On Thin Ice
by Rebecca Norinne
One last season. One final secret.
I’ve spent fifteen years in the NHL hiding who I really am. One more season—head down, mouth shut, lies firmly in place—and I can retire with my secret intact. Then Stryker Bell crashes into my life.
He’s got hands of gold, a mouth made for sin, and a body that moves like a promise. Ten years younger, he’s cocky, reckless, and everything I shouldn’t want. My problem. My obsession. My undoing.
We clash from the start. But no matter how hard I try to keep my distance, Bell doesn’t back off. He crowds my space. Smirks like he knows exactly what I’m thinking. Every glance feels like foreplay. Every brush of contact, a dare.
And after a brutal loss on the road, I break. One raw, desperate moment, and I’ve got him pinned to the wall, my mouth on his like I’ve been starving for a taste.
Now I’m playing the most dangerous game of my career—falling for the rookie who makes me feel more alive than I ever have, while battling trauma I’ve buried so deep I almost believed it was gone.
I want him, but those old demons don’t let go easy. They’ve got their hands around my throat, whispering every lie I’ve ever believed about what it would cost to be open.
And Bell? He refuses to be anyone’s dirty little secret.
If I don’t fight for him now, I won’t just retire in the closet—I’ll lose the only man who’s ever made me want to step out into the light.
He was my idol. Now I’m his secret.
I had Ethan Harrison’s hockey poster taped to my bedroom wall growing up. Now he’s my teammate—and the most infuriating, closed-off man I’ve ever met. All clenched jaws, surly grunts, and brooding stares.
And yet, something about the way he watches me when he thinks no one’s looking makes me want to break him wide open. Crack that perfect composure.
Every lingering glance. Every loaded silence. Every time he pulls away like he’s scared of what will happen if he lets me in—it feels like it’s building to something inevitable.
So when he finally backs me against the wall and kisses me like he’s starving? I know I’ve been right all along. The tension, the looks, the armor he hides behind—it was never just in my head.
He might bark out orders on the ice, but behind closed doors? He’s the one who begs for me to touch him, make him come undone. Who gasps my name, and needs it rough, slow, and real.
I want all of Ethan, but if he won’t choose me, I’ll have no choice but to walk away. I didn’t fight like hell to stand in the light just to be someone’s dirty little secret.
.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Rebecca Norinne’s On Thin Ice is a compelling exploration of identity, love, and the courage it takes to live authentically. Set against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of professional hockey, this novel deftly combines the thrill of sports with the emotional depth of a poignant romance. It’s a story that not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on the societal pressures that force individuals to hide their true selves.
The narrative centers around Ethan Harrison, a seasoned NHL player who has spent his entire career concealing his true identity. As he approaches the end of his career, Ethan is determined to retire without revealing his secret. However, his carefully constructed facade begins to crumble when Stryker Bell, a young and audacious rookie, enters his life. The chemistry between Ethan and Stryker is electric, and Norinne captures their dynamic with a deft hand, creating a tension that is both palpable and irresistible.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character development. Ethan is a complex protagonist, grappling with the internal conflict between his public persona and his private desires. His struggle is portrayed with sensitivity and nuance, making him a deeply relatable character. The trauma he has buried is not just a plot device but a genuine exploration of the emotional scars that come with living a lie. Norinne does not shy away from depicting the psychological toll of Ethan’s secret, and this honesty adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative.
Stryker Bell, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air. His youthful exuberance and confidence contrast sharply with Ethan’s guarded demeanor, creating a dynamic that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Stryker’s refusal to be anyone’s “dirty little secret” is a powerful statement about self-worth and the importance of living openly. His character serves as a catalyst for Ethan’s transformation, and their relationship is a testament to the healing power of love.
The themes of On Thin Ice are both timely and timeless. At its core, the novel is about the struggle for authenticity in a world that often demands conformity. Norinne explores the fear of rejection and the courage it takes to defy societal expectations. The novel also delves into the concept of hero worship and the complexities of idolizing someone who is, ultimately, just as flawed and human as anyone else. This theme is particularly resonant in the context of sports, where athletes are often placed on pedestals and expected to maintain a certain image.
Norinne’s writing is both evocative and accessible, drawing readers into the world of professional hockey with vivid descriptions and a keen eye for detail. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of intense emotion interspersed with lighter, more humorous scenes. This balance ensures that the novel remains engaging from start to finish, and the chemistry between Ethan and Stryker keeps the tension simmering throughout.
In comparison to other works in the genre, On Thin Ice stands out for its depth and authenticity. While many sports romances focus primarily on the physical aspects of the relationship, Norinne delves deeper, exploring the emotional and psychological dimensions of her characters. This approach is reminiscent of Sarina Bowen’s Him series, which also tackles themes of identity and self-acceptance within the context of a sports romance. However, Norinne’s novel is distinguished by its focus on the internal struggles of a character nearing the end of his career, adding a layer of poignancy to the narrative.
Overall, On Thin Ice is a beautifully crafted novel that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a story about love, courage, and the journey to self-acceptance, told with honesty and heart. Rebecca Norinne has created a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for fans of romance and sports fiction alike. Whether you’re drawn in by the allure of the hockey world or the emotional depth of the characters, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
For those interested in exploring this captivating story further, you can find On Thin Ice on popular platforms like Amazon and Goodreads.
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