A review by bookshelvesandtealeaves
Icebreaker by A.L. Graziadei

emotional hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I absolutely loved this book, oh my gosh.

I’ll start by saying I found the first 15%-ish a bit rough. I didn’t actively hate it but the MC seemed so up his own arse it was frustrating.

But that all quickly changed once Mickey started bonding with his teammates and we learn about his mental health struggles. I kind of wish this had been made a little more apparent at the start, but I also understand not doing that as a narrative choice, too.

Mickey’s struggles with depression felt so raw and real and relatable. I cried so many times reading this book. It felt so cathartic to see so many of my feelings and experiences put to page like this. I just wanted to hug him so much. His personal journey throughout this book was really beautiful and I’m so proud of him.

I LOVED his relationship with Jaysen. I love a rivals to lovers romance and this truly hit the spot. There were so many great moments between them, such an even balance of snark and soft.

If you’re looking for your next hockey romance, I definitely recommend giving this one a go.