Those seven words hit Nolan Reid like a puck to the head.
Once destined for NHL stardom, a skiing accident left Nolan driving the Zamboni for the San Diego Sea Lions. But his humble life of maintaining the ice is about to get complicated.
The billionaire owner’s insane plan? Nolan fake-dates his daughter Zena to ignite her ex’s jealousy. The twist? Said ex is the team’s star player, and his green-eyed monster apparently fuels goals.
Suddenly, Nolan’s navigating a minefield of pretend kisses, all-too-real feelings, and death glares from a human sequoia oozing enough testosterone to give him secondhand chest hair.
With sparks flying, the playoffs looming, and her ex itching to use him as a toothpick, Nolan is playing a high-stakes game of Jealousy Jenga that could crumble any moment.
But for a shot at love with Zena? He might just risk it all.
Ice Ice Maybe is closed door, fake-dating, opposites attract, forced proximity, hockey romance with humor, heart, and loads of romantic comedy fun. No third-act breakup.
Rich Amooi is a Taleflick Discovery Winner, Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Recipient, Holt Medallion Finalist, and the Amazon Bestselling author of 24 romantic comedies, including It's Not PMS, It's You, Dying to Meet You, Royal Crush, and Men or Paws.
A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.
Another wonderful book by Rich Amooi! He never disappoints with lovable characters, witty banter, and a story that you'll never want to end.
I fell in love with Zena and Nolan, but watching the transformation of Zena's dad and his relationship with the mom also drew me in.
Of course, there is the brawny, handsome hockey player, but I loved that he wasn't the star of the book even though this story revolves around hockey. It's nice when the hero is someone more relatable and real.
If you need a fun romance that'll make you laugh, this book will be your next five-star read.
Ice Ice Maybe by Rich Amooi I really enjoyed this story. There are lots of laughs, some angst, deception, fake and real attraction. Nolan and Zena are perfect for each other. There is more love in this story - There is a very HEA and I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I did.. Reasons I enjoyed this book: Witty Unpredictable Easy-to-read Wonderful characters Happily Ever Afte Romantic Great world building Page-turner Entertaining
“Love doesn’t always follow a set timeline or pattern, sweetheart. Sometimes it sneaks up on you, and when it’s right, it clicks into place.”
~“I want you to date my daughter.” Those seven words hit Nolan Reid like a puck to the head. Once destined for NHL stardom, a skling accident left Nolan driving the Zamboni for the San Diego Sea Lions. But his humble life of maintaining the ice is about to get complicated. The billionaire owner’s insane plan? Nolan fake-dates his daughter Zena to ignite her ex’s jealousy The twist? Said ex is the team’s star player, and his green-eyed monster apparently fuels goals…
-Ice Ice Maybe is a lighthearted story with heart. It is closed door. It is filled with fake-dating, opposites attract, forced proximity, hockey, tension, banter, such heart, loads of romantic comedy, and with no third-act breakups. It has a charming mix of hockey, love, and laughter. Seeing Nolan and Zena journey through the highs and lows of their growing romance is a delightful experience. They have sparkling chemistry and together make such a great team. However, this story encompasses more than just romantic pursuits. There is humor amidst tender and even hard moments. The original characters and unexpected twists along the way will have your full attention. I love how this story shows the importance of making time for what is most important. With sparks flying throughout this story, it’s the satisfying ending, that will be able to leave you with a smile! 📚🙌🏻 🏒
“There’s nothing like a happy ending,”
#iceicemaybe #richamooi #allaboutthebestreads
-Content: There are several kisses throughout. The characters do share a hotel room/bed together. Nothing occurs between them but they make another hockey player think they are sleeping together. There’s another scene where the main characters walk in on her parents, and some skin is showing. There are some innuendos. Some talk of drinking.
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
It’s hard to write a review when you are still laughing. Ice Ice Baby is definitely a funny rom com that I feel I could read again and still laugh. Many things I enjoyed about this story. We meet Nolan, the San Diego Sea Lions hockey teams Zamboni driver. He gets called into the owners office where Nolan is told he has to date the owners daughter, Zena. Through a hilarious interaction, Nolan agrees. Of course there is an ulterior motive, and this is where the fun begins. I enjoyed the way Zena and Nolan really had chemistry and the plan was to fake date, but this crazy thing called true love came into play. Zena’s dad wanted to get a player Mitch “the decapitor” who used to date Zena jealous so he would take out his anger on the ice and they could win the Stanley cup. When the story had Nolan and Mitch involved holy cow true writing genius! I loved loved how Nolan poked the bear and how Mitch would respond. Nolan becomes something more to their family that was much needed. He helps remind them about love and family. This story had many funny spots as well as some poignant moments. I want to put in a request to the author Rich Amooi, I want Mitch to get his own story! Perhaps bring back Nolan and Zena for a little bit. I really just enjoyed their characters.
I really enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud several times. The antics of Nolan and Zena were outrageously funny. Definitely going to check out more books by this author.
A Host of Fresh Fun! Can you imagine - a father scheming and conning someone into dating his daughter? And the scheming doesn't end there! I just had to read this one! Loved all the characters so much. They had me giggling and laughing with all their antics and shenanigans and when they actually fell in love, well that was the cherry on top. This is a story to read and enjoy and come away feeling that life doesn't have to be serious at all. I read an early copy of this book and am happy to leave you my voluntary review.
Ice Ice Maybe, by Rich Amooi, easily ranks as one of his best books ever. The author always excels at fun banter between characters, and this book does not disappoint. There are several riotous scenes that you will not easily forget. Be on the lookout for near-naked pirates, promises to see a flux-capacitor, a Batman cape and rubber duck floaties, couch yodeling, and much more. I especially enjoyed the character development of Zena’s father. Do yourself a favor and get this fun book!
“Look at you, going from zero to hero.” “Just playing my part, darling.”
When zamboni driver Nolan is asked by the hockey team’s owner to pretend to date his daughter, Zena, to make a new player jealous, all bets are off. Not only is Nolan very suave and flirtatious, but he’s got surprising depth and the instantaneous connection between these two is all swoony attraction, hilarious laughs, and electric fire.
There were parts of the story that had me laughing so hard and there were other moments that pierced my heart with little darts of tenderness. Who knew there was so much loyalty, intelligence, and streaks of humor lurking on top of the zamboni? Rich Amooi delivers such a fun and entertaining story that is unlike any hockey romance I’ve read thus far.
With solid characters and many zany situations, Ice Ice Maybe is a swoon-worthy story that will melt socks off.
Grab a mug of hot chocolate and settle in with a story that is sure to bring squirms and giggles, topped with a healthy wallop of swoon.
I have been wanting to read a book by Rich Amooi for a while now, so I was super excited to dive into this one. I just loved it! It was such a different take on a hockey romance.
Nolan is a Zamboni driver who gets asked by his boss, the owner of the hockey team he works for, to date his daughter, Zena. Zena’s ex-boyfriend, who is a hockey player, will be joining the hockey team and plans to win Zena back. Zena has no desire to get back with him; and her father needs him focused on winning the Stanley Cup. Dating Zena is not Nolan’s cup of tea but he wants to keep the job he loves so he agrees.
This book was so funny and unpredictable! First of all I loved the no-rules rule when it came to fake dating. Zena wanted their relationship to seem real, and for the process to be fun and spontaneous. The no-rules rule also led to some early on kissing which I loved! I really liked Nolan. He was so thoughtful and had a good perspective on life, but he was also funny and had a bit of sass to him. Zena is not what he expected at all, she had so much more depth then Nolan thought and the two had amazing chemistry and flirty banter. I also really enjoyed the banter between Nolan and Mitch, Zena's ex boyfriend, they had me laughing so much. The book was just full of twists and fun situations that had me giggling. There were also some beautiful moments as well, like the octopus necklace and giving the hockey tickets away. This book was a very entertaining read and I can’t wait to check out more from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This contemporary hockey romance was just too cute. One of my favorite romance tropes is fake dating, and this was one of the more unique ways the couple end up together. Plus, the book is set in San Diego where I live, so it was fun to read about places that I am familiar with that are mentioned in the book.
Nolan is the zamboni driver for the San Diego professional hockey team. Zena is the daughter of the team's billionaire owner. The owner requests/demands Nolan fake-date Zena because he's bringing Zena's hockey player ex-boyfriend Mitch back to the team and Mitch plays better when he's mad. The hope is that Mitch will lead the team to a run for the Stanley Cup. Different, right? You don't get that set-up very often.
I loved Nolan and Zena's chemistry. They immediately hit it off and easily slipped into a couple-like relationship. Their teasing and inside jokes were so cute. Nolan did a great job of getting under Mitch's skin, and that jealousy equaled a big winning streak for the team. But, as is typical, the more time Nolan and Zena spend together, the less it feels like fake-dating and the more it seems real. Before long real feelings are there and now the couple has to fake-date without doing too good of a job to tip Zena's father off that their feelings are real. No problem, right?
Like a slap-stick comedy, one thing after another happens to drag the couple into crazier and crazier situations. Luckily Nolan and Zena are quick on their feet and always figure a way out of each mess. This includes dealing with Nolan's free-wheeling hippy-dippy parents.
This book is sweet and funny and will give you all the feels. I liked how open and honest the couple was and that there wasn't a third act break-up or any miscommunications between them. They presented a united front to everyone and faced their challenges together. This is a quick and easy read that you can read in an afternoon. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I'm definitely going back to read more of his books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kate Rock Book Tours. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Rich Amooi for my complimentary copy of Ice Ice Maybe. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Where oh where has Rich Amooi been my entire book reading life ?? Not me adding his entire backlist of 24 romcoms to my TBR. Wink wink
I loved everything about this fake dating hockey romance. Nolan and Zena are my new favorite romance couple. Their witty banter and open communication were a breath of fresh air. No miscommunication or third act breakup !!! The hockey references are spot on and I “may be planning a trip Nashville soon”.
I laughed out loud so many times while reading my husband started giving me the side eye. All the funniest scenes involved Nolan and Mitch, though the Nashville scene between Mr and Mrs Dalton is high on the list.
If you’re looking for a hockey romcom with fun characters and lots of travel via private jet, then you really need to read Ice Ice Maybe.
"Ice Ice Maybe" by Rich Amooi is a charming mix of hockey, love, and laughter. It’s like enjoying a cozy cup of hot chocolate on a frosty day—sweet, soothing, and just the right amount of playful. Zena and Nolan are truly a dream team on and off the ice. Their chemistry crackles with the intensity of a powerful slap shot, and their playful exchanges are as sharp as the best one-liners. Observing their journey through the highs and lows of their growing romance is a delightful experience. However, the story encompasses more than just romantic pursuits. Amooi weaves together humor with touching moments, creating a narrative that is as enjoyable as it is heartwarming. The eccentric characters and unexpected developments ensure that you’ll be hooked from page to page. If you’re in the mood for an uplifting tale that guarantees a smile, "Ice Ice Maybe" hits the mark. It's a fantastic mix of athletics, affection, and a generous dose of fun.
Zena's dad, Mr. Dalton, comes up with a plan that he believes will bring his hockey team all the way from last place to the playoffs! He just needs Zena's help to put the plan in play. Once she's in, all they need now is for Nolan, the team's zamboni driver, to agree to play along. The very creative Mr. Dalton never stops to think there may be a ginormous flaw in the plan. The main idea behind the plan, to make the big, mean hockey player, nicknamed "The Decapitor" works a little too well and just may make the entire situation a complete disaster. Who could know so many mishaps would await them along the way! Amusing to follow along as Zena and Nolan try to fight the building attraction between them in order to keep Zena's dad happy and off Nolan's back. But really, what can you expect when a father is scheming to get someone to date his daughter! How many fathers do something like that? Most want to keep any interested parties away from their little princess! Some real LOL moments, not unusual with a Rich Amooi read! Zena's dad remembering what attracted him to his wife in the 1st place, and the changes he makes in order to remind her as well, are as amazing as Zena & Nolan's story. You will not be disappointed!
This book was such an easy treat, once I started I couldn’t put it down.
What I loved the most was that all the plotlines were interesting and not just the one focusing on the main couple (I loved the story of his parents, her parents, their friends) and the character development for the dad.
One of the best parts of the book was that I could enjoy it without the frustration of miscommunication or unnecessary breakups. Every problem thrown their way was handled in a way that felt satisfying to me, keeping the story engaging but free from the usual angst. It was exactly the kind of feel-good read I needed to shake off my moodiness and get me out of a reading slump. Highly recommend for anyone in need of a heartwarming, uplifting book!
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Ice Ice Maybe by Rich Amooi is a closed door rom-com. Nolan proudly runs the Zamboni for the Sea Lions hockey team. His life is pretty smooth sailing until his boss, Mr. Dalton, tells him he wants him to fake date his daughter, Zena, to save the team. What?
This was a fun story with lots of heart and very engaging characters. It was a pleasure to watch the characters transform and figure out what is important in life. I laughed out loud throughout the story and enjoyed watching the story play out. There was wonderful banter, chemistry and great behind the scenes hockey action. This was a win.
Ice Ice Maybe by Rich Amooi is a great rom-com that will bring you joy. I greatly recommend!
I was given copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review!
Ice Ice Maybe by Rich Amooi. I really did enjoy this book. I got into it straight away. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I loved Zena and Nolan and how they were with each other. I loved the scene at Lucha Libre. Everett slowly warmed up to me. I loved Elana. Mitch I really didn't like. The burrito scene. I did love Zena's friend Jing. I loved everything about this book. There was nothing I didn't like. There were definitely omg moments. I did like Vivian and Rowan Nolan's parents. I did like the ending. I would definitely recommend this book
A romance that is so funny, I was continually laughing out loud! I love this author's books, and this is no exception. Nolan and Zena were a match in intellect, grace, bantering, and kissing. Their antics had me in stitches so many times. They both surprised me as the story went on with their hidden strengths and quick thinking. I loved both sets of parents and all their antics as well. Perfect ending.
What do you get when you make a zamboni driver and a billionares daughter fake date? A jealous ex, amazing families, and a quirky story!
However, this isn't your typical miscommunication. Does he / does she book. Nolan and Zena are zero nonsense people. They clearly communicate and work through the messes they make. Their interactions are lively, full of quick witty banter, and so many good one line comebacks.
It's a wonderful, cozy romcom that will have you laughing and pulling for them from chapter one.
I really enjoyed this book, the humor was realistic and not ridiculously over the top, and the relationships and friendships were believable. The food references throughout were fun and I looked forward to seeing what else they were going to eat! I l look forward to reading more books by this author.
You can’t help but fall in love with Zena and Nolan. You get to go through the journey of their relationship, the highs and the lows of it all.
And the father scheming him into dating his daughter?! I was cracking up! It was a fun little twist you don’t always see. I loved the dad. The book was full of giggles and laughs, plenty of swoon moments also.
This was truly a fun read on a Sunday afternoon. Yes, you read that correctly. The easy banter between all characters was quite entertaining and at moments true laugh out loud! I would definitely recommend reading Ice Ice Maybe!
I loved that the MMC (Nolan) was the Zamboni driver - and it’s his absolute passion! I really loved reading about how Nolan embraced life after his career ending injury, but rather than escaping the ice he embraced it by being responsible for the smooth surface to prevent any injuries on his ice.
Mr Dalton approaching Nolan to set up a fake dating arrangement with FMC (Zena) was brilliant, and so funny!
I loved how Nolan instantly fell into the role of besotted boyfriend and doted on Zena.
An absolutely heartwarming, comforting, easy read with no miscommunication, third act breakup or spice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
One consistently favorite thing about Rich’s stories is that they make me laugh out loud. Not many have that effect. I’ve taken to reading only a couple chapters a day to draw out the enjoyment of the book and delay the completion….until the next one!
This was such a fun and sweet read! If you’re looking to laugh and love a good fake dating plot this one is for you! Fair warning, there is zero spice in this book but it was just a delight to read. I loved Nolan and Zena and their parents. This book is full of funny shenanigans and heart.
Laugh out loud as always. Thank you Rich. This couples story is sweeter than Apple Pie. Nolan is taken from a comfortable job he enjoys to mix with the world of billionaires. Love his character.
Omg I laughed so hard while reading this book. From the moment Nolan walked in to meet Zena the madness started. These two had instant chemistry and amazing banter. The story had so many fun moments elevator rides, hotel rooms, hockey games. First time author to me and I am definitely a fan.
I love all of Rich's books. This is probably his BEST ever... and they're all good! Such a well developed story. Also, great romance without sex. Refreshing! So Laugh Out Loud Funny, as is his style. Sweet,caring, thoughtful. Love his books Read them All. Especially this one!
What a wonderful book. I truly enjoyed every moment I was reading it, some characters didn’t start out as very nice but by the time the end came everyone was good. Mitch got injured but when you play hockey that can be part of the game. Zena and Nola the main characters were perfect. Every book of Rich Amooi’s that I read is always better than the last one I read and I thought that one was perfect!! Thank you Rich for sharing your wonderful talent with your readers.