Iced Out

Leighton U #1

by C.E. Ricci

All's fair in hate and hockey.


My path to success never included an enemy as a teammate, especially one as infuriating as Quinton de Haas.

Clawing under my skin is his favorite pastime, only feeding the animosity between us as the years pass.

We’re as completely opposite as two people can be; the golden boy and the black sheep.

Constantly at odds or at each other’s throats.

The only thing we can agree on is hockey is our true love, and we’ll do whatever it takes to come out on top.

I never imagined that drive would lead me to do the falling into bed with my not-so-straight rival.

But athletes are a superstitious bunch, and when our hook-ups lead to victories, we tell ourselves we can’t stop.

Besides, it’s all for the sake of the team, right?


*Iced Out is the first in a five book standalone college sports romance series featuring two misunderstood rival teammates, pages of snarky banter, and more secret spicy times than any book should be filled with. Not suitable for anyone under 18 years of age.*

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Sports Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Sports, Hockey, LGBT

394 pages, Paperback

First published December 23, 2022

About the author

CE Ricci is a USA Today and international best-selling author who enjoys plenty of things in her free time, but writing about herself in the third person isn’t one of them. She believes home isn’t a place, but a feeling, and it’s one she gets when she’s chilling lakeside or on hiking trails with her dogs, camera in hand. She’s addicted to all things photography, plants, peaks, puppies, and paperbacks, though not necessarily in that order. Music is her love language, and traveling the country (and world) is the way she chooses to find most of her inspiration for whatever epic love story she will tell next!

CE Ricci is represented by Two Daisy Media.
For all subsidiary rights, please contact Savannah Greenwell: info@twodaisy.com

Join CE Ricci's reader group here!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/wreck...

Reviews

[Marianna Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

So hot I couldnt stop gigglinggggg!! Mm hockey romance is a drug I swear. This one did fall a little in the end, but I still was heavily entertained and like was crack in it so I couldn’t put it down. Was it anything mind blowing? No. Do I care? Also no. A good spicy time and so addicting! I’ll definitely be continuing this series!

[moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus] · Rating 3 out of 5]

don't you love it when the mcs have cute moments that you'd probably go crazy over if you were invested in their romance, but you're not bc of the rushed pacing and lack of (emotional) development?


this had potential but, unfortunately, the impact wasn't there for me. when things started happening between them, it was too early imo and i was just like BUT HOW? WHEN? WHY?? the second half was a lil better, but not enough for me to give this higher than three stars.

i probably shouldn't have hopes for the future books in the series, but some characters caught my attention and i'm curious to see how Holden's story will go. 👀

[Warda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me stupid happy. I can’t remember the last time I fuckin’ squealed over a book. Not in my head, but out loud!

These two actually have my heart. 🥹

If you liked ‘Him’ by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy, you have to read this. Not that they’re the same in any way. But the giddiness and the happiness I got reading that book, I personally experienced with this book.

The sex was incredible, my god. And then the emotional development and intimacy we got with that? It doesn’t get better than those things combined. After all the animosity they had for each other, it was just beautiful to read about their vulnerable moments.

MM goodness, I don’t know what else to tell ya. 🥰

[Marci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this so much that I was mad I had to go to sleep and stop reading it!!!! Quinton and Oakley have my whole heart and I have no complaints. The way they always craved touching each other even if it was just a small brush of shoulders.🥺 THE SOCKS.😭 THE FERRIS WHEEL!!!🎡 The first 10% has a very strong enemies thing going and they also both have plenty of reasons to legitimately not like each other that I was curious to see how this would all unfold but the enemies part flew out the window pretty quickly and I didn’t even care *this time around* because what we got was perfection.🤌🏻 I wish the whole series was out right now because I would be racing to read them all!🥰 Once again I’m obsessed with C.E. Ricci’s writing, it flows so naturally and there’s just a certain magic to it!!! There’s quite a lot of sex scenes here so if you don’t feel like something steamy I would wait on reading this one. But if you do…I don’t think you’ll be disappointed lmao.🥵💥🥵💥 Golden boy x bad boy hits so hard when done right🤩 I would also say this is a grumpy x grumpy romance but said grumps turn into sunshines around each other.💜

[Iqra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me grinning like a fool the entire day. I couldn’t stop reading it, my goodness. After reading some heavy books recently, QuinnOak diaries was the perfect remedy. It gave everything I was looking for 😭🤌

The wholesome adorable little things they would do for each other ugh ✋ The jabs they would pass to rile the other up 😋

Reading their story progress from ‘I hate your guts’ and gauding each other to buying Christmas gifts and having those sweet tender moments was abs delicious. I was greedily lapping it all up. They’re so precious it makes my heart clench just thinking about them 😭💗

When I say small moments THIS is what I mean. The puck? The rink? The SOCKS?!? BRB Imma just- 🤸🏻‍♀️🕳️

They had the kind of relationship that feels like a warm hug with your face being stuck like 🥹 the whole time.

If you want something lighthearted, sweet and a potential comfort read with lots (LOTS) of spice, this is ur book.

𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲:
Oakley’s thought processes reminded me sm of Moffy from the like us series and I loved that sfm

𝗙𝗮𝘃 𝗤𝘂𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀:

“Fight me, baby. There’s nothing I want more.”

“The pinch between his brows is kind of cute, and it takes a good amount of self-control—an amount I didn’t know I possessed—to keep my thumb from smoothing it back out.”

“God, those fucking dimples. They do something stupid to my brain.”
~same bestie same 😭

“His head drops against my shoulder and he lets out a soft, husky laugh that...hell. It does everything for me. Fries my nervous system, short circuiting my brain enough to make our rivalry seem like a thing of the past.”

“You know, I really fucking hate you sometimes.”
He laughs that smooth, satin laugh of his, squeezing me against his chest even tighter than he was moments ago.
“I know, baby. I love you too.”
~ 😭✋


𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝘃𝗶𝗯𝗲𝘀:
Damaged like us — Krista Ritchie & Becca Ritchie

[Laura Jane ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ rounded up!!
Ahh stop, I love them so much 🥹 I literally just read the epilogue with the biggest smile on my face that my jaw aches hehehe!

I just loveeeedd Quinton and Oakley’s dynamic. The banter, the hate energy turned to heated spicy moments 🤭 and mixed in with the most adorable little things they did. Like it was actually the cutest and most heartwarming thing watching them fall for each other - whilst they slowly let their walls down and showed each other deeper parts of themselves and learning to be vulnerable.
Not to mention they are so hot, together, individually just hot daayym 🔥

Overall a really fun, adorable and spicy read!!
QuinnOakley my little angels!! 🫶🏼

“I was the one who chased in the beginning. It’s your turn now, baby.”

Definitely what I needed off the back of my last read, like this literally saved me from entering a slump!!! Nothing groundbreaking but it still hit the spot!

____________
Pre-read: If you saw me saying I was starting another book, no you didn’t LOL. Apparently this one is way better and ofc I listen to my book besties - don’t judge the cover thanks 🤭

[Mila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third reread: August 2025

***4.0 rating***

same rating. I have been binging hockey romance this month idk🤷‍♀️


Second reread: August 2023

***4.0 rating***

Upon my initial reading of Iced Out a year ago, it immediately captured my interest and, as evidenced by my original review, I found great enjoyment in it with only a minor quibble. The decision to revisit it was prompted by the recent release of "Caught Stealing," the second book in the series, and my somewhat forgetful memory necessitating a refresher on the events of the inaugural book.

I am genuinely pleased that I opted for a second reading, as it granted me a deeper appreciation for the characters and their journeys. The dynamic between Oak and Quinn, which commenced with enmity, gradually evolved into a charged undercurrent of sexual tension that grew increasingly palpable. My initial encounter with this narrative left me a tad vexed by the frequency of the intimate scenes and the way in which Oak shouldered unjust blame for Braxton's actions, despite Braxton being the instigator who initially manipulated Quinn's drug test. However, with the benefit of revisiting the text, these concerns waned, replaced by a profound captivation with the evolving passion and intricate bond between Oakley and Quinton.

Though these two protagonists embarked on their journey as adversaries on and off the ice, a transformative encounter at a fraternity gathering acted as a catalyst for their gradual metamorphosis. Their connection, initially borne out of antagonism with added perks, deepened substantially as they spent more time in each other's presence. This progression saw the transformation of animosity into desire, and that desire blossoming into a profound love. The evolution of their relationship was a narrative delight, a testament to C.E. Ricci's skill in crafting their connection.

"Oak" and "Quinn," as they've affectionately come to be known, are a precious pairing. Their emotional evolution, from their tumultuous beginnings to the tender love they share, is a captivating narrative thread that resonates profoundly with readers.

If you haven't read this yet, you should! And by doing so you can expect:

-Enemies with Benefits
-Rival Teammates
-Enemies to Lovers
-College Sports
-Opposites Attract
- Secretive Relationship
- Many delicious spicy moments 😏
-Hockey for my hockey lovers

I am excited to read book 2. I know my boy Holden is gonna be involved in some love shenanigans, so looking forward to it!

_______________________________
***3.75 rating***

"I’m about to cross Michigan Avenue when a hand lands on my forearm, halting me in my tracks. There’s not even a second for me to register what is happening when Quinton reels me back into him, and without hesitation, drags me in for a kiss. The second kiss of the day, but this is entirely different than the first."

Iced Out is an enemies-to-lovers story centered around hockey at Leighton University. Oakley and Quinton have it out for one another, enemies on ice and off the ice, or so it seems. The feud started way back in high school. Quinton cannot stand the golden boy of hockey, Oakley, and his legacy ties to the sport. While the less hostile party, Oakley cannot stand Quinton's jabs at his family ties to the sport or Quinton's hot temper that aggravates just about everybody.

Both guys think they never have to see each other again after high school, wrong! Somehow fate has them ending up at the same university and on the same hockey team, a sport which they both love no matter how much they "hate" each other that is the one thing they seem to have in common. Due to their "beef" in high school, no love is lost between our boys. Golden boy Oakley has the team wrapped around his finger but not the coach, even though that is his uncle. Unfortunately, an injury leaves Oakley's position as captain on hiatus. Quinton is instead the interim captain. This certainly adds fuel to the fire and their so-called feud. The team isn't happy about having Quinton as captain, but when circumstances change and our supposed "enemies" hook up at a party unexpectedly, things begin to change for Quinton and Oakley, both off the ice and on the ice.

Attraction, lust, and other feelings are developed between these hockey players, and the supposed "beef" is put to a halt. Quinton and Oakley navigate their new sexual relationship and begin to develop romantic feelings for one another. While Oakley is a self-assured gay man, this new relationship for Quinton is life-changing and his first relationship with a man. It's a new discovery of his sexuality, something he welcomes and cherishes. Quinton and Oakley become "Quin" and "Oak" the more time they spend together and the more time they get to know one another on a deeper level. While the reason this "fling" began was sort of stupid, I couldn't help but enjoy the change in their relationship. Oak and Quin were very sweet and cute together. As a reader, I loved when they confided in each other, especially when Quin told Oak about his complicated relationship with his parents and their lack of support for his passion (hockey). I empathized with Quin and felt his loneliness as a reader. His only friend seemed to be his roommate Haynes. So, when he got with Oak, a bit of that loneliness seemed to fade away. I also enjoyed how affectionate they were with each other out of the blue, like their unexpected hugs, kisses, and cuddling. There were many sex scenes, but I found their non-sexual moments together more powerful and romantic. I also loved how thoughtful Oak was with Quin; he made sure to include him in his family and listened to him when Quin didn't have a shoulder to lean on. As you can see, they had many sweet and meaningful moments together outside of the sex, and as a reader, I appreciated that. However, I did not like the dramatic moment in the book, or in other words, the "betrayal." It wasn't really Oak's fault tbh, and I thought Quin's reaction, while understandable, was a bit much. He could have handled it better. Oak didn't need to grovel as much as we see him do in the book to win Quin back.

One issue I have with the enemies-to-lovers trope is that it continues for a while but quickly fades away when the main characters get together. This makes it less appealing to the reader, and sure the author tells us why they "hate" each other, but the supposed "hate" felt more like a dislike, and honestly, "the beef" was kind of dumb. It's very forgettable and ineffective for the author's trope. The ending, again like other books I have read recently, was rushed and boring; I wanted something more believable and less hallmark. Idk. This was overall a decent read; I enjoyed it much more than the other book I have read by this author (Dare You or whatever it's called). If you like this author's work, I think you will definitely enjoy this one.

[ivy · Rating 4 out of 5]

1st read - DNF @ 37%

2nd read - DNF @ 3%

3rd read - The Charmed One!

”The world wouldn’t crumble around us if you admit you like me. Even just as a person. Please tell me you know that.”

His expression softens then, and one hand traces up my side. I feel the heat of his skin through my shirt, and once his fingers have passed any specific spot, goosebumps are left in their wake. Another new effect he has on me.

“I think it’s just safer to pretend I don’t.”

I know that. The problem is, I wish I didn’t. Just like I know it’s a problem for me to be seeing him in a completely different light than I was a couple months ago. In fact, I’m struggling to hold on to the reason why we were even enemies in the first place.”

…..and that is why enemies to lover’s reigns supreme.
Glad I gave this book a third try after two early DNFs. I ended up really loving Quinton and Oakley. The stars are all for them.

[buket · Rating 4 out of 5]

THIS WAS SO SO SO CUUUUUUUTE🩷🦋💋💝🥰🤍

reading this for my youssie <3

[alayla ! · Rating 4 out of 5]

→ 4 ☆

“i want you,” i whisper, like a secret in the night. “i want you so much, i can’t stand it.”

🎧 : bad idea by dove cameron

was the pacing definitely a little off? for sure. did i still eat this up? for sure. 😋

quinton de haas , our first mmc, is reserved, laid-back, and confident, yet emotional and genuine (with his person). i loved seeing him open up to oak throughout the book. he let oak see another part of him entirely, beyond just sex, oak got to see a part of quinn that was raised by his au pair. a quinn whose parents had never shown him a connection beyond wanting him to be the picture-perfect son. don’t be fooled, that doesn’t mean quinn doesn’t radiate confidence and sex appeal, as oak lovingly says. quinn is the kind of guy who can go with the flow, and still be perfectly content with it. nevertheless, he’s ill-tempered and a hothead. which is how oak and quinn’s feud began in the first place.

oakley reed , our second mmc, is officious, slightly judgmental, and a homosexual lad. when i say judgmental, i mean he’s kind of an asshole in the worst way possible. yeah, quinn would pretty much throw a punch for funsies, but oak thought himself higher than the rest of the world. he often refers to baby bi’s saying that he doesn’t hook up with them. having a preference isn’t the problem here, it’s the fact that his inner monologue is often (and i mean OFTEN) invalidating them, and their journey of self-exploration. the only difference between the baby bi’s in oak’s head, and quinn (a baby bi), is quinn is already confident as a person. of course, we see him nervous from his pov, but he knows what he likes and applies that to oak and their rendezvous.

oak & quinn were so cute, in my humble correct opinion. i understand why others wouldn’t like them, but i adored their banter immensely. after quinn decides that he must prove to oak he would indeed give the best blowjobs—resulting in a bathroom quickie—they win a game after a losing streak the entire season. so, being the superstitious hockey players they are, they strike a deal; hookup the night before a game every time. win-win situation; blow of some steam & anger that they hold for each other and good sex. this goes on, and GASP feelings (who has those?? pffttt) get involved. however, an incident that oak was technically involved with comes back to haunt their newfound bond.

spoilers ahead.

in the very beginning of the book, oak and a friend of his—whose name i forgot—were complaining that quinn was captain. so naturally, that friend steals oak’s leftover pain medication from a previous and serious injury (which is the only reason oak isn’t captain) and rigs quinn’s drug test! yup. oak is suspicious of his friend, kind of knowing what he did, but wasn’t “100% sure” although his friend made it very obvious. later on in the book, around third act conflict time, quinn discovers the EXACT medication in oak’s side table (oak was unaware of what the friend specifically did, but whatever). as you can imagine, quinn feels very betrayed and dumps oak. can’t say i blame him, oak needed a huge wakeup call. oh, my lord. blahblahblah, grovel (surely not enough), they win the championship, and they get back together!! there’s a cutsie epilogue to go with it, and i overall had a lot of fun.

mwah,
alayla. 📖

──────

stop i rlly liked this rtc <3

[Larissa Cambusano · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG I ATE THIS UPPPPP!!!!!!!!

it was so fast paced, fun, sweet, spicy!! it had everything i needed and more. these two were amazing.. their banter, the enemies to lovers / teammate vibes!! cant wait to read the other stories!

“all is fair in hate & hockey”
<3

[Renae Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***

Oak and Quinn are the ultimate enemies!!! I had so much fun reading Oakley and Quinton in Iced Out. They are hockey players in college who are forced to play alongside one another, which is proving quite difficult due to their intense animosity that originates from high school.

Oak and Quinn have great tension that is amplified due to their insane chemistry. Eventually, everything boils over in a classic enemies-to-lovers fashion. The encounter is electric as both Oak and Quinn realize they are possibly more than enemies. This creates the enemies-with-benefits dynamic, which I was excited to read because I don't see this trope very often.

I enjoyed how complicated these two guys are and found myself conflicted due to the many misunderstandings and secrets that I knew would eventually cause many issues.

Overall I thought Iced Out was a fun, medium-angst story that works in the classic CE Ricci fashion where you will probably shed a tear, but love every angsty moment of it. So happy to have a new book from her after her hiatus. She has been greatly missed.

Also... I loved all of the teasings of future Leighton U books, there will be some very exciting and entertaining future pairings. Overall this was such a fun read that has created such anticipation for what will be next!!!

[Julia (bookish.jka) · Rating 5 out of 5]

" So you thought it was good, huh?" He doesn't turn around; just flips the bird over his shoulder and keeps walking away."

She's back! The inimitable C.E. Ricci returns with an absolute cracker in Iced Out, which is book one in her new Leighton U series, a college sports romance series based around an ice-hockey team. This is Oakley and Quniton's story and it is SMOKING HOT!

Now there is just something about this genre of MM book that makes it one of my favourites to read (hmmm.....could it be all the fit athletes? Who knows....😈) but when you throw in some classic C.E. Ricci mid-level angst, some hard core "enemies to lovers-rivals on the same team-got to keep it secret-opposites attract" type vibes, it is game over, you had me at hello time 💙.

Quin is everything I love in a bad boy with flaws, just waiting for that special person to break down his walls, and Oak is that perfect rule-follower, always gives 110%, must maintain control at all times type of guy on the outside, but with a reckless passion within that's just ready to ignite.

I totally loved it and can't wait for Holden's story in Caught Stealing, out in 2023.

All the stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Kati *☆･ﾟ · Rating 3 out of 5]

re-read on audio August 2023

I only bought the audio because of Christian Fox. And gawd it was good listening to him again when he was finally doing something for the MM romance world again. Tho I hoped he would make me enjoy this book more the second time around, it didn’t quite work out. —it was as lame as it was before, tho he was my bright spot in this. And while Liam DiCosimo generally did a good job narrating as well, what he did to Quinn (not his character) made him sound like a 50 year old smoker.

I looooved the whole end tho and it makes up for a lot the book was lacking which is probably why I decided on three and a half stars the first time instead of just three. But at least it was hot. I’ll give it that.


3.5*** stars

“Fight me, baby. There’s nothing I want more.”

I liked these idiots, Oak & Quinn. With these two not liking each other as much as they did, I really appreciated the superstition approach by the author a lot to get them down and dirty early despite their animosities. How they taunted each other into this was pretty hilarious… and hot. And they really had some super sweet moments.


The plot as a whole was a bit lackluster for me but overall I enjoyed reading this book. Well that was up until the infamous 80% mark. It went a little downhill for me then - the drama, the hurting and the sappy ending. And there also was a little too little actual hockey in there for this being a sports romance tbh. (never would’ve thought I’d say that, actually)

Regardless, I’m looking forward to the next books in the series even if I expected a different pairing for the next one.




What I learned: a book is def less enoyable for me if I have to drag it over daaaaaays to finish. It sucks when you lack the time to get cozy with a good read.



***********
Leighton U Series

Book 1 - Iced Out - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Caught Stealing - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - Fair Catch - wait for audio
Book 4 - Playing Dirty
Book 5 - Fake Shot

[Pauline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I mean this was completely ridiculous but also it’s Christian Fox, sooo 🤷‍♀️

Yeah, so this had a super ott, silly set up -

ofc I’ll blow my arch nemesis because he made a very vague dare and ofc I’m sucking cock like I’ve been doing it for years even though I’m kinda straight, and ofc I’ll keep on doing that because after the bj we won a game and we don’t wanna mess up the new juju

- but all in all very fun and exactly what I was in the mood for!

And BABES that shower scene was.. 🥵🫦
Just the tip is such a classic for a reason lol

Those two were really fucking horny but also super cute and I loved how they lifted each other up and believed in the other when no one else did 🥹
So it turned from a bit (a lot) ridiculous to very wholesome and sweet and that’s what I like to see 😍

Also, again, Christian Fox.
A good, silly time was had.

[Noa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You know all's fair in hate and hockey."

Hockey.
Only hockey. That's the most important thing.
That's the only thing both Quinton de Haas and Oakley Reed can agree on.
They've been rivals all of their lives.
They hate each other. Can't stand each other.
But for the game they are willing to do anything.
So after one night becomes a superstition.
They do it for the team. To win.
That's how it starts… But is that how it's going to end?

"Everything he does unravels me a little more."

I remember reading this for the first time and absolutely loving it and I am so happy that didn't change in the reread. These boys will always live rent free in my head and heart and I cannot thank C.E. Ricci enough for that. This book is packed with banter, sarcasm, comebacks, and spice. Also shout out to the hockey fights and the aftermath that comes with it 😏😏 One of my all-time favorite MM romanced - hands down 🙌🙌

"Fight me, baby. There's nothing I want more."

Quinton de Haas is the captain of the Timberwolves college hockey team… at least for now. Hockey is his main focus. Nothing else. He is considered the "bad boy" in this book but honestly his vibe is "looks like could kill you - is a cinnamon roll." AND I WILL DIE ON THIS HILL. His relationship with Oakley - I mean he was the one that instigated it technically in the bathroom (IYKYK). And his backstory with his family and the contradiction of that with Oakley's family - absolutely melted I swear MELTED. And it was his idea for the whole ~superstitious~ start and I mean genius idea imo - 5 out of 5 stars can't complain 😇😇

"That's what I am when it comes to Oakley. Addicted, and desperately craving another fix."

Oakley Reed is a pacifist. Except for when it comes to Quinton de Haas and that is honestly one of the best tropes 🤣🤣 I mean love everyone but you is such a vibe and mood. While both of the boys are doing the most to prove themselves - they are each doing it for different reasons. Oakley wants to get out of his last name shadow and that is why he is trying so hard on the ice - much to Quinton's anger (in the beginning). The banter these two have I absolutely love! And Oakley's sarcasm I can definitely relate (ngl). And the thing with the agent?!?!?!?! I was absolutely swooning 🌟💙

"You think you're the one in charge here, de Haas?"

Okay so this one was a tough one because C.E. Ricci makes playlists like it's no one's business so I just went with the flow and whatever fit in my head fit in my head and in the end I cannot complain at all - so these are the songs that I added 😇😇

(Link - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0MA... )

🎶 "For the Love of the Game" - Secrets In Stereo
🎶 "Along Together" - Fall Out Boy
🎶 "enemy" - Charli xcx
🎶 "I Hate Everything About You" - Three Days Grace
🎶 "The Violence" - Asking Alexandria
🎶 "Hit Me Where It Hurts The Most" - Every Avenue
🎶 "You're Gonna Go Far, Kid" - The Offspring
🎶 "Can't Kick Up The Roots" - Neck Deep
🎶 "OWN MY MIND" - Maneskin
🎶 "Paralyzer" - Finger Eleven
🎶 "Hook Me Up" - The Veronicas
🎶 "Victorious" - Panic! At The Disco
🎶 "Friction" - Imagine Dragons
🎶 "Bad Decisions" - Bastille
🎶 "Burn" - Tom Walker
🎶 "Saints of the Sinners" - The Faim
🎶 "BABY SAID" - Maneskin
🎶 "Love The Way You Hate Me" - Like A Storm
🎶 "The Wolf" - The Spencer Lee Band
🎶 "Lose Control" - Teddy Swims
🎶 "Meddle About" - Chase Atlantic
🎶 "Bones" - MOD SUN
🎶 "…Fuck" - Johnny Rain
🎶 "Can You Feel My Heart" - Bring Me The Horizon
🎶 "I Feel You" - Depeche Mode
🎶 "Addicted" - Saving Abel
🎶 "F.I.N.E" - Too Close To Touch
🎶 "The Pretender" - Lewis Capaldi
🎶 "Chokehold" - Sleep Token
🎶 "Misfits" - Magnolia Park, Taylor Acorn
🎶 "If You Have My Voodoo Doll, Give Me A Hug" - Loveless
🎶 "Get Lucky" - Halestorm
🎶 "Rush" - Troye Sivan
🎶 "The Heart Wants What It Wants - Rock" - Our Last Night, Craig Owens
🎶 "Black Sheep" - Metric
🎶 "I Feel Like I'm Drowning" - Two Feet
🎶 "Fallin' (Adrenaline)" - Why Don't We
🎶 "War Pigs" - Eva Under Fire
🎶 "HEAVYWEIGHT" - Ryan Oakes, Loveless
🎶 "I Want To" - Rosenfeld
🎶 "Power Over Me" - Dermot Kennedy
🎶 "The Drug In Me Is Reimagined" - Falling In Reverse
🎶 "Numb" - Linkin Park
🎶 "Baby" - Madison Beer
🎶 "Sugar, We're Goin Down" - Fall Out Boy
🎶 "HONEY (ARE U COMING?)" - Maneskin
🎶 "Movement" - Hozier
🎶 "I Don't Want to Be" - Gavin DeGraw
🎶 "Granite" - Sleep Token
🎶 "Breathe" - Kansh
🎶 "Consequences" - Camila Cabello
🎶 "Bitter Sweet Symphony" - The Verve
🎶 "Harder To Breathe" - Letdown.
🎶 "Slow Hands" - Niall Horan
🎶 "Shatter" - Maggie Rogers
🎶 "From Eden" - Hozier
🎶 "Take Me to the Pilot" - Ben Platt
🎶 "True Colors - Cover" - All Time Low

And also because it's C.E. Ricci then you know the spice is gonna be absolute 🔥🔥

"Fuck, this is a pretty sight. Had I known this was the best way to get you to shup up, I would have suggested it years ago."

"Fuck, baby. I love the sound of you choking on my cock."

"God, listen to you. So fucking needy for me, and I've barely given you anything."

"Lemme see how hard you get from me fucking your face."

🏒 Tropes 🏒

🧦 Rivals/Enemies to Lovers
🧦 Hockey Romance
🧦 Golden Boy x Bad Boy
🧦 Secret Romance
🧦 Opposites Attract

Book Edit - https://www.instagram.com/p/C-K4q73oq...

[Maartje · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️ Iced Out - C.E. Ricci ❤️

❤️‍🔥 enemies to lovers
🏒 sports romance
😍 bad boy × golden boy
🌈 bi-awakening
💌 second (and new) chance

1st re-read ✨️✨️✨️

I still LOVE this book so much! 😭 Quinton and Oakley are everything 🩷 Needless to say that Iced Out is my favorite hockey/enemies to lovers romance of all time 🥰 If I could give this book a thousand stars on here, I would! Thank you C.E. Ricci 💗

1 read ✨️✨️✨️

"I came out to have a great time and I am honestly feeling so attacked right now". I started reading Iced Out by Ricci to lose myself in a light m|m read... Instead I got on an emotional rollercoaster. Iced Out is the first C.E. Ricci book I ever read and will definitely not be the last. Quin and Oak live rent free in my thoughts from now on.

[glavreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh my GOD this was so good

what’s better than one hockey player? two hockey players

quinton and oakley have been rivals on the same team since high school and four years later, their feud is as bitter as ever but now their team is tanking the season. one night at a party, they see each other and start bickering which leads to taunting each other about who’d be better in bed which leads to quinn dragging oak into a bathroom to prove him wrong. they’re both shocked afterwards but the win the game the next day so quinn proposes they keep hooking up before their games. oakley is dubious but can’t deny the superstition or that he’s attracted to his rival.

this was soooooo hot and so sweet. oak was openly gay but quinn had thought he was straight his whole life but as soon as he realized he liked oakley, he was all in for him 100% and would take whatever he could get. so many cute gestures and so much spice 🥵

[Lau ♡ · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF 29%

I’m tired of reading this and it’s only 29%. I’m starting to see this is going to be yet another enemies-to-lovers sports romance 95% of my friends seem to love while my heart remains unmoved. I’m so sorry, I tried but I can’t follow their train of thoughts Who the hell uses those facts to reach that conclusion? and the other goes along with it?

It’s way too much for my brain and I’m bored of being bored. Since this has been hanging untouched on my kindle for over a month, I think it’s time to admit defeat.

[babygyalreadit · Rating 5 out of 5]

YES YES YES FÜCK FÜCKING YES!!!!

All the moments in this book were just too fucking good and I wish I could read it over and over and over again. I can’t and won’t ever get over these two Omg.

THE FIRST PARTY
THE SOCKS!!!
THE PUCK UNDER THE PILLOW
THE LIBRARY
THE FERRIS WHEEL
DINNER AT HIS PARENTS
THE CONTRACT
THE CAR RIDE
THE LEGACY!!!
THE STUDY SESSIONS
WATCHING TV ON THE COUCH
THE NIGHT HE FELL ASLEEP

I WANT TO LIVE IN THIS BOOK FOREVER

[anmol · Rating 3 out of 5]

if i didn't like quinn and oak sm together, i'd have fought oak for him idc 🙄

[Cat the bookworm (still at the cottage in AO3 land) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s very warm outside, so I decided to read a hockey romance. There are worse ways to choose your books, right?

So what I’ve been looking forward to was an easy, hot (despite the ice 😬) enemies/rivals to lovers book I could listen to while driving, or while sweating on my sunbed, listening with my eyes closed.

It started off… ok. Not too taxing, but a bit bland. The enemies trope felt a bit forced tbh, seeing as Quinton (the straight guy in this equation) only needed like 1 minute to fall on his knees for Oak (the gay part of the equation). After that, it took him around 0.2 secs to accept that he is, in fact, bi, and to start chasing (and falling for) Oak, who proved to be the reluctant one here.

On top of that, there were quite a few things that made me roll my eyes. One example of things I have great difficulties thinking a guy would do: tattooing his astrological sign.

The ram’s skull across the top of his back and shoulders is sexy as hell. It’s more of a sketched style of artwork, the linework messy but the shading and depth created in it is impeccable. And as for why a ram…well, it’s because he’s an Aries.

Or another:
I grin, popping my dimples.

I mean… Show me one guy. ONE. Who thinks like that. Like “hey, let me pop my dimples because I think I look cute when I’m popping them” 🙄

And yes, I’m nitpicking, because once you start to notice a crack in the wall, you keep staring at it, even if the narrators did a really good job keeping me entertained.

What I liked though: that they started hooking up after the first encounter because they’re both superstitious hockey players and don’t want to risk their winning streak 😬

So there I was, firmly expecting to be underwhelmed, when at some point, I actually began liking it. Was it predictable? Yes, especially the drama towards the end. But I got what I came for, even though all the dramatic apologies from Oak were a bit much.

But it was fun. I liked their banter, and their dynamics. And I loved there (predictable, but who cares at this point?) HEA.

And I truly hope that one day, we’ll get this fully inclusive and accepting vibe in sports, because there wasn’t an ounce of homophobia in this book, internalised or otherwise 👍🏻

3.5 stars rounded up because of the really good narration , especially the guy narrating Quinton’s pov.

[maya · Rating 3 out of 5]

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 3.5 stars

[Jono Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ / This is one of those books that gets better the longer you read. It just… definitely doesn’t start out that strong. The beginning is rough. The setup is abysmal, and the motivations for the early hookups are paper thin, but CE Ricci is a master of romantic tension and the romance is so strong it’s easy to overlook the issues once the story finally finds its footing.

As the characters open up, Ricci really gets to flex her skill with backstory. Quinton is incredibly well done and absolutely steals the show. Oakley is great too, but Quinton is the heart of the whole thing, and the way their romance develops and flourishes is genuinely wonderful.

Despite the rocky start, everything after that is surprisingly strong. And as someone who hasn’t connected with Ricci’s work before, I can easily say she’s converted me into a fan with this one.

[alex :) · Rating 2 out of 5]

i fear i didn’t care much for this couple at any point in the book. i specifically picked it up because i heard there was groveling, and i absolutely love a good mc who’s begging and crying for their partner to forgive them. so you can imagine my disappointment when i finally got to the scene and it only lasted a couple paragraphs. then fast forward to 3 weeks later and it’s obvious that oakley and quinton are about to become a couple again, so we missed out on extensive groveling that could’ve been added. if the romance is going to be bad, at least give me a good groveling scene 😩.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-Read 4.5

I enjoyed Oak and Quinn's story so much more the second time around!

I loved Quinn the first time I read this, but I feel like I noticed so much more about him this time around. I loved the vulnerability he shows by giving Oakley little pieces of himself and it hurt my heart when he was anxious about giving away how he really felt about Oak. The way Quinn just wants to be loved was so much more apparent too - I really liked his bond with Marta and Hayes - and when Oak noticed him feeling rejected I got all teary. When Quinn finds out what happened with the drug test it actually broke my heart, even though in my initial read I didn't feel as emotional about it at all! I must have been in a weird mood the first time I read this 😂😂

It also reminded me of how much I like Hayes and want to see his story, and also how intrigued I am by Oak's brother, Logan. Looking forward to the rest of this series and seeing how Kason moves on...

[hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Fight me, baby. There’s nothing I want more.”

The tattooed, dark haired bad boy that drives a motorcycle x the golden boy with blond hair is my goddamn FAVORITE. And they’re both hockey players? Rivals to lovers? SIGN ME TF UP!

I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I normally don’t have good luck with college sport romances because I find there’s never enough angst, and I’m constantly waiting for something to happen between the two MCs and I get bored. However, I really liked this one.

Oakley is our golden boy. He’s from a family of famous hockey players. Both his dad and uncle played in the NFL. He has a huge name to live up too. He’s got all the perfect qualities to be the leadership type. He’s calm, confident, and he’s got the stats in hockey to go big. However, there’s only one person who can make Oakley snap and that’s Quinton. Quinton is just as good as he is stats wise but he’s a full on rage ball and he’s known as the bad boy of hockey. He’s the type to hit first and think later. The tension is immediately there with these two because they are ultimate rivals in hockey, always battling to see who comes out on the top. Now in college, they’re on the same team. They have a little steamy encounter the night before their game. After a streak of loses, they finally win one. We know hockey players can be very superstitious, so they come to an agreement to continue these steamy encounters to see if they win again…..

The first 25% of this book was a little slow for me but once I got past that point I was loving it. There was the right amount of push and pull and their chemistry was sizzling. I think some people may be bothered by how many sex scenes are in this book. I wasn’t bothered by it because they establish an enemies with benefits situation so I expected it. So I say don’t get put off by this because you do get to see their connection build while being physical with each other, but also outside of that too. I find it didn’t take away from seeing their development.

The amount of angst in the story was perfect. It was enough for my heart to hurt for these characters and I was rooting for them so hard. This story is about how these two come together, but you get to follow them try to win a championship and there’s also some family drama with Quinton…..so lots to keep one interested in the story 😉

“Oh, baby,” he murmurs, sex and desire dripping from his voice as he layers his body over mine. “You know all’s fair in hate and hockey.”

🔥😍🥵 Ricci brought the steamy scenes as well. There’s one scene in particularly that’s in a library…… DAMN Y’ALL. They were sexy and I loved their banter. The transition to rivals with benefits to something more was done smoothy too, it didn’t feel rushed. The angst and steam was balanced out with soft moments which had my heart melting. Seeing the golden boy make the bad boy go soft for him is like my catnip. The power these two have over each other 😍 Oakley tamed a goddamn black panther, literally LMAO.

There was also no OW/OM drama which was refreshing. It’s nice to have other plot points other than having people who are there just to make the characters jealous.

The next book is Holden and Phoenix, so I’m very excited to read it! 😍

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/7/24
Review update:
Just finished my first audio reread of Quinton and Oakley and 🥹🫶 how is it possible that I loved them so much more this time around?! Christian and Liam did a freaking phenomenal job bringing these boys to life. Ugh. Perfection.
•••

12/22/22
**I received an advanced copy of Iced Out by CE Ricci and this is my honest review**

”But the problem about loving the very thing you hate is it destroys you to hurt it in return.”

It’s no secret that when it comes to writing I would read this woman’s grocery list if she handed it to me. Everything she writes is beautiful and soulful and takes you on the most vivid journey and this book was no exception.

Quinton de Haas and Oakley Reed have hated each other from the jump. They’re rivals. They’re enemies. They’re also teammates. But everyone knows that love and hate are two sides of the same coin.

•••

Quinton and Oakley gave me home feelings that a book hasn’t given me in a really long time. That when it was over I wanted five more minutes. But the writing and telling of their story was so cohesive and flowed so well that when it was over I couldn’t be sad because it felt like absolutely nothing had been left out. Sometimes you leave a story, even a really good one, feeling like maybe something was glossed over that needed more or you have a question that kind of lingers. This wasn’t one of those times, everything pulled together and I as a reader was left wanting for nothing. At the end of the day I could feel like these two had a real shot because I was privy to it all.

I, like every other basic bitch, love an mm hockey romance and hand to god this one will go down in history with the greats. Him. Heated Rivalry. Iced Out. I said it and I’m not taking it back.

⭐️4.91/5
🌶️4.7/5

For more content on this story check out the link below😘
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRqPQGdN/

[steph ⋅˚₊ &#x1065a; ྀི (on hiatus) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 ★

main thoughts:
okay guys I had a really fun time with this book seeing as I binged it all afternoon all the way until 1 am and I don't regret it one bit😭 I do want to mention that there were some flaws unfortunately to this book, one being the fact that sometimes I got a little cringed out at certain terms or the fact that TikTok was mentioned once but I got over it pretty quickly🫣 another thing was that I knew I was sighting up to read quite a bit of spice in this book, but I think we could have had fewer scenes then we did and more cute and fun scenes because I loved those scenes sm and wanted more ughh! like add a couple more of those scenes and this book would have been perfect 100%

⇩
The last thing I want to add is that the conflict bit at the end wasn’t my favorite, but at least it was making me a bit emotional and almost questioning whether I should just put the book down and call it a night😭 but luckily it was solved pretty quickly, the way it went about just wasn't my favorite thing ever though. Despite all this i had tons of fun and had to force myself to stop smiling at times. I know most people probably will find this book mid because if you think about it a lot of sports romances have similar plot lines but I cant bother to care in this case.

characters:

Quinton: definitely wasn't my favorite at first ,but that was to be expected he started to grow on me especially towards the end when we could tell that he wore his heart on his sleeve for sure. He ending up being even more of a cutie than I was ready for. I do think it also would have been nice to maybe have his sexuality explored more during this book.

Oakley: also a softie for this man he’s a cutie pie and I wish we got to see some more of how much a softie he can be for Quinton but we we’re definitely given that towards the end🤭 was his actions the best that one time or two? no but neither were Quinton’s like 90% of the time at the beginning.

romance:
ughh I loved it not even sure why these two apparently hated each other at first cause to me the rivalry didn’t make much sense besides the fact that they would randomly pick on each other but yk what I love them together I don’t care. I definitely think they bring out the best in each other for sure!!

quotes I love: 🩵

“You want them to see you for who you really are? Then you make them. At every turn, you take the version of you they want and you toss it out the window to get left in the dust. Because there’s nothing more important than being the person you want to be.”

”I mean the way he’s the first person I look for a text from in the morning, or how much my anticipation grows as I set foot into the arena, knowing I’m about to see him for the next hour or two. He’s become the high I’m constantly looking to chase, and with that, he’s integrated himself into my life almost seamlessly.”

”You know, I really fucking hate you sometimes.“
“I know, baby. I love you too.”

extra:
I finished the book and wanted more so bad, I feel like we deserved to have more cute scenes like I said before and we also deserved to see more of oakley’s family dynamics besides just the one scene we got and more about quinton's parents. I also wouldn’t have minded more hockey scenes or a epilogue that went further into the future, but despite all this I had a fun time and was entertained enough to binge this a little too fast😆

pre review:
ahh okay rtc later because it's almost 1 am rn and its time for me to get some sleep😭😴

pre read:
my october tbr is non existent rn😭 but it's okay cause i’m rewarding myself with what I hope to be is a fun and adorable read😆

[Jamie]

I calling it at 30% - DNF.

I am bored. I don’t buy into the hate or attraction. I don’t think either man is interesting or likable. There is also not much of a difference between them - I would literally forget who’s chapter it was while reading. The bi-awakening didn’t seem authentic or believable. I felt no chemistry. I wanted to love it but I’m not connecting with it at all. It shouldn’t feel like a chore to keep reading.