Key Takeaways
1. Rival Hockey Stars, Secret Lovers: A Past Revealed
What they don’t know is how much deeper our relationship went during that time.
Hidden college romance. Stephen McKinley (Mac) and Chance Kellerman are rival NHL wingers with a shared, secret history. In college, they were roommates and teammates, constantly competing but also developing a deep, hidden connection. This rivalry intensified after college when they landed on opposing professional teams.
More than just rivals. Their college years involved more than just competition; they shared a complex, intimate relationship that went beyond friendship. This history, unknown to their current teammates, adds layers to their on-ice animosity and off-ice tension. Their past dynamic was intense and formative for both men.
Unresolved feelings linger. Despite years of only interacting through physical altercations on the ice, the unresolved feelings and history between Mac and Chance remain potent. Their encounters are charged with unspoken emotions, hinting at the depth of their past connection and the secrets they keep.
2. Life Intervenes: Tragedy and Sacrifice
When I got the call about Allie’s accident, I dropped out of school and moved to New Jersey to be with the kids.
Abrupt departure. Presley, a college student involved with both Mac and Chance, suddenly disappeared from their lives without explanation. This abrupt departure left both men heartbroken, confused, and ultimately drove a wedge between them, contributing to their later rivalry.
Family responsibility. Presley's disappearance was triggered by a family tragedy: the death of her sister, Allie. As designated legal guardian, Presley immediately left college to care for her niece and nephew, Avery and Alyssa, sacrificing her own dreams and carefree youth.
Selfless choice. Presley chose to shoulder the immense responsibility of raising two grieving children alone, believing she couldn't burden Mac and Chance as they were on the cusp of their NHL careers. She prioritized their futures over her own needs and their relationship, leading to years of silent struggle and missed connection.
3. A Second Chance: Reconnecting After Years Apart
It’s like the universe threw us together again, after all this time.
Unexpected reunion. Years later, Mac and Chance spot Presley at a hockey game on the KissCam, bringing their past crashing into their present. This chance encounter reveals Presley's new life as a guardian and reignites the complex feelings they all shared.
Rebuilding connections. Seeing Presley again prompts both Mac and Chance to reach out, despite the years of silence and unresolved hurt. They visit her, meet her niece and nephew, and begin to bridge the gap created by her sudden departure and their subsequent estrangement.
Lingering questions. The reunion is filled with questions about the past and uncertainty about the future. Presley explains her reasons for leaving, offering some closure, but the dynamic between the three of them is now complicated by her responsibilities and their individual lives.
4. More Than Friends: Rekindling a Unique Connection
My boys are back.
Familiar dynamic resurfaces. Despite the years and changed circumstances, the unique connection between Mac, Chance, and Presley quickly becomes apparent. They fall back into a comfortable, intimate dynamic, supporting Presley and bonding with her niece and nephew.
Polyamorous history. Their college relationship was polyamorous, with all three involved intimately. This history informs their present interactions, as the physical and emotional pull between them remains strong, hinting at the possibility of rekindling their unique bond.
Mutual support. Mac and Chance offer Presley much-needed support, helping with the kids, household tasks, and emotional burdens. Their presence eases her stress and brings joy back into her life, demonstrating their commitment extends beyond romantic interest to genuine care for her and her family.
5. Facing Inner Demons: Trauma, Identity, and Vulnerability
Being around Avery has made me realize that I don’t want to feel ashamed of who I am anymore.
Chance's hidden struggle. Chance carries deep trauma from his abusive, homophobic father and the loss of his mother. This led him to keep his bisexuality hidden for years, even from those closest to him, fearing judgment and rejection.
Avery's influence. Helping Avery navigate bullying at school becomes a catalyst for Chance. Seeing Avery's struggle with self-acceptance and external cruelty inspires Chance to confront his own fears and embrace his true identity, leading to a pivotal decision to come out.
Vulnerability and healing. Chance's journey towards self-acceptance is difficult but necessary. His willingness to be vulnerable, particularly with Presley and Mac, is a significant step in healing past wounds and building a future based on honesty and authenticity.
6. Found Family: Integrating Lives and Loves
Seeing the proud look on Avery’s brings hot tears to my eyes.
Blending families. Mac and Chance quickly integrate into Presley's life, forming bonds with Avery and Alyssa. They attend games, help with homework, teach skills (like fighting and cooking), and provide positive male role models, becoming a supportive presence the kids lacked.
Mutual benefit. The relationship benefits everyone. Mac and Chance find purpose and emotional fulfillment in caring for Presley and the kids, filling a void left by their own pasts. The kids gain stability, confidence, and affection, while Presley receives much-needed help and emotional support.
A new kind of family. Their unconventional dynamic begins to resemble a chosen family. They support each other's dreams (Avery's art, Presley's non-profit), share meals, and navigate challenges together, demonstrating that family is defined by love and support, not traditional structures.
7. External Pressure: Judgment, Media, and Bullying
There’s always going to be a Molly.
Societal judgment. Their unconventional relationship faces immediate external scrutiny. A judgmental parent, Molly, discovers their polyamorous relationship through social media and attempts to get Presley fired from her school librarian job, rallying other parents in protest.
Media frenzy. The story quickly escalates, attracting media attention and paparazzi. Headlines sensationalize their relationship, particularly focusing on Mac and Chance as rival athletes in a relationship, forcing Chance out of the closet publicly before he was fully ready.
Impact on the kids. The external pressure directly affects Avery and Alyssa. Avery gets into a fight defending Presley against hateful comments, and the kids are exposed to the media circus and negative judgment, highlighting Presley's fears about protecting them.
8. A Test of Bonds: Crisis and Conflict
My best friend is in a coma, all thanks to my boyfriend and his teammate.
Alexander's injury. A major crisis erupts when Mac's best friend and team captain, Alexander, is severely injured during a game due to an illegal hit involving Chance's teammate, Ivanov, and Chance himself. Alexander is left in a coma, sending shockwaves through their lives.
Rift between Mac and Chance. The incident causes a deep, painful rift between Mac and Chance. Mac, consumed by fear and anger over his best friend's condition, blames Chance for his involvement in the play, accusing him of intentional malice and bringing his past trauma into the argument.
Presley caught in the middle. Presley is heartbroken by the conflict between the two men she loves. She tries to mediate and support both, but the intensity of Mac's pain and Chance's hurt makes reconciliation difficult, threatening to unravel the family they were building.
9. Forgiveness and Understanding: Healing Old Wounds
You tossed me aside like I didn’t matter.
Confronting hurt. Alexander's eventual recovery and memory of the play (hearing Chance try to warn him) reveal the truth: Chance's involvement was not malicious. This opens the door for Mac and Chance to finally confront the deep-seated hurt and resentment that had festered for years, stemming from Presley's departure and their subsequent estrangement.
Raw honesty. Their confrontation is painful but necessary, bringing years of unspoken accusations and misunderstandings to the surface. They acknowledge the pain they caused each other, particularly Mac's hurtful words comparing Chance to his father and Chance's feeling of being abandoned.
Choosing reconciliation. Despite the depth of their wounds, they choose to fight for their connection. They apologize, express their love, and commit to working through their issues, recognizing that their bond is worth the effort and that they are stronger together.
10. Choosing Forever: Love, Acceptance, and the Future
Forever finally starts now.
Commitment to the relationship. Emerging from crisis and conflict, Mac, Chance, and Presley make a conscious decision to fully commit to their polyamorous relationship. Chance's public coming out and Mac's unwavering support solidify their bond and their readiness to face the world together.
Building a life together. They decide to navigate the challenges of their unconventional family structure, external judgment, and media attention as a united front. They prioritize their love for each other and the kids, choosing happiness and authenticity over hiding or conforming to societal expectations.
A future of acceptance. Inspired by their experiences and the support they received, Presley, with the help of friends, begins planning a non-profit organization, "Inclusive Hearts," to promote acceptance and diversity for children and families in their community. Their personal journey becomes a catalyst for broader social change.
Last updated:
FAQ
What is Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata about?
- Central story: Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata is a contemporary romance centered on Presley, Chance, and Stephen, who share a complex polyamorous relationship rooted in their college past and rekindled years later.
- Themes explored: The novel delves into love, grief, identity, acceptance, and the challenges of blending unconventional relationships with family responsibilities.
- Setting: The story is set against the backdrop of professional hockey, with vivid depictions of both the sports world and everyday family life.
- Standalone and series: While part of the East Coast series, Ice Rivals can be read as a standalone novel.
Why should I read Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata?
- Unique relationship dynamics: The book offers an authentic portrayal of a polyamorous relationship, exploring emotional depth, communication, and societal judgment.
- Diverse representation: It features LGBTQ+ characters, addresses bisexuality, and normalizes non-traditional families, making it a standout in contemporary romance.
- Emotional resonance: Readers will find themes of grief, healing, and personal growth, making the story both heartfelt and relatable.
- Engaging sports backdrop: The integration of professional hockey adds excitement, tension, and a unique setting for character development.
Who are the main characters in Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata and what are their relationships?
- Presley King: A school librarian and guardian to her niece and nephew, Presley is the emotional anchor, balancing motherhood and her desires.
- Chance Kellerman: A professional hockey player with a troubled, abusive past, struggling to embrace his bisexuality and open up emotionally.
- Stephen McKinley: Another professional hockey player, charismatic and openly bisexual, deeply in love with both Presley and Chance.
- Their dynamic: The three share a polyamorous relationship, facing internal challenges and external judgment while striving to create a loving, blended family.
How does Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata explore polyamorous relationships?
- Authentic representation: The novel presents polyamory as a valid, loving relationship structure, focusing on emotional depth, mutual respect, and realistic challenges.
- Societal judgment: The characters face secrecy, fear, and external scrutiny, especially concerning Presley’s children and her job.
- Communication and growth: The story highlights the importance of honesty, trust, and patience in navigating jealousy and insecurities.
- Integration with family: The book explores how polyamory intersects with parenting and community, showing both support and prejudice.
What role does professional hockey play in Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata?
- Central to characters’ lives: Hockey is not just a backdrop but a driving force in the characters’ identities, relationships, and conflicts.
- Plot catalyst: Key events, such as a traumatic on-ice accident involving a friend, drive emotional drama and character growth.
- Symbolism: The sport mirrors themes of rivalry, teamwork, and personal struggle, paralleling the trio’s emotional journeys.
- Community and support: The hockey team serves as both a support network and a source of external conflict.
How does Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata address themes of sexuality and identity?
- Bisexuality and coming out: The book explores the challenges of being bisexual, especially for Chance, who fears judgment due to past trauma.
- Contrast in openness: Stephen is openly bisexual, providing a supportive contrast to Chance’s secrecy and internal conflict.
- Self-acceptance journey: The narrative emphasizes the courage required to live authentically and the impact of acceptance on personal growth.
- Societal and family pressures: The characters confront homophobia, bullying, and the fear of public exposure, especially in the sports world.
How does Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata portray grief, loss, and healing?
- Presley’s guardianship: Presley becomes the legal guardian of her late sister’s children, shaping her emotional struggles and decisions.
- Trauma and recovery: The characters deal with past abuse, the loss of loved ones, and a traumatic hockey accident that leaves a friend in a coma.
- Support systems: Healing is depicted through friendship, chosen family, and community, highlighting resilience and hope.
- Activism as healing: Presley’s creation of the nonprofit Inclusive Hearts is both a response to grief and a step toward community healing.
What is the significance of the “three circles” tattoo in Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata?
- Symbol of unity: The three interlocking circles represent the enduring bond between Presley, Stephen, and Chance.
- Physical manifestation: Each character gets a tattoo or necklace featuring the circles, marking their commitment and connection.
- Emotional meaning: The circles symbolize that their relationship is forever, with no ending, despite challenges.
- Recurring motif: The tattoo serves as a reminder of their promise to each other and the strength of their chosen family.
How does Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata depict family and parenting in a non-traditional relationship?
- Blended family dynamics: Presley, with the support of Stephen and Chance, raises her niece and nephew, navigating the complexities of a polyamorous family.
- Protecting children: The story addresses the challenges of shielding children from bullying and societal prejudice due to their family structure.
- Love over norms: The narrative emphasizes that love and stability define family, not traditional roles or appearances.
- Community involvement: Presley’s advocacy and creation of Inclusive Hearts reflect her commitment to fostering acceptance for all families.
What is Inclusive Hearts and its role in Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata?
- Nonprofit organization: Inclusive Hearts is founded by Presley to educate children and families about LGBTQ+ issues and promote acceptance.
- Community impact: The organization hosts inclusive events, creating safe spaces for both children and queer community members.
- Response to bigotry: Inclusive Hearts is a direct answer to local discrimination and bullying, especially from antagonistic characters.
- Symbol of hope: The nonprofit represents Presley’s growth and the characters’ commitment to making a positive difference.
What are the key conflicts in Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata?
- Internal struggles: Chance battles with coming out and accepting his sexuality, while Presley grapples with guilt and the pressures of guardianship.
- Interpersonal tension: The trio must navigate jealousy, trust, and communication to rebuild their relationship after years apart.
- External obstacles: Bullying, societal judgment, and public scrutiny as professional athletes and guardians create ongoing challenges.
- Resolution through growth: The characters’ willingness to forgive, support, and stand up for each other drives the story’s resolution.
What are the best quotes from Ice Rivals by Kristen Granata and what do they mean?
- “A circle is forever. There was never going to be an ending for us.” – Symbolizes the trio’s enduring commitment and the permanence of their bond.
- “They can try to take away our rights. They can try to take away our voices. But they’ll never be able to take away the love in our hearts.” – Highlights resilience and the power of love in the face of oppression.
- “Be who you are, and fuck anyone who doesn’t accept that.” – Emphasizes self-acceptance and defiance against societal judgment.
- “Love doesn’t have a limit, and it looks different for everyone.” – Encourages openness to diverse forms of love, including polyamory and LGBTQ+ relationships.
- “We’re a family, and families stick together. Family is forever.” – Reinforces the theme of chosen family and loyalty despite external challenges.
Review Summary
Ice Rivals is a highly anticipated MMF hockey romance that concludes the East Coast series. Readers praise the emotional depth, character growth, and sensitive handling of LGBTQ+ themes. The story follows Stephen, Chance, and Presley as they reunite after years apart, navigating their complex relationship while caring for Presley's niece and nephew. Fans appreciate the balance of steamy scenes, heartwarming moments, and social commentary. While some found pacing issues, most readers were captivated by the chemistry between characters and the satisfying conclusion to the series.
East Coast Series
Similar Books
Download PDF
Download EPUB
.epub digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.
