M.M. Phoenix's The Puck Contract is a delightful foray into the world of sports romance, blending the high-stakes drama of professional hockey with the tender exploration of identity and love. As the first book in the Melting Ice series, it sets a promising tone for what readers can expect from future installments. This novel is a low-angst, high-heat bi-awakening romance that can be enjoyed as a standalone, making it accessible to both new readers and seasoned fans of the genre.

At the heart of the story are two compelling protagonists: Groover, the only openly gay player on his hockey team, and Mateo, a financially struggling anthropology student. The premise is simple yet effective: Groover needs a fake boyfriend to manage his public image and secure a sponsorship deal, while Mateo needs money to cover his tuition. What begins as a business arrangement quickly spirals into something much more complex and emotionally charged.

One of the standout elements of The Puck Contract is its exploration of identity and self-discovery. Mateo's journey is particularly poignant as he grapples with his unexpected attraction to Groover. His late-night Google searches and internal debates about his sexuality are portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity, capturing the confusion and excitement of a bi-awakening. This aspect of the story is likely to resonate with readers who have experienced similar journeys of self-discovery.

Groover, on the other hand, is a character who is already comfortable with his identity but faces external pressures from the world around him. The fan fictions and public scrutiny he endures are a reflection of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the public eye. Phoenix handles these themes with care, offering a nuanced portrayal of the intersection between personal identity and public perception.

The chemistry between Groover and Mateo is electric, and their interactions are filled with both humor and heat. The "practice kisses" that start to feel too real are a clever narrative device, allowing the characters—and the readers—to explore the blurred lines between pretense and genuine emotion. Phoenix excels at building tension and anticipation, making the eventual romantic payoff all the more satisfying.

In terms of character development, both protagonists undergo significant growth over the course of the novel. Mateo's transformation from a financially desperate student to someone who is confident in his feelings and identity is particularly well-executed. Groover's journey is more subtle but equally impactful, as he learns to navigate the complexities of love and vulnerability in the public eye.

While the novel is primarily focused on the romance between Groover and Mateo, it also offers a glimpse into the world of professional hockey. The sports setting adds an exciting backdrop to the story, with the playoffs serving as a metaphor for the high-stakes nature of their relationship. Fans of sports romances will appreciate the attention to detail and the authentic portrayal of the hockey world.

Comparatively, The Puck Contract shares thematic similarities with other popular sports romances, such as Sarina Bowen's Him series and Rachel Reid's Game Changers series. Like these works, Phoenix's novel combines the thrill of sports with the emotional depth of a love story, creating a compelling narrative that appeals to a wide audience.

Overall, The Puck Contract is a captivating read that balances humor, heat, and heart. M.M. Phoenix has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a fresh take on the sports romance genre. Whether you're a fan of hockey, romance, or stories of self-discovery, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.

For those interested in exploring this engaging romance, The Puck Contract is available on major platforms like Amazon and Goodreads, where it has already garnered positive reviews from readers who appreciate its unique blend of romance and sports.