Off The Ice #1
Zayden & Tori
This hockey romance has everything I love: a feisty, principled heroine, a broody, quietly tender single dad, a six‑year‑old super sweet scene‑stealer (a,k.a. Maisie), and that delicious “we really shouldn’t… but oh no, we’re already falling” tension!
Tori is the kind of heroine I root for immediately. She’s smart, disciplined, and determined to protect her hard‑earned reputation in a field where women are scrutinized twice as hard. She has seen colleagues lose their reputation by getting involved with a player, so she’s determined to never date a player. And yet… enter Zayden.
A French‑Canadian hockey player and single dad who is doing his absolute best while running on emotional fumes. He’s not the typical cocky sports hero — he’s thoughtful, serious, and deeply devoted to his daughter. Many times in the story, we see him exhausted, not only physically but mentally. That vulnerability? Irresistible.
From the moment Tori is assigned to treat his shoulder, the spark is instant. Their therapy sessions become this slow, careful dance — both of them trying to stay professional while failing spectacularly. He looks at her like she’s the first person who’s really seen him in years, and she tries so hard to remember her mantra: no players. But their chats flow so easily, there’s instant trust.
Maisie is pure sunshine, she likes Tori immediately. Their bond grows naturally and tenderly through accidental babysitting moments, giggles, trust. Maisie blossoms under Tori’s attentions and it makes Zayden sigh in happiness. Watching this little found family form was one of my favorite parts.
There’s a sleazy teammate who crosses boundaries and retaliates when rejected — a storyline handled with care and realism. Zayden stepping up for Tori, taking responsibility, and advocating for her? That’s the kind of heroism I love: quiet, steady, and rooted in respect.
There are side characters that shine: Banks and Winnie. I’m already invested! I was thinking as I read that they would make a perfect couple, and to my delight, they are next book’s couple! Win!
This story is soft in all the right ways — a gentle romance built on trust, friendship, and the slow realization that sometimes the person you’re not supposed to fall for is exactly the one who feels like home. It’s found family, healing, and a man who finally gets to exhale because he’s found someone who stays. Same for Maisie!
I loved this story. Five stars, easily.
Purchase links
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3NIjzyQ
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4sGBKnU
Audible: https://geni.us/AudioHockeyProblem
Goodreads: https://geni.us/hockeyprbGR
About the author
Kendall Ryan writes contemporary romance. Her books have been featured on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestsellers lists a combined total of more than 100 times.
Connect with Kendall:
➜ WEBSITE www.kendallryanbooks.com
➜ NEWSLETTER www.kendallryanbooks.com/newsletter
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