cheeky, care-free, all-for-a-good-time, wants-to-spread-his-wings kinda guy but he gets a wake up call and that's when we see the real man he is and Oh. My. Days... Swoon!!!
Indy is absolutely adorable! She may not be having the best time - she's studied for years to get her dream job of teaching kindergarten but it seems it's not going to happen, so she decides to accept a year-long contract as a live-in nanny.
Cue the undeniable attraction!
Thankfully this isn't your typical dance around each other for months and months and then keep fighting it bla bla books (absolutely nothing wrong with those books, I've read plenty of them!) But I liked that this is different. Jace knows what he wants and yet she's no wallflower!
A really good read, I adored the characters, they've got a good connection - I was definitely cheering for them. I love that we get our share of characters/family from previous books and I absolutely love that Bella knows how to keep us wanting more!
Loved it.
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 4/4.5
Jace is the cheeky, care-free, all-for-a-good-time, wants-to-spread-his-wings kinda guy but he gets a wake up call and that's when we see the real man he is and Oh. My. Days... Swoon!!!
Indy is absolutely adorable! She may not be having the best time - she's studied for years to get her dream job of teaching kindergarten but it seems it's not going to happen, so she decides to accept a year-long contract as a live-in nanny.
Cue the undeniable attraction!
Thankfully this isn't your typical dance around each other for months and months and then keep fighting it bla bla books (absolutely nothing wrong with those books, I've read plenty of them!) But I liked that this is different. Jace knows what he wants and yet she's no wallflower!
A really good read, I adored the characters, they've got a good connection - I was definitely cheering for them. I love that we get our share of characters/family from previous books and I absolutely love that Bella knows how to keep us wanting more!
Loved it.
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 4/4.5
May 1, 2023
Jace is swoon worthy!!! I literally couldn't put this story down!! These men just keep getting better and better!! And Indy I just loved her! She was so great with everything that was thrown at her!!! I was in a huge reading slump and this certainly pulled me out of it!!! 5 stars isn't enough ! These Kingston men deserve the most! I can't wait for becks story!!!
May 14, 2023
The book was alright. The pacing was a bit too fast, and I felt the characters were lacking a depth in the end. 3.5/5 ⭐
April 30, 2023
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝒃𝒂𝒃𝒚 (𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝑭𝑴𝑪), 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒅, 𝒏𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒚, 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒚, 𝒉𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒚, 𝒗𝒊𝒓𝒈𝒊𝒏 𝑭𝑴𝑪, 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒚
We finally get Jace’s story! The second youngest of the Kingston family at 22 years old and the troublemaker of the bunch. Jace gets the surprise of his life when a woman lists him as the father of her baby and surrenders the baby to him. India (or Indy) becomes his live in nanny. She is struggling to find a job in her field as a kindergarten teacher and cannot pass this opportunity up.
Their romance moves fast - I’d say this was more of a medium to fast burn. They met once a few months before and the chemistry was there. Jace struggles with doing the right thing by NOT sleeping with his nanny but… they can’t resist each other.
I would’ve liked to see a little more build up or resistance to their romance. There wasn’t a lot of push/pull. They instantly clicked and Jace knew she was it for him.
Overall this is a good addition to the series and I really enjoy reading about the entire Kingston family!
Steam: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes: 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝒃𝒂𝒃𝒚 (𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝑭𝑴𝑪), 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒅, 𝒏𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒚, 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒚, 𝒉𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒚, 𝒗𝒊𝒓𝒈𝒊𝒏 𝑭𝑴𝑪, 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒐𝒚
We finally get Jace’s story! The second youngest of the Kingston family at 22 years old and the troublemaker of the bunch. Jace gets the surprise of his life when a woman lists him as the father of her baby and surrenders the baby to him. India (or Indy) becomes his live in nanny. She is struggling to find a job in her field as a kindergarten teacher and cannot pass this opportunity up.
Their romance moves fast - I’d say this was more of a medium to fast burn. They met once a few months before and the chemistry was there. Jace struggles with doing the right thing by NOT sleeping with his nanny but… they can’t resist each other.
I would’ve liked to see a little more build up or resistance to their romance. There wasn’t a lot of push/pull. They instantly clicked and Jace knew she was it for him.
Overall this is a good addition to the series and I really enjoy reading about the entire Kingston family!
May 31, 2023
too fast paced, got boring real quick, just meh
August 11, 2024
This was a good read not my fave , it was different . Still cute .
Read
May 4, 2023So basically we have a man whore H that sleeps around and gets someone pregnant. Then, he hires the h as the nanny for said baby. I guess it’s not a terrible plot but just not enough to hold my attention.
DNF
DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2023
ARC Review
“Tell me what you need, Indy. Give me all your words, and I’ll give you everything.”
This was definitely more of a fast burn and while that’s not always my favorite, it was done SO WELL!
This book hits on several different tropes.
🏒 Single Dad
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Grumpy/Sunshine
And I loved it!
Jace was such a sweet guy. He gets the surprise of his life on the night he’s drafted to the NHL when he’s told he has a son. And the connection he immediately has with Cohen was everything. He had already been in the process of trying to better his life and this was just one more reason to keep going down a better path.
Needing help raising his new baby, Jace hires Indy as the live in nanny. They had actually met briefly once before and had that kind of instant connection. So that comes back again when they meet the second time.
As I said, this was definitely more of a fast burn in the sense that they have that passionate connection from the start. And though they try to fight it, Indy and Jace can’t help but give in to their attraction.
I loved watching as Jace began to let Indy in and once she was he wasn’t letting her go anywhere. If you’re looking for a sweet read with a little bit of hockey sprinkled in, this is the book for you! I can’t wait to read future books with Jace’s siblings and see where life takes Indy and Jace. 🥰
“Tell me what you need, Indy. Give me all your words, and I’ll give you everything.”
This was definitely more of a fast burn and while that’s not always my favorite, it was done SO WELL!
This book hits on several different tropes.
🏒 Single Dad
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Grumpy/Sunshine
And I loved it!
Jace was such a sweet guy. He gets the surprise of his life on the night he’s drafted to the NHL when he’s told he has a son. And the connection he immediately has with Cohen was everything. He had already been in the process of trying to better his life and this was just one more reason to keep going down a better path.
Needing help raising his new baby, Jace hires Indy as the live in nanny. They had actually met briefly once before and had that kind of instant connection. So that comes back again when they meet the second time.
As I said, this was definitely more of a fast burn in the sense that they have that passionate connection from the start. And though they try to fight it, Indy and Jace can’t help but give in to their attraction.
I loved watching as Jace began to let Indy in and once she was he wasn’t letting her go anywhere. If you’re looking for a sweet read with a little bit of hockey sprinkled in, this is the book for you! I can’t wait to read future books with Jace’s siblings and see where life takes Indy and Jace. 🥰
May 18, 2023
If I could give it 0 stars I would, I absolutely HATED the storyline. The romance was extremely rushed, like how do you see someone ONE time like 6 months ago and then accidentally hire her and be “destined” to be together 3 days after she started????? WHAT?? The dialogue itself was cringy and made no sense directionally. It felt like this book was more of a filler book, instead of one with substance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2023
I am honored to have been given the ARC for Bella Matthew’s book “Iced.” This is the first book I’ve read by Bella, & I really liked it! It was a quick & cute read!
"Iced" includes the following tropes: hockey romance, surprise baby (not FMC), single dad, nanny, forced proximity, he fell first, virgin FMC, & reformed playboy. This book also gives off strong insta-love vibes.
The MCs are Jace & India, & Cohen is Jace’s infant son. Jace comes from a large family of nine siblings who are all close & play a large role in this book. India has one brother & lives with her grandpa until moving in to be Cohen’s nanny.
Jace is a hockey player for the Revolution - a NHL hockey team owned by his brother Max. Jace is a reformed playboy now that he has an infant son to take care of, & is currently living with his sister Wren & her husband. Before Jace starts his first pro hockey season, he & Wren work to find a live-in nanny to help take care of Cohen when he’s at practice & away games. Jace is hesitant to trust a stranger with his baby, & India is the last person interviewed for the position. India has the qualifications to be a wonderful nanny, so he
hires her despite feeling an attraction to her - she is off limits & will now be working for him. Cohen isn’t the only one who steals Jace’s heart in a short amount of time.
India is living with her grandpa & has just finished up her dual degrees in childhood education & child development, & has begun applying for kindergarten teaching positions. After no call-backs, she calls to find out about a nanny position her friend tells her about. Shortly after, she interviews with Wren, Jace’s sister, & gets to the part where she meets Jace & Cohen. Not only is she taken aback by Cohen & how precious he is, but she is also taken aback by how attractive Jace is. The salary is amazing & she has no other job leads, plus she will no longer need to live with her grandpa, so she takes the job. Although she falls head over heels in love with Cohen quickly, Cohen isn’t the only person she ends up falling hard & fast for.
The intimacy between Jace & India comes on fairly quickly. One moment they are working through baby stuff & hockey schedules, & the next, both are going at it. Even Jace’s siblings are like “What? She just moved in!” Haha. This is where the insta-love vibes kick in, then the author just keeps going without batting an eye lol. I will say though, that Jace & India’s chemistry is very strong & there are a fairly good number of spicy scenes!!!
Like I said, I really liked this book, & it was a quick & cute read, however, it went way too fast for my liking, especially them falling for each other - it felt rushed. I’m giving it a 4-star rating based on this.
"Iced" includes the following tropes: hockey romance, surprise baby (not FMC), single dad, nanny, forced proximity, he fell first, virgin FMC, & reformed playboy. This book also gives off strong insta-love vibes.
The MCs are Jace & India, & Cohen is Jace’s infant son. Jace comes from a large family of nine siblings who are all close & play a large role in this book. India has one brother & lives with her grandpa until moving in to be Cohen’s nanny.
Jace is a hockey player for the Revolution - a NHL hockey team owned by his brother Max. Jace is a reformed playboy now that he has an infant son to take care of, & is currently living with his sister Wren & her husband. Before Jace starts his first pro hockey season, he & Wren work to find a live-in nanny to help take care of Cohen when he’s at practice & away games. Jace is hesitant to trust a stranger with his baby, & India is the last person interviewed for the position. India has the qualifications to be a wonderful nanny, so he
hires her despite feeling an attraction to her - she is off limits & will now be working for him. Cohen isn’t the only one who steals Jace’s heart in a short amount of time.
India is living with her grandpa & has just finished up her dual degrees in childhood education & child development, & has begun applying for kindergarten teaching positions. After no call-backs, she calls to find out about a nanny position her friend tells her about. Shortly after, she interviews with Wren, Jace’s sister, & gets to the part where she meets Jace & Cohen. Not only is she taken aback by Cohen & how precious he is, but she is also taken aback by how attractive Jace is. The salary is amazing & she has no other job leads, plus she will no longer need to live with her grandpa, so she takes the job. Although she falls head over heels in love with Cohen quickly, Cohen isn’t the only person she ends up falling hard & fast for.
The intimacy between Jace & India comes on fairly quickly. One moment they are working through baby stuff & hockey schedules, & the next, both are going at it. Even Jace’s siblings are like “What? She just moved in!” Haha. This is where the insta-love vibes kick in, then the author just keeps going without batting an eye lol. I will say though, that Jace & India’s chemistry is very strong & there are a fairly good number of spicy scenes!!!
Like I said, I really liked this book, & it was a quick & cute read, however, it went way too fast for my liking, especially them falling for each other - it felt rushed. I’m giving it a 4-star rating based on this.
May 1, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy Level: 🌶🌶
Tropes: Single Dad/Nanny, Hockey Romance, Virgin FMC, Forced Proximity, Medium Burn, Surprise Baby (not FMC)
I love the Kingston family. The love they have for one another. The hilarious banter whenever they are group texting or around each other. The Kingston men who are just sexy and swoony. The Kingston women who take no bull shit and are fiercely strong women. Love them and I love with each book we get to see one Kingston and get to know them on a more personal level.
Iced is based on Jace Kingston, the second to youngest Kingston. He hates being treated like a baby despite being a 22 year old man. His oldest siblings are always trying to take control of his life and it drives him mad. You sympathize with him and feel his frustration over the matter. His life takes a crazy turn when he finds out he has a baby that was left at the hospital where one of his sister-in-laws works. At that moment, he takes on the responsibility of being a single dad and doesn't hesitate to do it on his own, with his whole family there to help him. At least til he needs a nanny to help when he starts his professional hockey career.
Indy is a young woman who is determined to achieve her dream as a kindergarten teacher. With a medical condition that racks up medical bills and not to mention student loans she will have to pay, she is desperate to find her teaching career. After constant rejection, she begins to stress about her finances. When a friend brings up the nanny position, she contemplates it before settling that the pay and medical coverage would help her and the teaching dreams are placed on hold. Indy gets the nanny gig but has to tell herself she cannot fall for the hot boss. But who says it's ever that simple.
You will want to read Iced to see how these two make things work with overbearing family members, a baby and trying to figure out how they truly feel about each other.
This story is Dual POV of MMC and FMC and ends in a HEA.
Spicy Level: 🌶🌶
Tropes: Single Dad/Nanny, Hockey Romance, Virgin FMC, Forced Proximity, Medium Burn, Surprise Baby (not FMC)
I love the Kingston family. The love they have for one another. The hilarious banter whenever they are group texting or around each other. The Kingston men who are just sexy and swoony. The Kingston women who take no bull shit and are fiercely strong women. Love them and I love with each book we get to see one Kingston and get to know them on a more personal level.
Iced is based on Jace Kingston, the second to youngest Kingston. He hates being treated like a baby despite being a 22 year old man. His oldest siblings are always trying to take control of his life and it drives him mad. You sympathize with him and feel his frustration over the matter. His life takes a crazy turn when he finds out he has a baby that was left at the hospital where one of his sister-in-laws works. At that moment, he takes on the responsibility of being a single dad and doesn't hesitate to do it on his own, with his whole family there to help him. At least til he needs a nanny to help when he starts his professional hockey career.
Indy is a young woman who is determined to achieve her dream as a kindergarten teacher. With a medical condition that racks up medical bills and not to mention student loans she will have to pay, she is desperate to find her teaching career. After constant rejection, she begins to stress about her finances. When a friend brings up the nanny position, she contemplates it before settling that the pay and medical coverage would help her and the teaching dreams are placed on hold. Indy gets the nanny gig but has to tell herself she cannot fall for the hot boss. But who says it's ever that simple.
You will want to read Iced to see how these two make things work with overbearing family members, a baby and trying to figure out how they truly feel about each other.
This story is Dual POV of MMC and FMC and ends in a HEA.
May 2, 2023
If you have ever read any of Bella Matthews's previous books, you know that Jace is the younger brother of the majority of the Kingston siblings. He was younger when their father passed away, so they have been taking care of him ever since.
Well now Jace is 22 years old; has finished up college and was just drafted in the first round of the NHL draft. To the team his brother owns, which is something that he did not want. He has wanted to make his mark in the world and not feel as though he has been handed everything. On the night of the draft, he gets a call from his brother Sawyer whose wife Wren is a nurse. Wren delivered a baby the night before and the mom ran off. But not before listing Jace as the father on the birth certificate.
Now Jace has to step up to the plate for his son Cohen. After the initial shock wore off, he jumps right in and takes over as Daddy Jace to baby Cohen. But he is in desperate need of a nanny and no one seems to be good enough. Until Indy walks in and changes everything for Jace. Not just being his baby's nanny, but he is instantly taken by her and decides in that moment that he is going to make her his.
Let me first off start by saying that this book is FAST. The complete opposite of a slow burn - it is completely insta-love for Jace. And once Indy allows herself to go there, they are immediately taken with each other. Jace's transformation from the Chapter 1 to when he finds out about Cohen is a complete 180. He goes from a hot mess of a playboy, who is constantly making the wrong choices, to a great dad. Indy was also a great partner for Jace and definitely kept him grounded. The two of them together in theory should still be living out their young 20's, but they instantly became parents to Cohen in the best way.
Well now Jace is 22 years old; has finished up college and was just drafted in the first round of the NHL draft. To the team his brother owns, which is something that he did not want. He has wanted to make his mark in the world and not feel as though he has been handed everything. On the night of the draft, he gets a call from his brother Sawyer whose wife Wren is a nurse. Wren delivered a baby the night before and the mom ran off. But not before listing Jace as the father on the birth certificate.
Now Jace has to step up to the plate for his son Cohen. After the initial shock wore off, he jumps right in and takes over as Daddy Jace to baby Cohen. But he is in desperate need of a nanny and no one seems to be good enough. Until Indy walks in and changes everything for Jace. Not just being his baby's nanny, but he is instantly taken by her and decides in that moment that he is going to make her his.
Let me first off start by saying that this book is FAST. The complete opposite of a slow burn - it is completely insta-love for Jace. And once Indy allows herself to go there, they are immediately taken with each other. Jace's transformation from the Chapter 1 to when he finds out about Cohen is a complete 180. He goes from a hot mess of a playboy, who is constantly making the wrong choices, to a great dad. Indy was also a great partner for Jace and definitely kept him grounded. The two of them together in theory should still be living out their young 20's, but they instantly became parents to Cohen in the best way.
May 4, 2023
This was my first book by Bella Matthews and it did not disappoint. Iced is the 3rd book in her Defiant Kings series. They are all interconnected standalones. Obviously I had to read this one because it has hockey in it. :-)
This story follows Jace and Indy Now when Jace and Indy run into each other early on in this story she doesn’t show him the time of day. Which knocks the great Jace Kingston for a loop. His life ends up throwing him a curveball during the NHL draft that changes his life.
Indy is a recent graduate and trying to get a teaching job for Kindergarten, but is unlucky. One her friends tell her that a mutual friend’s brother is looking for a nanny. She is desperate and the pay is too good to refuse, so she ends up applying and getting the job.
I think I am slowly starting to become an insta-love fan. I loved Jace and Indy’s story. I liked how there was not the tip-toeing around about their feelings. Jace and Indy have that passionate connection from the start. And though they try to fight it, Indy and Jace can’t help but give in to their attraction.
Overall: 4.5
Spice: 3
Tropes:
Single Dad x Nanny
Insta-Love
Forced Proximity
Virgin FMC
Reformed Playboy
Hockey Romance
Thank you to Literally Yours PR for an eARC.
This story follows Jace and Indy Now when Jace and Indy run into each other early on in this story she doesn’t show him the time of day. Which knocks the great Jace Kingston for a loop. His life ends up throwing him a curveball during the NHL draft that changes his life.
Indy is a recent graduate and trying to get a teaching job for Kindergarten, but is unlucky. One her friends tell her that a mutual friend’s brother is looking for a nanny. She is desperate and the pay is too good to refuse, so she ends up applying and getting the job.
I think I am slowly starting to become an insta-love fan. I loved Jace and Indy’s story. I liked how there was not the tip-toeing around about their feelings. Jace and Indy have that passionate connection from the start. And though they try to fight it, Indy and Jace can’t help but give in to their attraction.
Overall: 4.5
Spice: 3
Tropes:
Single Dad x Nanny
Insta-Love
Forced Proximity
Virgin FMC
Reformed Playboy
Hockey Romance
Thank you to Literally Yours PR for an eARC.
May 4, 2023
After Shaken, I felt like there were little hints and surprises in store for Jace - oh boy were there ever!
The story starts with Jace and his draft. He gets drafted to his family’s team, which doesn’t make him very happy. He was looking to spread his wings away from them - and still feels very controlled by his brothers Max. An unexpected turn of events though, when Jace gets a call to come home ASAP as a baby was left at the hospital listing him as the father.
Daddy Jace. We love it. But starting a new big job and being busy, he needs a nanny. His family interview a variety of possibilities ultimately ending on India. What a surprise though as Jace and India have met before… and there’s a lot of chemistry from that one quick interaction.
Jace and Indi’s story quickly progresses from there. The nanny romance trope in full swing, with learning more tidbits about Jace’s ticks and experiences over the past year. This was really a core part of the story that we needed answers to after Shaken.
There’s just something about Bella’s writing style that pulls you in. Every time I open one of her books it feels like coming home. It is so enjoyable to read and be apart of.
The story starts with Jace and his draft. He gets drafted to his family’s team, which doesn’t make him very happy. He was looking to spread his wings away from them - and still feels very controlled by his brothers Max. An unexpected turn of events though, when Jace gets a call to come home ASAP as a baby was left at the hospital listing him as the father.
Daddy Jace. We love it. But starting a new big job and being busy, he needs a nanny. His family interview a variety of possibilities ultimately ending on India. What a surprise though as Jace and India have met before… and there’s a lot of chemistry from that one quick interaction.
Jace and Indi’s story quickly progresses from there. The nanny romance trope in full swing, with learning more tidbits about Jace’s ticks and experiences over the past year. This was really a core part of the story that we needed answers to after Shaken.
There’s just something about Bella’s writing style that pulls you in. Every time I open one of her books it feels like coming home. It is so enjoyable to read and be apart of.
April 29, 2023
I say this after every one of Bellas books I read, but Jace kingston is my new favourite book boyfriend!! That man is so god damn swoony, and I, for one, am here for that!!
“You’re mine, pretty girl. And I’m the only man who’ll ever touch your skin.”
This book was so good. I mean, who doesn't love a hockey playing single dad romance? And Jace and Indy are so good together.
Who knew that Jace was such a dirty talker!! The spice in the book was HOT 🔥 I mean, there was no way Jace wasn't going to be spicy!!
“I need you to come, Indy. I want to feel that pussy pulse around me. I want you to feel me every time you move tomorrow. I want you to never forget who owns those orgasms…. Give it to me.”
I am so obsessed with the Kingstons, and that family chat is so funny, and I love that we get snippets of it in every book!!
I read this book in one sitting, and I had a massive goofy grin on my face for the majority of the book. Im so happy Jace got his HEA 💜
“I love you, Jace Kingston. I’m not sure when it happened, but I’m sure this is real. I love you so much, it hurts to breathe when you’re not around.”
“You’re mine, pretty girl. And I’m the only man who’ll ever touch your skin.”
This book was so good. I mean, who doesn't love a hockey playing single dad romance? And Jace and Indy are so good together.
Who knew that Jace was such a dirty talker!! The spice in the book was HOT 🔥 I mean, there was no way Jace wasn't going to be spicy!!
“I need you to come, Indy. I want to feel that pussy pulse around me. I want you to feel me every time you move tomorrow. I want you to never forget who owns those orgasms…. Give it to me.”
I am so obsessed with the Kingstons, and that family chat is so funny, and I love that we get snippets of it in every book!!
I read this book in one sitting, and I had a massive goofy grin on my face for the majority of the book. Im so happy Jace got his HEA 💜
“I love you, Jace Kingston. I’m not sure when it happened, but I’m sure this is real. I love you so much, it hurts to breathe when you’re not around.”
May 1, 2023
If you could see me right now, I would look like 😍🥰. Hearts in my eyes and all the love for Jace and Indy!
I couldn’t put this book down. These two had my heart right from the start.
I loved their little meet cute in the beginning as well. Then Jace gave me a turn I didn’t see coming. I almost got mad and had to step away because of his behavior. But then when his life took the turn, I felt for him. He made me fall in love with him. I have a soft spot for the single dad tropes.
India Monroe, this lady right here, I kinda saw a little of myself in her. This sweet lady just makes you feel for her. We all know what it feels like to chase your dreams and how hard we fight for them when it looks like they might not come true. But she also gave me a surprise with her fierce determination!
But mostly when Jace and Indy are together is when you will swoon and feel the love coming from the pages as you read! I laughed and almost cried a few times, those are my favorite kinds of love stories!!
.
.
.
.
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
10/10 recommendation‼️
I couldn’t put this book down. These two had my heart right from the start.
I loved their little meet cute in the beginning as well. Then Jace gave me a turn I didn’t see coming. I almost got mad and had to step away because of his behavior. But then when his life took the turn, I felt for him. He made me fall in love with him. I have a soft spot for the single dad tropes.
India Monroe, this lady right here, I kinda saw a little of myself in her. This sweet lady just makes you feel for her. We all know what it feels like to chase your dreams and how hard we fight for them when it looks like they might not come true. But she also gave me a surprise with her fierce determination!
But mostly when Jace and Indy are together is when you will swoon and feel the love coming from the pages as you read! I laughed and almost cried a few times, those are my favorite kinds of love stories!!
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.
.
.
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
10/10 recommendation‼️
November 2, 2023
I have enjoyed what I have read of the Kingston's so far and was excited to read about Jace, he was alway the comedic relief in past books. Jace had to move from playboy, to father at lightning speed, but I would have liked to see more of push for Jace to have his independence from his family and growing into a parent.
One thing I thought really came through in this book was how much the Kingston family is there for each other. I loved the support they offer to each other when struggling and how they are truly there for the people that are Kingston's by blood, or by found family.
I did find that this book felt a little rushed over the others I have read, with a bit of insta-love going on. I wanted to savour the relationship more than I could with how fast it went. I did enjoy it none-the-less. Overall, this was a good read and I look forward to continuing in the series.
Read if you like: single dad/nanny, hockey romance, forced proximity, virgin heroine
One thing I thought really came through in this book was how much the Kingston family is there for each other. I loved the support they offer to each other when struggling and how they are truly there for the people that are Kingston's by blood, or by found family.
I did find that this book felt a little rushed over the others I have read, with a bit of insta-love going on. I wanted to savour the relationship more than I could with how fast it went. I did enjoy it none-the-less. Overall, this was a good read and I look forward to continuing in the series.
Read if you like: single dad/nanny, hockey romance, forced proximity, virgin heroine
May 3, 2023
Jace is a man who knows what he wants and goes after it. At first, we see him in his downward spiral, embracing his life as a spoiled rich brat. But when he gets a wakeup call in the form of a sweet baby boy, I respect the heck outta his turnabout. That dude don't play when it comes to his son, and it's endearing and sexy. India is a mystery in the beginning. She's got her head on straight, with her goals at the front of her mind. She's not looking for Mr. Right, and that is refreshing about her. What girl could resist the hawt playboy hockey player turned protective single dad, though, right? Nobody, that's who. lol So of course, they end up crashing together, and their love at first sight journey ensues. It was awesome to see her not only fall in love with Jace, but with baby Cohen as well. She never stood a chance against fate, and I wouldn't want her to. This couple will win you over, and you'll be Team Jace in no time. ;)
P.S. I am so ready to see Becket find his HEA. And it better not be with Kendall. LOL Harper was lookin' mighty good as an option. *hint hint*
P.S. I am so ready to see Becket find his HEA. And it better not be with Kendall. LOL Harper was lookin' mighty good as an option. *hint hint*
May 1, 2023
Here we are back visiting the Kingston's. Jace and India's story.
It was absolutely sweet. With some sexy hot moments thrown in, of course!
Jace Kingston had to stop his reckless behaviour, and then a little bundle of surprise landed on him with a slap of memory lapse to boot. From there on, his life changed.
India has been looking for her dream job and sadly has yet to find it. Instead, getting the job as the nanny working for Jace.
These two had already met once before, and the attraction was instant.
I loved this book. Jace was so sweet but could really turn the heat up between the sheets now, throw in a cute little baby to the mix. 🔥🥰
Indy was one of my favourite female characters from the series. She had not one bad bone in her body and didn't mess around. Plus, she was a perfect nanny.
Of course, there was the usual Kingston Chaos and banter. As always. Entertaining!
Fantastic read. Until the next one...
ARC Review 📚
It was absolutely sweet. With some sexy hot moments thrown in, of course!
Jace Kingston had to stop his reckless behaviour, and then a little bundle of surprise landed on him with a slap of memory lapse to boot. From there on, his life changed.
India has been looking for her dream job and sadly has yet to find it. Instead, getting the job as the nanny working for Jace.
These two had already met once before, and the attraction was instant.
I loved this book. Jace was so sweet but could really turn the heat up between the sheets now, throw in a cute little baby to the mix. 🔥🥰
Indy was one of my favourite female characters from the series. She had not one bad bone in her body and didn't mess around. Plus, she was a perfect nanny.
Of course, there was the usual Kingston Chaos and banter. As always. Entertaining!
Fantastic read. Until the next one...
ARC Review 📚
May 10, 2023
I was provided an ARC of this book by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bella Matthews does not miss with the Defiant Kings series. Every time I think it’s not possible for me to love another Kingston any more than the last, I’m proven so very wrong— and Jace was no exception.
Even if that weren’t the case, the author graces us with ample tidbits and teasers throughout that feature the pairs we grew to so love over the course of the first two books, giving you that sweet dose of nostalgia without overshadowing the main storyline.
This is definitely one to keep your tissues handy for, as usual, when the tears inevitably come; and be ready to tumble face first and skates up for another Kingston sibling!
I say it every time, but I’ll say it again. Will be (always) eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series! Can’t help but to keep coming back for more!
Bella Matthews does not miss with the Defiant Kings series. Every time I think it’s not possible for me to love another Kingston any more than the last, I’m proven so very wrong— and Jace was no exception.
Even if that weren’t the case, the author graces us with ample tidbits and teasers throughout that feature the pairs we grew to so love over the course of the first two books, giving you that sweet dose of nostalgia without overshadowing the main storyline.
This is definitely one to keep your tissues handy for, as usual, when the tears inevitably come; and be ready to tumble face first and skates up for another Kingston sibling!
I say it every time, but I’ll say it again. Will be (always) eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series! Can’t help but to keep coming back for more!
May 17, 2023
This is book 3 in the Defiant Kings Series this is a real insta love, single dad sports romance and is part of the Defiant Kings series.
Jace is about to start a new season and his life has changed so much, he knows he has to take care of his responsibilities and This is where needing a nanny comes in. Being a new father is a new transition for Jace and he needs help.
India becomes a nanny for Jace's son after being turned down for a teaching jobs before she jumps at this chance.
These two have a connection straight away and I was really rooting for them both and everything happens very fast.
I enjoyed reading this book and I loved the family and how this author has written a family that is so real, the guys are fabulous.
This is a very fast romance and the only thing I would have loved abit more build up slower. But this was another great addition to This family.
Jace is about to start a new season and his life has changed so much, he knows he has to take care of his responsibilities and This is where needing a nanny comes in. Being a new father is a new transition for Jace and he needs help.
India becomes a nanny for Jace's son after being turned down for a teaching jobs before she jumps at this chance.
These two have a connection straight away and I was really rooting for them both and everything happens very fast.
I enjoyed reading this book and I loved the family and how this author has written a family that is so real, the guys are fabulous.
This is a very fast romance and the only thing I would have loved abit more build up slower. But this was another great addition to This family.
May 1, 2023
I knew I wouldn't be able to stop once I started this book... I mean how could I when it has some of the best tropes: Hockey Romance, Nanny, Forbidden Heroine, Grumpy/Sunshine,
Surprise Baby, Forced Proximity, Redemption, & Single Dad
Bella keeps me wrapped in her stories until the very end.. I could not put this book down, but I knew that when I started! I am so in love with Jace and his character is just as perfect as I knew he would be.
Jace and Indy have that instant connection that is felt through the pages. Their chemistry is absolute fire! I adored their story and the way that it builds. This book had me feeling ALL the feels from the very beginning.
I rooted for Jace from the get go and hoped he would find his way.. I LOVED seeing him grow into the man I always knew he would be.
Surprise Baby, Forced Proximity, Redemption, & Single Dad
Bella keeps me wrapped in her stories until the very end.. I could not put this book down, but I knew that when I started! I am so in love with Jace and his character is just as perfect as I knew he would be.
Jace and Indy have that instant connection that is felt through the pages. Their chemistry is absolute fire! I adored their story and the way that it builds. This book had me feeling ALL the feels from the very beginning.
I rooted for Jace from the get go and hoped he would find his way.. I LOVED seeing him grow into the man I always knew he would be.
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