On Thin Ice by L.A. Cotton

On Thin Ice is book #2 in the Lakeshore U series from L.A. Cotton. A few months ago I reviewed the first book in the series, Break the Ice, and fell in love with Rory and Noah. This time, the story focuses on Harper, Rory’s friend from class, and Mason, a left winger for the Lakers.

*I was given a free, advanced copy of this book for reviewing purposes.*

Harper and Mason

Harper was born with hockey in her blood. Her father played for the Lakers during his time in college and went on to the NHL until an injury forced him into early retirement. But her relationship with her father is nonexistent. She’s not the son her father wanted, and she’s never been able to earn her father’s love despite their mutual love of hockey. So when her father becomes an assistant coach for the hockey team and gets a place to stay on campus, she’s not at all surprised that she didn’t hear the news from him.

Harper wears her heart on her sleeve and gets too invested in people too quickly. Which means that her first dates never lead to second ones. She isn’t the girl that can play it cool or indifferent – something that I absolutely relate to.

Mason Steele is introduced briefly in book #1 at Hot Dog Tuesday when he and Harper begin arguing. He pegs Harper as a classic puck bunny – willing to use her Dad’s name to get into any of the players’ beds she can.

Just like with Harper, there’s more to Mason than being the broody, mysterious hockey player. His most important role is being his little brother’s hero. Their father walked out after Scottie was diagnosed with Autism. Mason takes it upon himself to help support his single mother and care for Scottie, even while attending Lakeshore U. Mason puts their needs before his own – including an understanding that if it comes down to a choice between them and playing in the NHL, he’ll choose them.

Final Thoughts

Yes, during his first interaction with Harper, Mason is… well, he’s an ass. But his spat with Harper came from a need to protect his friends and family. He has zero tolerance for b.s. He spots Harper’s masks for what they are – attempts at hiding the pain and rejection she feels on a daily basis.

Until they decide to spend one night together to ‘get it out of their systems,’ Mason is not a likable character. But man, when he redeems himself, he goes all out. It’s hard not to fall in love with him as a character once he stops trying to push Harper away.

If you’re looking for an slow-burn, angsty, enemies to lovers story with a FMC who wears her heart on her sleeve, and a MC that has his priorities straight, On Thin Ice is for you!

Do you enjoy hockey romance as much as I do? Will you be reading On Thin Ice? Let me know your thoughts and other book recommendations in the comments!

Looking for other hockey romance recommendations? Check out Double Pucked by Lauren Blakely!