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First love gets a second chance...
Norwegian-born professional hockey player Zaan Hagen has only ever loved two things: Hockey and Lexi. He never imagined he’d have to choose, until he was forced to let her go.
After beating breast cancer at sixteen, Lexi Rousseau vowed to live her life with no regrets. When her singing career took off with one of the hottest pop groups in the world, her dream came true— but it cost her the only man she ever loved.
When an unexpected turn of events brings them back together, Zaan and Lexi will have to learn to balance their demanding careers and irrefutable desires before history starts repeating itself. Have they finally figured out how to play the game without losing everything?
Norwegian-born professional hockey player Zaan Hagen has only ever loved two things: Hockey and Lexi. He never imagined he’d have to choose, until he was forced to let her go.
After beating breast cancer at sixteen, Lexi Rousseau vowed to live her life with no regrets. When her singing career took off with one of the hottest pop groups in the world, her dream came true— but it cost her the only man she ever loved.
When an unexpected turn of events brings them back together, Zaan and Lexi will have to learn to balance their demanding careers and irrefutable desires before history starts repeating itself. Have they finally figured out how to play the game without losing everything?
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2020
317 people are currently reading
864 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
June 12, 2020
OMG … You guys are going to have to forgive me for my #oldpeople moment and this book because it released TWO days ago but somehow *blank stare* and it was a damn near perfect read! #JesusSaveMeFromAllTheBooks
Okay, so what first attracted me to this read was of course the cover (it is #winning times 100 for a sports romance) and the fact that it was first in a series. Technically, Kat Mizera is not new-to-me but the one and only book I’ve read by her was back in 2017 and over 600 books ago so … plus she’s local to me and I’ve met her at a book convention. When I saw this cover, it was like the piece that put everything together for me and I had to read this book.
Thank God for all those pieces because this is one of the best sport romance stories I have read in quite a while!!
There is a lot of emotion wrapped up in this story. This is not a fluff story. It’s quite the opposite, but it is also not dark and/or heavy. There’s a ton of history between our leads and some of it is not so great but above all, the story always had a twinge of hope for me. I won’t lie, I cried a lot thru this story but that’s probably mostly on me lol I had a really devastating loss early last year and emotions now (good or bad) all seem to go to the extreme with me. When I feel, I feel deeper than I used to, especially any kind of loss and or trouble. So I shed a lot of tears for Lexi’s personal struggles and for them as a couple as well. I don’t want it to sound like I only felt this emotion because of the place I am at in my own life, because this journey is emotional and also uplifting and really well written! I think you guys are really going to enjoy Lexi and Zaan navigating their way to getting right. #TRUST!
Okay, so what first attracted me to this read was of course the cover (it is #winning times 100 for a sports romance) and the fact that it was first in a series. Technically, Kat Mizera is not new-to-me but the one and only book I’ve read by her was back in 2017 and over 600 books ago so … plus she’s local to me and I’ve met her at a book convention. When I saw this cover, it was like the piece that put everything together for me and I had to read this book.
Thank God for all those pieces because this is one of the best sport romance stories I have read in quite a while!!
There is a lot of emotion wrapped up in this story. This is not a fluff story. It’s quite the opposite, but it is also not dark and/or heavy. There’s a ton of history between our leads and some of it is not so great but above all, the story always had a twinge of hope for me. I won’t lie, I cried a lot thru this story but that’s probably mostly on me lol I had a really devastating loss early last year and emotions now (good or bad) all seem to go to the extreme with me. When I feel, I feel deeper than I used to, especially any kind of loss and or trouble. So I shed a lot of tears for Lexi’s personal struggles and for them as a couple as well. I don’t want it to sound like I only felt this emotion because of the place I am at in my own life, because this journey is emotional and also uplifting and really well written! I think you guys are really going to enjoy Lexi and Zaan navigating their way to getting right. #TRUST!
June 2, 2020
Apparently there is a prequel to this book in Sidewinders Ever After about how Lexi and Zaan first get together. I wanted to start this review out by saying that I didn't know that right away and didn't read it. While I think it would have been nice to know their beginning I don't feel like I missed a whole lot. I basically got the gist throughout this book. Now with that said here are my thoughts.
While I enjoyed this book and loved getting to know the next generation of Sidewinders I didn't completely love it. I had an issue with Lexi and I think that is my problem. Please don't get me wrong. That girl has been through a lot, especially at her age. She has trust issues and is extremely stubborn to a fault. I just thought that this whole story stemmed around her and what SHE wanted. It never seemed like she was willing to compromise or even listen to what Zaan had to say. I don't think she completely took his feelings into consideration until afterwards or was even completely there for him. Sure she went to his games but she never thought about what he was thinking. There were two instances that made me think that. The first one was the fact that she refused to listen to his idea of having another lawyer look at her contract until Casey brought it up. The other one was the music video with her and "another" male model. She didn't even think of Zaan doing it with her until someone else said it. She was just okay with making out with some strange guy.
I loved Zaan and his love for Lexi. He was always there for her and respected her wishes. I wish he would have been stronger from the beginning. I wish he had spoken up more and made her listen sooner. That man was all about hockey, but he was also all about Lexi. I just loved his love and ached for him so much. I'm glad he held strong.
I'm glad these two got their HEA. They deserved it. Looking forward to seeing who's next! *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.*
While I enjoyed this book and loved getting to know the next generation of Sidewinders I didn't completely love it. I had an issue with Lexi and I think that is my problem. Please don't get me wrong. That girl has been through a lot, especially at her age. She has trust issues and is extremely stubborn to a fault. I just thought that this whole story stemmed around her and what SHE wanted. It never seemed like she was willing to compromise or even listen to what Zaan had to say. I don't think she completely took his feelings into consideration until afterwards or was even completely there for him. Sure she went to his games but she never thought about what he was thinking. There were two instances that made me think that. The first one was the fact that she refused to listen to his idea of having another lawyer look at her contract until Casey brought it up. The other one was the music video with her and "another" male model. She didn't even think of Zaan doing it with her until someone else said it. She was just okay with making out with some strange guy.
I loved Zaan and his love for Lexi. He was always there for her and respected her wishes. I wish he would have been stronger from the beginning. I wish he had spoken up more and made her listen sooner. That man was all about hockey, but he was also all about Lexi. I just loved his love and ached for him so much. I'm glad he held strong.
I'm glad these two got their HEA. They deserved it. Looking forward to seeing who's next! *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.*
Want to read
October 14, 2021Free in boxset https://amzn.to/3DGK2C3
KISS THE ICE includes the following hockey romance novels:
Zaan by Kat Mizera
Shutout by Jami Davenport
Broken by Elise Faber
Anton by Brenda Rothert
December 2, 2022
This one frustrated me to no end, mostly on Lexi's end. I didn't doubt that Lexi and Zaan loved each other, but it drove me nuts that Lexi only contacted him when she needed something, like at the start of their relationship and then when she needed to flee. Lexi had people that she could have gone to for help, but she didn't, wanted to prove that she could do it all on her own, which was wrong. Then later when she and Zaan were back together, she kept pushing him away when he wanted to talk about their future, how it would work. I think that is what really bothered me, he wanted to know what was going on, what their future would look like, valid questions. I get that Lexi might not have had answers, but you could talk about what you wanted, but she didn't even do that. Nor did she talk very much about what was going on, leaving Zaan in the dark. It really annoyed me when Lexi flew off the handle about the contract. Zaan was trying to help, he had now way of knowing that you did something, you didn't talk to him. Casey did give Lexi some good advice and pointed out where both of them went wrong, but that Zaan reacted to what Lexi wasn't telling him.
I guess I'm ok with the ending, but it seems awfully quick for all the shit they have gone through and all the break ups.
I guess I'm ok with the ending, but it seems awfully quick for all the shit they have gone through and all the break ups.
June 9, 2020
Amazon / Universal / Apple / Nook / Kobo
Zaan and Lexi were once a thing. But schedules, careers, and life got in the way and they parted ways. They never stopped loving each other, though, so when they're offered a second chance, it's inevitable that they'll grab it with both hands.
But is Lexi really in the right headspace yet to handle a relationship with Zaan? She's got a lot of baggage, and they've been down this road before...
I have to admit right off the bat that I did not like Lexi, at all. I never thought she loved Zaan as much as he loved her, nor did I think she was mature enough or selfless enough to devote herself to a relationship. If I had to guess, this relationship wouldn't last anymore than their first time around did, because Lexi did not seem to give it or Zaan, her all the way he gave her his whole heart. That's why 4 instead of 5 stars. But aside from Lexi, I liked this story. Zaan is a sweetheart, and the storyline and the hockey make for an entertaining read.
ARC via L. Woods PR for an honest review.
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September 1, 2023
Lexi and Zaan had been dating in and off for about 4 years. They loved each other but both had careers that they travel.for and it spews always a struggle to make it work.
Lexi hates being in this group Special Kay and walks out of the BA d and tries to bet out of her contract. The other girls are yo much drama and bad for her mental and physical wellbeing.
Zaan is a hokey player and is still he same town that Lexi red a plane road home.
They have been apart over a year but still love each other so they try again to make it work. Now Lexi has a chance at better career choices and .among this relationship work with Zaan.
It is a nice story with a lot of drama on Lexi's part.
Rating 3 stars
Lexi hates being in this group Special Kay and walks out of the BA d and tries to bet out of her contract. The other girls are yo much drama and bad for her mental and physical wellbeing.
Zaan is a hokey player and is still he same town that Lexi red a plane road home.
They have been apart over a year but still love each other so they try again to make it work. Now Lexi has a chance at better career choices and .among this relationship work with Zaan.
It is a nice story with a lot of drama on Lexi's part.
Rating 3 stars
June 10, 2020
Kat Mizera is my go-to author when it comes to hockey romance, and I'm beyond thrilled that she decided to do this spin-off series with the Sidewinders.
The Generations Series starts out with Lexi and Zaan's story and what an amazing couple they are. Having previously read about them in Ever After, the story centers around them reuniting. Both have been through a lot and you have to wonder what will come of them now that they're older and gone their separate ways. Lexi has overcome so much but there's still that bit of chemistry between them that neither can ignore. Not to mention, they both have their own careers and that in itself is a major factor.
I love how Kat always brings previous characters back into her stories--these guys are like family and reconnecting them just feels right. Lexi and Zaan will certainly pull at your heartstrings and I just love them so much. Kat's stories are always entertaining and I often find myself enjoying them in one sitting She just has that way of sucking you in and you can't stop until you know how it's all going to end.
Zaan was a perfect start to the Generations Series and I'm looking forward to the next story. Great read that I think fans will enjoy!
The Generations Series starts out with Lexi and Zaan's story and what an amazing couple they are. Having previously read about them in Ever After, the story centers around them reuniting. Both have been through a lot and you have to wonder what will come of them now that they're older and gone their separate ways. Lexi has overcome so much but there's still that bit of chemistry between them that neither can ignore. Not to mention, they both have their own careers and that in itself is a major factor.
I love how Kat always brings previous characters back into her stories--these guys are like family and reconnecting them just feels right. Lexi and Zaan will certainly pull at your heartstrings and I just love them so much. Kat's stories are always entertaining and I often find myself enjoying them in one sitting She just has that way of sucking you in and you can't stop until you know how it's all going to end.
Zaan was a perfect start to the Generations Series and I'm looking forward to the next story. Great read that I think fans will enjoy!
June 9, 2020
Kat Mizera lights the lamp with ZAAN (Sidewinders: Generations Book 1). In this story, NHL player Zaan Hagen and Rockstar Lexi Rousseau were each other’s soul mates. They broke up due to being separated because of their careers. After an unexpected event, they are reunited and need to decide if they should give it another go. This contemporary sports/Rockstar romance is suitable for adult readers.
Kat Mizera does an exceptional job with this story. The characters are well-developed and endearing. Lexi is an amazing heroine who has endured a lot, including being a breast cancer survivor. Zaan is a compassionate and protective hero who makes your heart melt. The two grow up a lot is this story. They love each other but really must work to have a relationship with both of their consuming careers. There are a lot of compelling situations in this story that make this book hard to put down.
Zaan is an amazing start to the Sidewinders: Generations series. It is the perfect spin-off of the Las Vegas Sidewinders series. I recommend this book to people who enjoy, sports, Rockstar, and/or second chance romances. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Kat Mizera does an exceptional job with this story. The characters are well-developed and endearing. Lexi is an amazing heroine who has endured a lot, including being a breast cancer survivor. Zaan is a compassionate and protective hero who makes your heart melt. The two grow up a lot is this story. They love each other but really must work to have a relationship with both of their consuming careers. There are a lot of compelling situations in this story that make this book hard to put down.
Zaan is an amazing start to the Sidewinders: Generations series. It is the perfect spin-off of the Las Vegas Sidewinders series. I recommend this book to people who enjoy, sports, Rockstar, and/or second chance romances. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
June 9, 2020
Zaan by Kat Mizera is a story that will tug at the heartstrings. The feels are intense, the emotions deep...the bond bent but never broken.
This story has everything: 2nd chance romance, heartbreak, drama, passion, angst, deep emotions, feels and romance.
This is Zaan and Lexi's story..they are true soulmates and this this their story of how they were broken and put right, even when it looked like everything and everyone was against them. Zaan has always loved Lexi. Will he now be able to have her love like he wants or will something keep her away like before? Lexi has always loved Zaan and has fought to be with him. Will this time work for them or will past miscommunication and mistakes be used against them ?
This is a moving, emotional, swoony rollercoaster ride of a read. I can't wait for more in this new series Sidewinders:Generations by Kat Mizera.
My Rating: 4.5 stars ********
This story has everything: 2nd chance romance, heartbreak, drama, passion, angst, deep emotions, feels and romance.
This is Zaan and Lexi's story..they are true soulmates and this this their story of how they were broken and put right, even when it looked like everything and everyone was against them. Zaan has always loved Lexi. Will he now be able to have her love like he wants or will something keep her away like before? Lexi has always loved Zaan and has fought to be with him. Will this time work for them or will past miscommunication and mistakes be used against them ?
This is a moving, emotional, swoony rollercoaster ride of a read. I can't wait for more in this new series Sidewinders:Generations by Kat Mizera.
My Rating: 4.5 stars ********
June 14, 2020
This was an amazing story of second chance romance. I’m not quite sure what to say about this book. I liked it but it wasn’t one of my favorite the characters we a little off to me, but I’m guessing that’s how Kat wanted it to be. The characters were at odds in an off again on again relationship. I wasn’t happy at how Lexi kept getting taken advantage of and wouldn’t let anyone help her out because of her mother’s overbearing. Zaan was trying so hard and kept being pushed away broke my heart. I was very happy in the end when they got their act together and fixed what was between them. I can’t wait for more from Kat.
June 2, 2020
Zaan & Lexi Story was a long time coming and complete perfection! Elizabeth @ Carolina Chic’s Read
I have been awaiting this book what seems like forever! We have had tidbits and a sweet starter story to their start as a couple falling in love with each other. These two characters have been there for each other at a very young age. They have grown into their relationship but most importantly their love is deep. I cried and laughed, while falling in love myself. I really enjoyed seeing them rekindle what they had and start over to have a beautiful lasting love! Zaan & Lexi are one of my favorite couples that Kat Mizera has written. Strong couple to start the Sidewinders Generations series!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for a beautiful love!
For all the Sidewinders Fans... there is plenty of the characters from the first series so you don’t miss them too much... it’s just enough to keep you happy. I personally loved how Zaan went back to get advice from Jamie, Toli and the owner as well as other friends on the team. Great tie in to extend the team brand as a whole!
I have been awaiting this book what seems like forever! We have had tidbits and a sweet starter story to their start as a couple falling in love with each other. These two characters have been there for each other at a very young age. They have grown into their relationship but most importantly their love is deep. I cried and laughed, while falling in love myself. I really enjoyed seeing them rekindle what they had and start over to have a beautiful lasting love! Zaan & Lexi are one of my favorite couples that Kat Mizera has written. Strong couple to start the Sidewinders Generations series!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for a beautiful love!
For all the Sidewinders Fans... there is plenty of the characters from the first series so you don’t miss them too much... it’s just enough to keep you happy. I personally loved how Zaan went back to get advice from Jamie, Toli and the owner as well as other friends on the team. Great tie in to extend the team brand as a whole!
June 10, 2020
Kat Mizera is a new author to me. I love sports romances, particularly ones based around hockey. I liked Kat’s writing style and the plot had a good base, but it fell a bit flat for me.
The story has a great premise. Lexi and Zaan meet in a prior book as part of the Sidewinders series. You don’t need to read the older books, as Zaan gives you a brief intro to their relationship in the opening chapters.
Lexi is a tough girl. The story starts when she is in her late teens. She’s already beaten breast cancer, but finds herself on tour with a toxic group of girls. She and Zaan are in a long distance relationship as he’s an NHL player for Lexi’s Dad’s old team. The prologue takes us up to a traumatic event for Lexi’s pop band. The book then really takes off as the story picks up three years later. Lexi is still on tour with the toxic girl band, but their antics are getting unbelievably worse. Lexi happens to see a notification that Zaan’s team is in the same city as they are, and she makes a split second decision to get off the tour bus and go back home with Zaan. (Trust me, this was a good decision)
During this time Zaan has been playing hockey for the Sidewinders this whole time. Zaan has a huge heart and really seems to really love Lexi.
The bulk of the plot is the two young lovers trying to figure out how to make two very demanding careers work for them while having a relationship. As I read, things just felt off and a little flat. Zaan and Lexi kept circling around the same issues, which would be normal for a couple, but each time the “tough conversation” came up either one of them would push it off due to career needs or they’d be trying to fit it into small periods of time. When they did discuss it, their point of views never changed and compromises where never offered by either party.
I didn’t like the tone the male side of the story from Zaan or the teammates took. They kept referring to Zaan “letting” Lexi go or “letting” her find her way. Zaan himself even repeatedly says he’s “letting” Lexi have her career. The male characters never took her career seriously and were presented as being focused on Zaan’s career being the more important one.
Additionally, at one point Lexi is accused of “using” Zaan whenever life gets “too hard” for her. While there is brief mention of Zaan’s playing suffering throughout the run of the book, it’s never really dug into, and it seems to end when a coach gives him a better spot on the line with seasoned players? Then it magically dissipates and Zaan is fine. I would have liked equal focus given to both their careers rather than a he vs she plot. Especially as the main idea seems to be about finding balance and respect for each other.
At the climax of the book, after the characters having what appears to be a massive crisis and a tipping point for their relationship, Zaan has a chat with Lexi’s Dad and suddenly does a 180 on how he’s viewing their relationship. Then we lead into this crazy rushed ending with everything being forgiven and big excitement for everyone...
Honestly the way the story ended is what really soured me on this book. I felt that just when the characters were possibly making headway towards communication everything was turned on it’s head. The ending didn’t do the body of the story justice. Honestly, the ending really disappointed and angered me. If the ending was what the author was aiming for all along, the characters should have had more growth. They came off as self involved young kids who didn’t want to work together yet had this big happy ending.
I think this book showed good promise. I believe that the author can write well. This just wasn’t the book for me.
The story has a great premise. Lexi and Zaan meet in a prior book as part of the Sidewinders series. You don’t need to read the older books, as Zaan gives you a brief intro to their relationship in the opening chapters.
Lexi is a tough girl. The story starts when she is in her late teens. She’s already beaten breast cancer, but finds herself on tour with a toxic group of girls. She and Zaan are in a long distance relationship as he’s an NHL player for Lexi’s Dad’s old team. The prologue takes us up to a traumatic event for Lexi’s pop band. The book then really takes off as the story picks up three years later. Lexi is still on tour with the toxic girl band, but their antics are getting unbelievably worse. Lexi happens to see a notification that Zaan’s team is in the same city as they are, and she makes a split second decision to get off the tour bus and go back home with Zaan. (Trust me, this was a good decision)
During this time Zaan has been playing hockey for the Sidewinders this whole time. Zaan has a huge heart and really seems to really love Lexi.
The bulk of the plot is the two young lovers trying to figure out how to make two very demanding careers work for them while having a relationship. As I read, things just felt off and a little flat. Zaan and Lexi kept circling around the same issues, which would be normal for a couple, but each time the “tough conversation” came up either one of them would push it off due to career needs or they’d be trying to fit it into small periods of time. When they did discuss it, their point of views never changed and compromises where never offered by either party.
I didn’t like the tone the male side of the story from Zaan or the teammates took. They kept referring to Zaan “letting” Lexi go or “letting” her find her way. Zaan himself even repeatedly says he’s “letting” Lexi have her career. The male characters never took her career seriously and were presented as being focused on Zaan’s career being the more important one.
Additionally, at one point Lexi is accused of “using” Zaan whenever life gets “too hard” for her. While there is brief mention of Zaan’s playing suffering throughout the run of the book, it’s never really dug into, and it seems to end when a coach gives him a better spot on the line with seasoned players? Then it magically dissipates and Zaan is fine. I would have liked equal focus given to both their careers rather than a he vs she plot. Especially as the main idea seems to be about finding balance and respect for each other.
At the climax of the book, after the characters having what appears to be a massive crisis and a tipping point for their relationship, Zaan has a chat with Lexi’s Dad and suddenly does a 180 on how he’s viewing their relationship. Then we lead into this crazy rushed ending with everything being forgiven and big excitement for everyone...
Honestly the way the story ended is what really soured me on this book. I felt that just when the characters were possibly making headway towards communication everything was turned on it’s head. The ending didn’t do the body of the story justice. Honestly, the ending really disappointed and angered me. If the ending was what the author was aiming for all along, the characters should have had more growth. They came off as self involved young kids who didn’t want to work together yet had this big happy ending.
I think this book showed good promise. I believe that the author can write well. This just wasn’t the book for me.
October 26, 2022
I didn't like the female lead. I've been done with her since a little more than halfway into the book. I could give this 1 star because of her, and I really wanted to, but the male lead was such a nice guy, so 2 stars it is. So she has her reasons for being a self-rightous sensitive snowflake when with her boyfriend. That doesn't make me like her any better. Because of her past, it's like the more she loves someone, the more she wants to prove herself to the point that she takes any suggestion of material help as a great offense and an attempt to manipulate her into a caged bird. To me, Zaan was the one making most of the effort into making the relationship work even if Lexi tries to justify that she does put effort by putting up with his career. She has Zaan so wrapped around her finger. She comes to Zaan when she feels down and drained, but once she's gotten back up enough to be able to take on her problems, she is triggered by his attempts to help her deal with problems even though she's unreserved in asking help from her friends. She doesn't even think to consider that maybe her past affected her so much that it made her overreact. Instead, it's always his fault, he should be the one to adjust and apologize.
This was essentially just a rant on how much I hate her lolol. This was the most frustrated that I've ever been in a long while.
This was essentially just a rant on how much I hate her lolol. This was the most frustrated that I've ever been in a long while.
January 16, 2024
I never thought I’d root for a couple in a romance book to not end up together… but in this book, I did. I think I was more sick of them having the same argument over and over and over again.
This book also included a bunch of characters, which made it confusing. I might have also not realized it was part of a series or something… but would have appreciated more of a heads up anyway. I felt like all the characters had a strange backstory too which was very briefly explained… sometimes followed by the characters themselves saying that they don’t understand how it works for them but glad they are happy. Kind of felt like this book was written to try to get you to read other books by this author in the way that so many characters were introduced.
Also, why did it seem like every few characters were related to or were royalty?? How many queens can live in Las Vegas?? Lol.
And don’t even get me started on the ending.
This book also included a bunch of characters, which made it confusing. I might have also not realized it was part of a series or something… but would have appreciated more of a heads up anyway. I felt like all the characters had a strange backstory too which was very briefly explained… sometimes followed by the characters themselves saying that they don’t understand how it works for them but glad they are happy. Kind of felt like this book was written to try to get you to read other books by this author in the way that so many characters were introduced.
Also, why did it seem like every few characters were related to or were royalty?? How many queens can live in Las Vegas?? Lol.
And don’t even get me started on the ending.
December 3, 2022
Frustrating couple
The issues keeping these two apart made me root against them. I kept reading to see if it would get better. But it didn’t. Kat has written much better books. Skip this one.
The issues keeping these two apart made me root against them. I kept reading to see if it would get better. But it didn’t. Kat has written much better books. Skip this one.
Want to read
June 18, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (8/11/2022)! 🎁
June 10, 2020
I've enjoyed Ms. Mizera's previous Sidewinders stories and looked forward to this second chance romance of former young loves, especially after seeing the groundwork laid between these two in a previously published novella. Despite some issues with the heroine I found this a satisfying read with yet another delectable hero...in a long line of other wonderful heroes. It's a nice start that has me counting down the days until we revisit this second generation of players.
Zaan Hagen's been making a name for himself in the hockey world, sacrificing his love for a young woman with her own dreams, to get where he is today. Though he's tried to keep their romance going, the long weeks on the road have kept them apart and has left their HEA in doubt. Despite whatever rockiness their relationship is going through Zaan would still do anything she asked of him and that is what fuels this story and kept me on edge every step of the way. Zaan's a wonderful hero, sweet, sexy, and he's matured since he and Lexi first came together all those years ago. He seems self-assured when it comes to being on the ice, but in matters of the heart he's called on past players for their help. He endeared himself to me from the start, wrapped me up in his good guy haze as he was supportive of Lexi and always put her first in acts both subtle and overt.
Lexi Rousseau had dreams of her own when she and Zaan got together, big dreams that came true for better or worst. While her singing career has taken her to the top it's also jeopardized her HEA with Zaan. Long weeks on the road and a traumatic past has left her with scars both inside and out, scars that have tainted her view of love and put her future with Zaan on thin ice. Another health scare, bullying from her band, and frustration over her music future clearly weigh on her and it has her reaching out to the man who's always been there for her in hopes that he can make everything right. This is part of what frustrated me about her, she tended to think of herself first and counted on Zaan's love to get his help when she needed it. Throughout this story the focus was on her and I was left wanting to see more of Zaan as he was an all-around good guy. That's not to say that I wasn't impressed by her place in the rock world because I was. She overcame a lot to get where she is, overcame less than perfect parents, as well as overcoming cancer, and I ached for her dreams becoming toxic because of the power of others. Through it all I was rooting for her and Zaan to find their way back to each other and cheered them on through each high and low.
Though this wasn't a perfect series starter it was a satisfying one thanks to a delicious hero with a heart of gold. The heroine was tough, put through the emotional wringer quite often, but always had a strong support with the dependable Zaan by her side and it was a solid foundation that kept this story going. I enjoyed Ms. Mizera's balance of hockey, with the rockstar world, as it kept me glued to the action and it has me looking forward to what comes next!
Zaan Hagen's been making a name for himself in the hockey world, sacrificing his love for a young woman with her own dreams, to get where he is today. Though he's tried to keep their romance going, the long weeks on the road have kept them apart and has left their HEA in doubt. Despite whatever rockiness their relationship is going through Zaan would still do anything she asked of him and that is what fuels this story and kept me on edge every step of the way. Zaan's a wonderful hero, sweet, sexy, and he's matured since he and Lexi first came together all those years ago. He seems self-assured when it comes to being on the ice, but in matters of the heart he's called on past players for their help. He endeared himself to me from the start, wrapped me up in his good guy haze as he was supportive of Lexi and always put her first in acts both subtle and overt.
Lexi Rousseau had dreams of her own when she and Zaan got together, big dreams that came true for better or worst. While her singing career has taken her to the top it's also jeopardized her HEA with Zaan. Long weeks on the road and a traumatic past has left her with scars both inside and out, scars that have tainted her view of love and put her future with Zaan on thin ice. Another health scare, bullying from her band, and frustration over her music future clearly weigh on her and it has her reaching out to the man who's always been there for her in hopes that he can make everything right. This is part of what frustrated me about her, she tended to think of herself first and counted on Zaan's love to get his help when she needed it. Throughout this story the focus was on her and I was left wanting to see more of Zaan as he was an all-around good guy. That's not to say that I wasn't impressed by her place in the rock world because I was. She overcame a lot to get where she is, overcame less than perfect parents, as well as overcoming cancer, and I ached for her dreams becoming toxic because of the power of others. Through it all I was rooting for her and Zaan to find their way back to each other and cheered them on through each high and low.
Though this wasn't a perfect series starter it was a satisfying one thanks to a delicious hero with a heart of gold. The heroine was tough, put through the emotional wringer quite often, but always had a strong support with the dependable Zaan by her side and it was a solid foundation that kept this story going. I enjoyed Ms. Mizera's balance of hockey, with the rockstar world, as it kept me glued to the action and it has me looking forward to what comes next!
June 18, 2020
Zaan and Lexi’s story began four years ago. And, though they are still in love, Zaan ended things so that Lexi would be free to follow her dreams.
Lexi is floundering professionally and emotionally, though. She hates the girl group she is fronting as lead singer and is tired of the constant bullying she faces at their hands. When she discovers that her current tour stop is in the same city as the Sidewinders, she turns to Zaan for help.
Still so much in love, it’s easy to fall back in to one another. But, the same problems that existed before their breakup still exist. Professional demands, opposite schedules, Lexi’s fear of being controlled and Zaan’s fear of being left behind are still very much between them and their happy ever after. Can they find their way through the issues that seem to be insurmountable or are they doomed to be off again, but this time permanently?
Zaan was an extremely emotional story. It really tackled some hard hitting issues such as bullying and even couples dealing with work life demands and responsibilities. I appreciated that Kat Mizera made it clear that even though they loved each other deeply, relationships are hard and take a lot of effort to work. It wasn’t just an easy slide back in to each other, but a hard fought battle through a variety of landmines tossed at them.
Fans of Kat Mizera will adore Casey Hart in this book as well as all of the Sidewinders from prior books. And, FYI, this book will set your kindle on fire. This couple is as hot as can be. The scene at Club Inferno . . . have your fan ready because it may be one of the hottest things I have ever read!
4.5 stars for this angsty romance that combines the worlds of pro hockey and rock music, sweet romance and fiery hot passion and explores young love becoming oh so much more now that Zaan and Lexi are all grown up.
Lexi is floundering professionally and emotionally, though. She hates the girl group she is fronting as lead singer and is tired of the constant bullying she faces at their hands. When she discovers that her current tour stop is in the same city as the Sidewinders, she turns to Zaan for help.
Still so much in love, it’s easy to fall back in to one another. But, the same problems that existed before their breakup still exist. Professional demands, opposite schedules, Lexi’s fear of being controlled and Zaan’s fear of being left behind are still very much between them and their happy ever after. Can they find their way through the issues that seem to be insurmountable or are they doomed to be off again, but this time permanently?
Zaan was an extremely emotional story. It really tackled some hard hitting issues such as bullying and even couples dealing with work life demands and responsibilities. I appreciated that Kat Mizera made it clear that even though they loved each other deeply, relationships are hard and take a lot of effort to work. It wasn’t just an easy slide back in to each other, but a hard fought battle through a variety of landmines tossed at them.
Fans of Kat Mizera will adore Casey Hart in this book as well as all of the Sidewinders from prior books. And, FYI, this book will set your kindle on fire. This couple is as hot as can be. The scene at Club Inferno . . . have your fan ready because it may be one of the hottest things I have ever read!
4.5 stars for this angsty romance that combines the worlds of pro hockey and rock music, sweet romance and fiery hot passion and explores young love becoming oh so much more now that Zaan and Lexi are all grown up.
June 21, 2020
I would rate this a 3.5. While I enjoyed the book, I had issues with the characters. Zaan and Lexi had always loved one another, but her singing career tore them apart. Now, years later, Zaan seems hesitant to accept that Lexi will still need to leave to go on tour. It’s part of her career. It seemed a little hypocritical for him to be upset about it when his hockey career takes him all over the country for up to nine months of the year.
Lexi comes across as very selfish. Everything seemed to be all about her and what she wanted. She doesn’t seem to take Zaan’s concerns into account, and she refuses to compromise. She also refuses Zaan’s offer to help her, simply because she doesn’t want anyone to help her since her mother had been overbearing. He only wanted what was best for her and was willing to talk it out, but when he said or did something she didn’t like, she shut him out. Lexi definitely wasn’t one of my favorite characters.
I was happy when they finally got their acts together, but I would have enjoyed the book more if both characters weren’t so stubborn and had been willing to compromise. Still, I liked the concept of the book and how it played out. I thought it was a good start to the Sidewinders Generations series and can’t wait to see what will happen next.
**I received an ARC; a review was optional**
Lexi comes across as very selfish. Everything seemed to be all about her and what she wanted. She doesn’t seem to take Zaan’s concerns into account, and she refuses to compromise. She also refuses Zaan’s offer to help her, simply because she doesn’t want anyone to help her since her mother had been overbearing. He only wanted what was best for her and was willing to talk it out, but when he said or did something she didn’t like, she shut him out. Lexi definitely wasn’t one of my favorite characters.
I was happy when they finally got their acts together, but I would have enjoyed the book more if both characters weren’t so stubborn and had been willing to compromise. Still, I liked the concept of the book and how it played out. I thought it was a good start to the Sidewinders Generations series and can’t wait to see what will happen next.
**I received an ARC; a review was optional**
January 11, 2023
Zaan is book one in the Sidewinders:Generations series. The entire series is based around sports / hockey romance. This particular book is a second chance romance trope.
We meet Norwegian hockey player Zaan and our female MC Lexi whom is a singer. Lexi was Zaan's first love, but so is hockey... and he never thought he'd have to choose. Until he did. Lexi's dreams came true when she was lucky enough to be in a famous pop group and pursue her singing ddreams / career. But with that dream, she had to sacrifice her love Zaan.
Later down the line, Zaan and Lexi cross paths again. They have a second chance to try their romance again, but will it work with them both being crazy busy with their careers? It will take a LOT of work, clearly. I feel like in most romance books, it's the woman trying the hardest to make things work while the male is too busy, but in this book, I feel like Zaan tried and put way more effort into this relationship than Lexi did. It often felt like Lexi was pushing Zaan away at times or not truly seeing all of his effort and love.
This was a good, solid read. I'm definitely going to be reading book two!
We meet Norwegian hockey player Zaan and our female MC Lexi whom is a singer. Lexi was Zaan's first love, but so is hockey... and he never thought he'd have to choose. Until he did. Lexi's dreams came true when she was lucky enough to be in a famous pop group and pursue her singing ddreams / career. But with that dream, she had to sacrifice her love Zaan.
Later down the line, Zaan and Lexi cross paths again. They have a second chance to try their romance again, but will it work with them both being crazy busy with their careers? It will take a LOT of work, clearly. I feel like in most romance books, it's the woman trying the hardest to make things work while the male is too busy, but in this book, I feel like Zaan tried and put way more effort into this relationship than Lexi did. It often felt like Lexi was pushing Zaan away at times or not truly seeing all of his effort and love.
This was a good, solid read. I'm definitely going to be reading book two!
June 13, 2020
Kat draws you in from the beginning and you have to keep going as Zaan and Lexi story keeps you hooked. Zaan and Lexi when they were younger they were together as a couple and split up when Lexi joined a band Special Kay and being on the road meant it was too hard to maintain a relationship. But they still kept in touch as friends. One night Lexi has enough of being bullied by the other members in the band. When the band starts pulling into Fort Lauderdale she decides to bail when she remembers the Sockeyes who her dad coaches are in town for a game. S she packs a bag and meets up where they're playing only her dad didn't travel with the team as he's home sick with the flu. She meets up with Zaan at the stadium and he meets up with her. She wants to catch a ride home with the team and he tells her it's not allowed. She manages to talk the head coach into allowing her to travel with the team as her circumstances are so dire.
Lexi, after all she has been through with some health issues and the stress of being bullied by the band plus the implications of her leaving the middle of a tour doesn't want to listen to any advice Zaan has to give her. Sometimes you just wanted to shout at her to listen to his good advice we could see it why couldn't she. Zaan was so sweet and adorable and would do anything for her but she didn't always see it. I received an arc copy to do an honest review for NNBB. I loved this read and although this is part of a series its still able to be read as a stand alone.
Lexi, after all she has been through with some health issues and the stress of being bullied by the band plus the implications of her leaving the middle of a tour doesn't want to listen to any advice Zaan has to give her. Sometimes you just wanted to shout at her to listen to his good advice we could see it why couldn't she. Zaan was so sweet and adorable and would do anything for her but she didn't always see it. I received an arc copy to do an honest review for NNBB. I loved this read and although this is part of a series its still able to be read as a stand alone.
June 9, 2020
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the story of Rob's daughter Lexi and her 1st real boyfriend, Zaan's romance. Rob and Lexi's story begins in his story Rob which if you get the first Sidewinder boxset, you will read and in that story, Rob and Lexi meet Mack, who ends up helping Lexi when she is 16 and fighting Breast Cancer.
Then Lexi and Zaan meet at age 19ish/20 and he is her first boyfriend after the breast cancer. This is told in the Sidewinder Forever analogy. This story I never read, so this is what I think I missed.
Lexi is very into music and her and Zaan are very much in love but she gets the chance to become a rock star and she does but her and Zaan end up broken up. The story starts as they have been broken up for 18 months and the rock group has gone VERY bad and she finds that Zaan's team is in the same town she is and so she makes her escape back to Vegas with Zaan and the team and so starts their 2nd chance at love story.
This is not a story of a second chance at love, this is more of a complicated story of falling in love, growing up and facing your future and following your heart, even if the road you have to travel is filled with vipers, contracts and twists along the way. Its about two young people who have lots of love but also a very complicated past and here and now and how they both have to learn and grow and learn to compromise and face their mistakes and move into the future. The author did a wonderful job with this story. I just wish that Lexi and Zaan's start and novella was included in the beginning of this story because I really wanted to read it before I started this book.
This is the story of Rob's daughter Lexi and her 1st real boyfriend, Zaan's romance. Rob and Lexi's story begins in his story Rob which if you get the first Sidewinder boxset, you will read and in that story, Rob and Lexi meet Mack, who ends up helping Lexi when she is 16 and fighting Breast Cancer.
Then Lexi and Zaan meet at age 19ish/20 and he is her first boyfriend after the breast cancer. This is told in the Sidewinder Forever analogy. This story I never read, so this is what I think I missed.
Lexi is very into music and her and Zaan are very much in love but she gets the chance to become a rock star and she does but her and Zaan end up broken up. The story starts as they have been broken up for 18 months and the rock group has gone VERY bad and she finds that Zaan's team is in the same town she is and so she makes her escape back to Vegas with Zaan and the team and so starts their 2nd chance at love story.
This is not a story of a second chance at love, this is more of a complicated story of falling in love, growing up and facing your future and following your heart, even if the road you have to travel is filled with vipers, contracts and twists along the way. Its about two young people who have lots of love but also a very complicated past and here and now and how they both have to learn and grow and learn to compromise and face their mistakes and move into the future. The author did a wonderful job with this story. I just wish that Lexi and Zaan's start and novella was included in the beginning of this story because I really wanted to read it before I started this book.
June 15, 2020
The wait is over!
Sometimes there are times when reader finds a book and just knows that they are about to embark on an incredible journey. That was the case when we were first introduced to Zaan Hagen and Lexi Rousseau in The Sidewinder’s Siren in Kat Mizera’s Sidewinders: Ever After (Las Vegas Sidewinders Book 12). In Zaan, the next generation of Sidewinders, their story continues. Timing was never on Zaan’s and Lexi’s side and we follow them through their poignant and often heartbreaking journey together and towards their won self-discovery. This book with make you cry, get angry, leave you smiling, feel defeated and overjoyed with love but it is a journey that you want to see until the very end. The characters are sensational and the chemistry between Zaan and Lexi is off-the-charts good! It is also so great to see how/where some of the original characters are and what they are doing. There is something for everyone and an absolute must-read book. Another incredible start to this new spin-off series!!!
Sometimes there are times when reader finds a book and just knows that they are about to embark on an incredible journey. That was the case when we were first introduced to Zaan Hagen and Lexi Rousseau in The Sidewinder’s Siren in Kat Mizera’s Sidewinders: Ever After (Las Vegas Sidewinders Book 12). In Zaan, the next generation of Sidewinders, their story continues. Timing was never on Zaan’s and Lexi’s side and we follow them through their poignant and often heartbreaking journey together and towards their won self-discovery. This book with make you cry, get angry, leave you smiling, feel defeated and overjoyed with love but it is a journey that you want to see until the very end. The characters are sensational and the chemistry between Zaan and Lexi is off-the-charts good! It is also so great to see how/where some of the original characters are and what they are doing. There is something for everyone and an absolute must-read book. Another incredible start to this new spin-off series!!!
June 11, 2020
I have been waiting for Zaan and Lexie's story since getting a taste of their story in Sidewinders Ever After. Zaan Hagen is a star hockey player for the Las Vegas Sidewinders. Zaan is extremely good looking, loyal, great teammate, better friend, and lost his heart to his soul mate, Lexie Rousseau, at first sight. Lexie Rousseu is a strong, intelligent, and very stubborn girl who beat breast cancer as a teenager whose singer career exploded with one of the hottest pop groups in the world. Lexie reaches out to Zaan when she can't take touring with the other girls in her group anymore. Zaan and Lexie still love each other and jump back into their relationship while Lexie deals with the fallout from walking away from the music tour. Will Lexie have to go back out on tour? Can Lexie learn to let Zaan in and trust that he has her best interests at heart? Will Lexie and Zaan be able to compromise when it comes to their careers and their relationship? Will Lexie and Zaan let old insecurities and miscommunication end their time together? I love Kat Mizera. Zaan is a great book with fantastic characters who make you laugh, swoon, and scream in frustration. Zaan is great start to the Sidewinders: Generations series. I would highly recommend getting Zaan and the books in her Las Vegas Sidewinders series. I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest review.
June 20, 2020
Reading this, Zaan and Lexi are meant to be but they both had a lot of growing to do.
The plot and promise of this story were amazing and I enjoyed the journey so much.
Following their love story was consuming and heartbreaking at times, but I could tell that they would find their way over the many obstacles they faced to a HEA .
I recommend this romance.
Hockey, music, celebrity, second chance,
June 9, 2020
A highly emotional reunion of first loves! With the first book in her Sidewinders: Generations spin-off series Kat Mizera brings her readers an emotional delve into the life of stardom. The characters are attention grabbing, the emotion is rich and the passion is oh so yummy. I feel like there were some holes here, in particular if the reader didn't read the start of their story in an earlier anthology, but overall it was powerful and richly satisfying.
Zaan Hagen is perfection. He's down to earth, he's loyal and he's just self-assured enough to make everything look easy. He's loved Lexi since the day he set eyes on her, but life on the road isn't easy. This second chance at making it work seems like a gift ... will they end up throwing it all away?
Lexi Rousseau is feisty, strong and easy to like even though parts of her are selfish. Her gumption to go for what she wants in life is what makes her stand out in the crowd, but her weakness has always been Zaan. She would be on top of the world happy if they could just get their schedules to meld this time.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a hockey romance with lots of emotion and a rocky road to happily ever after. I'm looking forward to more in the series.
Zaan Hagen is perfection. He's down to earth, he's loyal and he's just self-assured enough to make everything look easy. He's loved Lexi since the day he set eyes on her, but life on the road isn't easy. This second chance at making it work seems like a gift ... will they end up throwing it all away?
Lexi Rousseau is feisty, strong and easy to like even though parts of her are selfish. Her gumption to go for what she wants in life is what makes her stand out in the crowd, but her weakness has always been Zaan. She would be on top of the world happy if they could just get their schedules to meld this time.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a hockey romance with lots of emotion and a rocky road to happily ever after. I'm looking forward to more in the series.
June 9, 2020
Zaan is a beautiful story about love and second chances. Zaan and Lexi were young and in love, but their careers tore them apart. Now, they are thrown together again and they can’t resist the sparks flowing between them.
Zaan is a professional hockey player and Lexi is a pop star. So their lives are very busy and they are never in one place for very long. In the past, the long distance hurt their relationship, but they have always cared for each other. They both have to learn to balance having a relationship and their careers.
It is easy to like Zaan and Lexi and they make a great couple. They are both caring and loving people and I was impressed with their strong bond. I wanted everything to work out for them and I was cheering them on, but they had some issues that they had to work through.
I found it interesting to get a behind the scenes look at the entertainment world and what it is like to be a famous pop star. This story also deals with breast cancer and it’s emotional aftermath. I thoroughly enjoyed this smoothly written story with characters that are easy to relate to and like.
Zaan is a professional hockey player and Lexi is a pop star. So their lives are very busy and they are never in one place for very long. In the past, the long distance hurt their relationship, but they have always cared for each other. They both have to learn to balance having a relationship and their careers.
It is easy to like Zaan and Lexi and they make a great couple. They are both caring and loving people and I was impressed with their strong bond. I wanted everything to work out for them and I was cheering them on, but they had some issues that they had to work through.
I found it interesting to get a behind the scenes look at the entertainment world and what it is like to be a famous pop star. This story also deals with breast cancer and it’s emotional aftermath. I thoroughly enjoyed this smoothly written story with characters that are easy to relate to and like.
June 15, 2020
Zaan and Lexi met during a tough time in Lexi's life and fell in love but sometimes love isn't enough. They were heading in too completely different directions and so decided it was better to split from each other.
Despite this, Lewis knew that when she hit rock bottom she could call Zaan for help.
Great start to the Generations series. Zaan is such a great guy and it was obvious, even from the short story where we first met them, that Zaan and Lexi belong together xx
Despite this, Lewis knew that when she hit rock bottom she could call Zaan for help.
Great start to the Generations series. Zaan is such a great guy and it was obvious, even from the short story where we first met them, that Zaan and Lexi belong together xx
June 9, 2020
Zaan is the beginning of the next generation of Sidewinders and I am here for it.
Zaan and Lexi loved each other with everything they had but it wasn't enough. Her music dreams and his hockey got in the way, so they went their separate ways. However, the love they have for each other. Fast forward a bit and Lexi wants to get away from her bandmates and Zaan is back by her side. This is their second chance, can they make it?
I loved Zaan and the way he loved Lexi. I struggled with Lexi at times as she is very stubborn. She has been through a lot so I guess in a way she earned the right to be that way. I wish she had spent more time listening to Zaan instead of reacting. However, that does not take away from the story and the love that I felt between the two of them.
Zaan and Lexi's story was emotional and I enjoyed the ride. It was also great that some of my favorite Sidewinders showed up in Zaan and Lexi's story.
Zaan and Lexi loved each other with everything they had but it wasn't enough. Her music dreams and his hockey got in the way, so they went their separate ways. However, the love they have for each other. Fast forward a bit and Lexi wants to get away from her bandmates and Zaan is back by her side. This is their second chance, can they make it?
I loved Zaan and the way he loved Lexi. I struggled with Lexi at times as she is very stubborn. She has been through a lot so I guess in a way she earned the right to be that way. I wish she had spent more time listening to Zaan instead of reacting. However, that does not take away from the story and the love that I felt between the two of them.
Zaan and Lexi's story was emotional and I enjoyed the ride. It was also great that some of my favorite Sidewinders showed up in Zaan and Lexi's story.
June 9, 2020
Where to start?! I loved Zaan. The moment he stepped up to help Lexi out of a bind, no questions asked, I practically swooned. It was clear they were meant to be, but just couldn't get the timing right. Lexi was a tougher pill for me to swallow. Yes, she's a cancer survivor, her mother has done a number on her, and she's been screwed over by being stuck in a contract with abusive bandmates. She's clearly having a hard time, but I felt like every time Zaan even thought of helping she got defensive. He constantly took the blame, but never really did anything wrong. It got a little frustrating that out of his teammates and Lexi's friends no one really saw his side, even though I felt like screaming into my kindle. That being said, communication from both of them was a little lacking. Zaan's patience is what saved their relationship, and Lexi finally admitting she messed up. I was definitely relieved when they got their HEA.
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