Changes on Ice
by Kaje Harper
Rusty Dolan tries to think of himself as lucky. When his folks declared him dead to them for being gay, he’d already turned eighteen, his hockey gear was in his truck, and NHL star player Scott Edison lived a dozen miles down the road. Which meant instead of crashing his life, Rusty had a place to stay and a goal to chase. At the end of summer, his old pickup wheezed over the mountains without dying, and Scott’s coaching helped Rusty earn a spot on the Eugene Gryphons team.
Now, halfway into the season, he’s playing his best developmental-league hockey and checking out the Oregon gay scene, which has a lot more options than small-town Kansas. Sadly, it has more douchebags too, and when one of them latches onto Rusty, he panics. NHLer Roger LaCroix is also a friend, of sorts. Rusty calls Cross for help, and the veteran defenseman shows up big time. Which does not help Rusty’s long-time crush on him.
Cross knows his worth to the Rafters as a Norris-trophy-winning player, but that’s about the only thing he’s certain of. Hockey is his whole life. He got dumped by his longtime girlfriend a few years back, and wasn’t as sad about it as he expected. He’s decided he’s probably demisexual, and he and Willow just never reached his comfort zone.
But now there’s Rusty. After the mess of the past summer, Cross wants to help a deserving young player get his shot. As a man who hates creeps, he has no hesitation posing as Rusty’s boyfriend to fend off a predatory ex. Problem is, Cross kind of likes being around Rusty, giving coaching tips and taking care of him. Except who is Cross, at thirty, to have some kind of identity crisis at the expense of a hot, young, up-and-coming player? He and Rusty really should stick to being friends. It’s the only safe answer.
Changes on Ice is an M/M, age-gap, slow burn, asexual-self-discovery sports romance, related to the first books in the series but with two new main characters.
Content warning for grief, stalking.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Kaje Harper's Changes on Ice is a compelling addition to the sports romance genre, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of hockey, this novel deftly combines the adrenaline of the sport with the tender intricacies of personal growth and romance.
The story centers around Rusty Dolan, a young hockey player who finds himself at a crossroads after being disowned by his family for being gay. Harper crafts Rusty's character with a deft hand, portraying him as a resilient and determined individual who, despite the odds, remains focused on his dreams. His journey from small-town Kansas to the more liberal environment of Oregon is not just a geographical shift but a metaphorical one, representing his quest for acceptance and belonging. The author does an excellent job of illustrating Rusty's internal struggles and his gradual evolution as he navigates the complexities of his new life.
In contrast, we have Roger LaCroix, or Cross, a seasoned NHL player grappling with his own identity. Cross's character is a study in contrasts—confident on the ice, yet uncertain in his personal life. His self-identification as demisexual adds a layer of depth to his character, offering a refreshing perspective on sexuality that is often underrepresented in romance novels. Harper's portrayal of Cross's introspection and his eventual acceptance of his feelings for Rusty is both realistic and heartwarming.
The dynamic between Rusty and Cross is the heart of the novel. Their relationship is a slow burn, characterized by mutual respect and a deepening emotional connection. Harper skillfully avoids the pitfalls of many age-gap romances by focusing on the emotional maturity of both characters rather than their chronological ages. The chemistry between Rusty and Cross is palpable, and their interactions are filled with genuine warmth and humor. The author’s decision to have Cross pose as Rusty’s boyfriend to ward off a predatory ex is a clever plot device that not only advances the romance but also highlights themes of protection and trust.
One of the standout aspects of Changes on Ice is its exploration of identity and self-discovery. Both Rusty and Cross are on personal journeys, and Harper handles their respective arcs with sensitivity and insight. The novel delves into the challenges of coming to terms with one's sexuality and the courage it takes to live authentically. The theme of self-discovery is further enriched by the inclusion of secondary characters who offer diverse perspectives and experiences, adding depth to the narrative.
Harper's writing is both engaging and evocative, capturing the intensity of hockey games and the quiet moments of introspection with equal skill. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, allowing for character development without sacrificing the momentum of the plot. The author’s attention to detail, particularly in the depiction of hockey, adds authenticity to the story and will appeal to sports enthusiasts and romance readers alike.
In terms of content warnings, the novel addresses issues of grief and stalking, which are handled with care and contribute to the emotional depth of the story. Harper does not shy away from the darker aspects of her characters' experiences, but rather uses them to underscore the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Comparatively, Changes on Ice stands out in the sports romance genre for its thoughtful exploration of asexuality and demisexuality. While other authors, such as Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy, have also tackled themes of identity and romance in sports settings, Harper’s focus on these specific aspects of sexuality offers a unique and valuable perspective. The novel’s emphasis on emotional connection over physical attraction is a refreshing departure from more conventional romance narratives.
Overall, Changes on Ice is a beautifully crafted novel that combines the excitement of sports with a heartfelt exploration of identity and love. Kaje Harper has created a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that resonate long after the final page is turned. This book is a must-read for fans of sports romance and anyone interested in stories of self-discovery and personal growth.
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