Thank you so much to NetGalley, A.L. Graziadei and Henry Holt & Co. 

"Icebreaker" is a YA novel that takes place in upstate New York during first year of college. Hockey is life for our main character Mickey James III. He is third generation hockey player with a lot of pressure on his shoulders to continue his family's legacy.  In true sports fashion, there is a rivalry but instead of the rivalry being against someone on another team, this time it is his own teammate, Jaysen Caulfield. The tension between these two would cause issues off the rink as well as on the rink. They are both eyeing for the top spot during the NHL draft and they are very vocal about. Things become complicated when they realize that their tension is not just about hockey but also about their feelings towards one another. 

I really enjoyed this book! Mickey is a very complex character and I love his growth throughout the book. We have this young athlete who feels the weight of being the son of a famous athlete that is also dealing with his insecurities, sexual identity and depression. Jaysen is a great juxtaposition to Mickey. He has a solid relationship with his family, he knows who he is, he knows his talents and has a plan for the future. Jaysen was also a refreshing character as he is queer, black and has an emo style (piercings, tattoos). You don't see that especially in the hockey world (at least from my minimal knowledge of hockey). 

The book ended kind of on a cliffhanger. I am not sure if this is going to be a series but I am ready for Mickey and Jaysen part two. 

If you are looking for the following: 

YA (college) – check
 LGTBQ rep – check
 Enemies to friends to lovers - check 
 Hockey – check
 Mental health - check 
 Family drama - check 

Congrats, on your first published book A.L. Graziadei!