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3.8 AVERAGE
3.8 AVERAGE
3.5 stars
Iced Out was low angst and a sweet, college sports romance. I can't put my finger on why, but this author's writing style doesn't keep my attention fully captured unfortunately. I honestly ended up bored a couple of times and needing to take a break. I've looked at other friends' reviews that loved the book so this is definitely a personal taste thing. I also want to point out that this is the first book in a new series, but other couples are mentioned who don't have books yet and it feels at times like maybe I missed a book, but that story's not out yet. I'm not sure why the author chose to release the books this way because those other stories will be ahead of this one chronologically, but not my story to tell. I just didn't want others to hunt around fruitlessly like I did.
Maya (h) and Easton (H) though are insta-attraction with a slow burn of Easton needing to show Maya that he's not like her perception of hockey players (her ex left a bad taste in her mouth). Maya captures his attention initially because she's feisty and doesn't immediately fall at his feet. I loved his immediate fascination with her and how he almost wipes out because he can't take his eyes off her, I did wish that their initial connection was built on a slightly stronger foundation though since it was more lust-based. The romance does build nicely of them getting to know each other and falling in love with plenty of cuteness, sharing of backgrounds, support of each other, and college life. They get donuts together, go for late night walks, etc.
Iced Out is pretty steamy once Maya does decide to go there with Easton and I liked that she does some new things with him, including incorporation of phone sex and toys. The focus of their romance though remains on the romantic side and didn't just become about the bedroom thankfully. Lots of emotional intimacy. Written in first person, dual POV. No real ow/om drama (H is propositioned by a woman after he meets h but does turn her down because he's just interested in h; h's ex pops up a couple times but no real attempt at getting her back, he's just a jerk and she's not interested) and neither are virgins (H did hook up when he could in the past and his friends do talk openly about women at times so there's a manwhore kind of feel without it being on page but he's so adorably into her and he is celibate after meeting the h; it had been months for h).
Shout out to cute animals because this has goat yoga, mention of horses, a friend's dog, and a cute cat friend. Lots of moments of Easton on ice and them with their friend group, building a big supporting cast for future books. Maya's brother is a rival of Easton's and both of their families are present in the book along with a plot line that does have a trigger warning for illness in a loved one and grief so please be mindful of that. Maya's BFF and roomie, plus a couple other friends, and Easton's hockey team form a large, sometimes loud, and happy friend group too.
There's no conflict so the story just takes them through their initial meeting through the start of their relationship, it's solidification to Maya's graduation and Easton's hockey future. There are two epilogues, a few months time jump ahead for the first and then another few months for the second. The ending is more of a HFN, but it has a HEA feel because they're solidly in love, planning to be together forever, both have made it clear how important the other is, and it's just very cute and loving for each epilogue. I do think some of my friends will rate this higher (as some already have) so I'd encourage folks to check it out!
Iced Out was low angst and a sweet, college sports romance. I can't put my finger on why, but this author's writing style doesn't keep my attention fully captured unfortunately. I honestly ended up bored a couple of times and needing to take a break. I've looked at other friends' reviews that loved the book so this is definitely a personal taste thing. I also want to point out that this is the first book in a new series, but other couples are mentioned who don't have books yet and it feels at times like maybe I missed a book, but that story's not out yet. I'm not sure why the author chose to release the books this way because those other stories will be ahead of this one chronologically, but not my story to tell. I just didn't want others to hunt around fruitlessly like I did.
Maya (h) and Easton (H) though are insta-attraction with a slow burn of Easton needing to show Maya that he's not like her perception of hockey players (her ex left a bad taste in her mouth). Maya captures his attention initially because she's feisty and doesn't immediately fall at his feet. I loved his immediate fascination with her and how he almost wipes out because he can't take his eyes off her, I did wish that their initial connection was built on a slightly stronger foundation though since it was more lust-based. The romance does build nicely of them getting to know each other and falling in love with plenty of cuteness, sharing of backgrounds, support of each other, and college life. They get donuts together, go for late night walks, etc.
Iced Out is pretty steamy once Maya does decide to go there with Easton and I liked that she does some new things with him, including incorporation of phone sex and toys. The focus of their romance though remains on the romantic side and didn't just become about the bedroom thankfully. Lots of emotional intimacy. Written in first person, dual POV. No real ow/om drama (H is propositioned by a woman after he meets h but does turn her down because he's just interested in h; h's ex pops up a couple times but no real attempt at getting her back, he's just a jerk and she's not interested) and neither are virgins (H did hook up when he could in the past and his friends do talk openly about women at times so there's a manwhore kind of feel without it being on page but he's so adorably into her and he is celibate after meeting the h; it had been months for h).
Shout out to cute animals because this has goat yoga, mention of horses, a friend's dog, and a cute cat friend. Lots of moments of Easton on ice and them with their friend group, building a big supporting cast for future books. Maya's brother is a rival of Easton's and both of their families are present in the book along with a plot line that does have a trigger warning for illness in a loved one and grief so please be mindful of that. Maya's BFF and roomie, plus a couple other friends, and Easton's hockey team form a large, sometimes loud, and happy friend group too.
There's no conflict so the story just takes them through their initial meeting through the start of their relationship, it's solidification to Maya's graduation and Easton's hockey future. There are two epilogues, a few months time jump ahead for the first and then another few months for the second. The ending is more of a HFN, but it has a HEA feel because they're solidly in love, planning to be together forever, both have made it clear how important the other is, and it's just very cute and loving for each epilogue. I do think some of my friends will rate this higher (as some already have) so I'd encourage folks to check it out!
Loved it
Once again a lovely book that's well written and pulls you into the characters life's. Loved this and definitely buying it ( read on kindle unlimited)
Once again a lovely book that's well written and pulls you into the characters life's. Loved this and definitely buying it ( read on kindle unlimited)
I loved this at the start but I kept getting distracted listening and it made me detach from the story and characters. It’s quite insta lovey and low stakes which added to me losing interest.
I don’t care to finish it atm.
I own it on audible so might try and listen to it at another date.
I don’t care to finish it atm.
I own it on audible so might try and listen to it at another date.
Booktok overhyped the hell out of this. Maybe because I had recently read a similar book before it, it seemed so corny and predictable.
What I loved the most was that there wasn’t a predictable messy breakup/make up scenario. It is just a mushy book about actually being a good partner and being there for someone you care about. There wasn’t a major relationship issue that usually makes me scream at the characters for being so stupid and annoying. While I still enjoy books with that type of drama, I found this book to be a comforting break from reality. We need more Easton Blakes in this world.
OBSESSED!
Easton and Maya blew me away, and I could not get enough of them. I loved their meet-cute, I loved their banter, I loved their connection, all of it. There was not one moment in this book that turned me away. Loved the rivals aspect that played out too.
Johnny was the worst. That's all I will say.
One thing I wasn't expecting, as this is my first book by Veronica Eden, was the emotional scenes. Now I'm an emotional person anyway, but there were a few scenes that had the tears flowing a bit. My heart broke for the characters, and I just wanted to wrap them up in a hug.
I really appreciated the hockey to romance ratio. Getting to see Easton and his team on ice, and the bond they had was fantastic. I was also glad to see Maya have a friend group in her corner, and see her apart from Easton. This book wasn't solely about their relationship together, but about their group of friends as well. Loved that.
I cannot wait for more books in this series! I'm hooked on the Heston U Hotshots!
Easton and Maya blew me away, and I could not get enough of them. I loved their meet-cute, I loved their banter, I loved their connection, all of it. There was not one moment in this book that turned me away. Loved the rivals aspect that played out too.
Johnny was the worst. That's all I will say.
One thing I wasn't expecting, as this is my first book by Veronica Eden, was the emotional scenes. Now I'm an emotional person anyway, but there were a few scenes that had the tears flowing a bit. My heart broke for the characters, and I just wanted to wrap them up in a hug.
I really appreciated the hockey to romance ratio. Getting to see Easton and his team on ice, and the bond they had was fantastic. I was also glad to see Maya have a friend group in her corner, and see her apart from Easton. This book wasn't solely about their relationship together, but about their group of friends as well. Loved that.
I cannot wait for more books in this series! I'm hooked on the Heston U Hotshots!
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
Veronica Eden's ICED OUT takes readers down a sweet path with some of my favorite tropes like sibling’s rival, college hockey, boy falls first, and more! This delightful story catches reader’s from the very beginning, and results in a quick read that will leave you with a smile undoubtably.
For me the highlight of ICED OUT was the adorable story itself. The chemistry between the two main characters, Easton and Maya, is done in a natural and authentic way. From their first encounter, their banter is laced with fun and charm, instantly drawing readers into their connection and begging for more! As the book progresses, their relationship is tested but thankfully this is a story of unwavering support. These character’s go out of their way to make the other safe and happy. Specifically, Easton's devotion to Maya shines through, creating heartwarming moments that will make you swoon.
Also, the supporting characters, particularly his teammates, are just everything. They add depth to the story, providing that found family aspect we all love. The teammates' presence enhances the overall experience, making the college hockey atmosphere feel more realistic. I am particularly interested in Madden and his story, and why he is so grumpy and protective of women, so I need Eden to release his ASAP. I think each teammate brings something special to the table so I am excited to see how it plays out.
So one minor downside of the book is the author's mention of certain characters and couples as if they were already known to readers. I took it upon myself to go and search Eden’s backlog but I don’t think these characters have books… This inconsistency was frustrating for me. Nevertheless, it did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall ICED OUT is a cute and fast read that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
For me the highlight of ICED OUT was the adorable story itself. The chemistry between the two main characters, Easton and Maya, is done in a natural and authentic way. From their first encounter, their banter is laced with fun and charm, instantly drawing readers into their connection and begging for more! As the book progresses, their relationship is tested but thankfully this is a story of unwavering support. These character’s go out of their way to make the other safe and happy. Specifically, Easton's devotion to Maya shines through, creating heartwarming moments that will make you swoon.
Also, the supporting characters, particularly his teammates, are just everything. They add depth to the story, providing that found family aspect we all love. The teammates' presence enhances the overall experience, making the college hockey atmosphere feel more realistic. I am particularly interested in Madden and his story, and why he is so grumpy and protective of women, so I need Eden to release his ASAP. I think each teammate brings something special to the table so I am excited to see how it plays out.
So one minor downside of the book is the author's mention of certain characters and couples as if they were already known to readers. I took it upon myself to go and search Eden’s backlog but I don’t think these characters have books… This inconsistency was frustrating for me. Nevertheless, it did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall ICED OUT is a cute and fast read that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.